*A warning to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that the following article contains the name of a deceased person.
Whether you work in fashion, art or the creative sphere itself, the chances of you having heard of the highly talented – and ever so humble – Ikuntji Artists is extremely high.
Situated in the in the community of Haasts Bluff (Ikuntji), Ikuntji Artists is a member-based, not-for-profit, Aboriginal Art Centre with a board of seven Indigenous directors – all of whom live and work locally.
Drawing their inspiration from their personal ngurra (country) and Tjukurrpa (Dreaming), the artists interpret ancestral stories by using traditional symbols, icons and motifs.
Having recently showcased their work at Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair's annual Country to Couture runway and Afterpay Australia Fashion Week, the Ikuntji Artists are in high demand this month.
Now stepping onto the New Zealand Fashion Week, Kahuria runway for the very first time – like several designers this year – Ikuntji Artists are proving that yes, even art centres have the power to be at the forefront of fashion.
Established in 1992 after a series of workshops with Melbourne artist Marina Strocchi, the art centre was actually initially set up to fulfil the role of a women's centre that provided services for elderly people as well as children within the community.
After starting off printing T-shirts, the artists grew to produce acrylic paintings on linen and handmade paper. This then quickly gained the attention of both Australian and international art critics.
In 2005, it was the incorporation of the art centre as Ikuntji Artists Aboriginal Corporation, that shifted the focus from a women's centre to an art centre.
Today Ikuntji Artists has eight key artists, who exhibit in Australia and internationally. They are represented in major collections across the globe.
Making history as the first-ever art centre to present at New Zealand Fashion Week, Ikuntji Artists New Zealand debut was a celebration of both milestones.
Opting to showcase a six-look edit from their Afterpay Australia Fashion Week presentation, saw the art centre put forward six exquisite looks inspired by Luritja culture and Tjukurrpa from renowned Aboriginal artists, including Maisie Jugadai, Ena Fly, Kumuntjai Nangala Lane, Walter Jugadai, Kumuntjai Napanangka Nolan, and Mavis Marks.
"We are honoured to see our designs and Tjukurrpa stories on the international stage in New Zealand," Ikuntji Artists chairperson Roseranna Larry said.
"As artists from a remote Aboriginal community, it makes us proud to participate in New Zealand Fashion Week."
By featuring the artworks of these esteemed Aboriginal artists on the runway, Ikuntji Artists aims to further bring attention to the intricate stories and traditions that are embedded within each wearable garment.
Renowned for their vibrant and diverse textile works, this New Zealand debut was of course, no different.
Brimming with lively colours and intricately printed patterns, the art centre's highly-anticipated runway was a refreshing pop of energy.
Design directed by creative director, celebrated stylist, cultural activist and proud Yorta Yorta, Gomeroi and Wiradjuri woman, Ana Keshan, saw Keshan oversee this collection's design process.
Keshan also worked closely with the makers to share each designer's personal Tjukurrpa with the world.
Drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture and rich heritage of the Aboriginal community, Ikuntji Artists' collection is a visual testament to the enduring connection between art and fashion
The collection's unique blend of Indigenous art and high fashion highlights the centre's commitment to preserving cultural heritage while fostering innovation.
Displaying yet another highly-regarded runway presentation, saw Ikuntji Art Centre explore the topic of wearable art, all whilst fostering a deeper connection to Indigenous art.
Fusing traditional art with contemporary fashion is what Ikuntji does best, and today in New Zealand that is precisely what they have done.
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