North launches Warlu to promote artist’s skill

North has launched its latest collection called Warlu featuring authentic garments designed by five Warlpiri artists. The new collection celebrates the partnership between the label and remote Indigenous skilled artists. The stories behind the art have been translated through the art of textiles.

North is an NGO charity that works alongside indigenous artists across the Northern Territory to help them engage in new skills while opening doors of creative opportunities for them.

Across the collection, the artist’s stories of their land, family and culture, is brought to life to be viewed by the Australian community. The proceeds received from sales are distributed among the artist’s community. The label facilitates projects that support innovation in textile design among artists.

The artists featured in the collection are Murdie Nampijinpa Morris, Hilda Nakamarra Rojers, Steven Jupurrurla Nelson, Flora Nakamarra Brown and Shanna Napanangka Williams, they all belong to the Yuendumu and Nyirripi communities situated in the Northern Territory.

The collection is a beautiful example of sustainability in terms of fashion as well as the community. Promoting craft and local skill only aids in the sustainability of fashion and the country as a whole.

The new collection features silk tops, dresses, linen pants, shirts, accessories and cushions, all hand-sewn in Melbourne. The aesthetic value of the collection is expressed through bold brush strokes and joyful colours drawing the connection between the artist’s connection to the Warlpiri land and people.

Each piece of the artwork reflects each individual artist’s Jukurrpa, commonly known as a Dreaming Story, and gives each garment a unique interpretation. The collection is available online for pre-orders.