First Nations artwork powers purposeful fashion collaboration
Monday, April 10, 2023
Blue Illusion has released a striking new collection of accessories with purpose.
The premium silk scarf and bag combination have been designed by Yorta Yorta/Juru artist, Shanai Kellett, with 7% of sales going to World Vision’s support of early childhood care development in First Nations communities.
Titled ‘Colours of Country’ and individually priced at $149.99, the design is beautifully inspired by Kellett’s connection to Boon Wurrung/Bunurong Country and celebrates the land, colour, flowers and wildlife that it is known for.
“‘Colours of Country’ captures the essence of the natural Australian landscape. The traditional symbols, dot work and contrasting colours, demonstrate the beauty of our country. I hope people feel the connection and join us in emphasising the importance of respecting First Nations Cultures and First Nations peoples everlasting connection to this sacred land,” said Kellet.
Like Kellett, World Vision Goodwill Ambassador and model, Samantha Harris, is passionate about raising awareness and empowering Indigenous Australians.
“My mother and I are incredibly proud of our First Nations heritage. It’s not only inspiring to see Shanai’s work come to life, but to model it alongside my mother is incredibly empowering, moving – and quite historic,” says Samantha.
“As the first female First Nations Goodwill Ambassador, I’m constantly heartened by the work World Vision does to in partnership with First Nations Elders and their communities. The support provides the tools needed to lead empowered lives, which includes traditions that have been passed down for tens of thousands of years,” added Samantha.
World Vision spokesperson, Sophia Romano, says the organisation’s work has a significant focus on children and youth wellbeing; partnering with 11 Indigenous communities in Western Australia and the Northern Territory to coordinate early childhood care development projects.
“World Vision has been working in, and supporting, First Nations communities for almost 50 years, with activity that is community-led and culturally informed.”
“Our primary purpose is to walk alongside communities and support their vision for solutions that benefit families and communities for the long term. This work can appear in various forms and is tailored according to each community’s traditions and contexts, through programs, advocacy, and more,” added Sophia.
Working in partnership since 1998, Blue Illusion and World Vision have provided financial support for the world’s most vulnerable children, families and communities, with stores across Australia promoting the sponsorship of children.
Donna Guest, co-founder of Blue Illusion says, “to this day, Blue Illusion has sponsored over 274 children through World Vision.”
Guest continues, “as an entrepreneur, I’ve always gravitated to supporting communities – it’s one of our three brand pillars at Blue Illusion. When World Vision approached us about this project, we couldn’t wait to get involved and work alongside Shanai, a very talented artist and advocate for First Nations communities.”
To find out more, or to purchase an item from the new collection to support First Nations communities, visit a local Blue Illusion store or head to the website: www.blueillusion.com.
Contact: Lucy Fogarty
email: lucy.fogarty@worldvision.com.au
High-res imagery: Here
Product details:
Colours of Country – 3 April 2023
- ●A20114.9132 Shanai Kellett Colours of Country Scarf RRP $149.99 AUD
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