The latest release from North, The Stone Country Collection, brings together the work of artists from West Arnhem Land and Kakadu, celebrating the unique artistic styles and stories historic to the region. Deriving from Bim (rock art), the artworks featured on these pieces explore themes of spiritual and ancestral beings from all represented artists’ homelands and Djang (Dreaming stories).
Artists Graham Rostron, Robert Namarnyilk, Aysha Alderson and Kabbindi White from Marrawuddi Arts and Culture, Gabriel Maralngurr from Injalak Arts, and artist Lorraine Kabbindi White of Stone Country Creations have lent their designs to The Stone Country Collection, communicating traditional painting methods through ochre and Rarrk (crosshatching), alongside pieces adorned with the contemporary ink methods of emerging artists.
While North is not an Aboriginal-owned business, they are governed by Indigenous and non-Indigenous board members, and work closely with artists and elders to ensure their collaborations are embarked upon in a respectful, ethical manner.
North funds the production of their collections through presale orders – which are open from now until August 17th – so make sure you get your orders in early to secure specific pieces in your size!
To celebrate The Stone Country Collection, we were lucky to chat with collaborating artist Alysha Alderson about the importance of art making, and the meaning behind her work with North.
Hey Alysha! Can you tell us about the work you have featured on North’s new collection? What is the story behind it?
The design that I have made is very close to my heart, Ngurrungurrudjba (Yellow Waters), is home for me and my family, the Murumburr Clan. We are the custodians for the Cooinda region in Kakadu National Park.
Ngurrungurrudjba is not only a tourist destination but is also a lifeline to us, we go out fishing and hunting which provides us with food all year around.
How does it feel to see your artwork on North clothing?
It’s really rewarding, and I’m honoured to be a part of the Stone Country Collection and have the opportunity to design something so close me. I feel really proud to be working alongside artists, Graham, Kabbindi, Gabriel and Robbie. Working at Marrawuddi I’m lucky enough to work alongside these artists and have seen the hard work that goes into creating these amazing artworks. Learning from these artists has given me the opportunity to learn more about my culture and our ancestors, which I’m really proud of.
What does art making mean to you?
When I get in the right headspace to create, making art is really therapeutic for me, because I feel like everything is blocked out. Something about it aye. I love doing the rivers and billabongs because it’s a provider for not only bininj (Aboriginal people) but for the animals and if we aren’t looking after country then bonj (it’s finished). I’m still experimenting with my artwork and different types of mediums, so I’m excited to see where my art takes men in the future.
Pre-order The Stone Country Collection from North here!
