Kip&Co is no stranger to artist collaborations, but their entirely female-led project with Bábbarra Women’s Centre is the first of its kind. Flying into Maningrida in a tiny plane from Darwin, Co-Founders Kate Heppell, Hayley Pannekoecke and Alex McCabe connected with the values and story of the Centre, governed by women for women.
“Spending time with the artists in the community was a really critical part of our collaboration journey. We were so excited to meet the amazing artists in person, and to deepen our understanding of the stories behind the artwork,” says Kate in an exclusive Q&A with marie claire.
The Centre fosters the creativity of its Indigenous artists, producing unique designs and hand-printed textiles that tell the story of their Arnhem Land and its ancestors. The artwork printed on bright orange bedspreads and aqua blue aprons share stories of crab-hunting in mangrove holes, wild flowers and woven pandanus mats, and the wubbjunj (a traditional canoe) that carried the people to Maningrida.
The first local Indigenous manager of Bábbarra Women’s Centre, Jessica Phillips, says the Bábbarra women “have long wanted to have their designs featured on a bed linen range,” adding that Kip&Co’s “responsible sourcing and sustainable practices” made them a “perfect fit” as a collaborative partner.
“We were moved by the history of the arts centre, founded as a safe haven for women, and by the spirit of the artists,” says Kip&Co’s Co-Founder Alex. “We believe this spirit has been captured in this beautifully designed range.”
Kate recalls the privilege of bringing her children to hear the Bábbarra women tell stories that had been passed down through generations for thousands of years. “It was so amazing to have [our children] hear these stories with us, and see them being brought to life on the screen printing tables of the Women’s Centre.” For Kate, the reward of this collaboration lies in raising awareness of Indigenous artists.
“I feel good Australia will see my design and know my story,” says Bábbarra artist Raylene Bonson. “The Bábbarra ladies are so strong. We have the strongest ladies at the women’s centre. We always work together and feel proud of our work here.”
Bábbarra and Kip&Co will divide all profits from the collaboration equally, with a best place agreement setting a benchmark for future collaborations.
Shop the Kip&Co x Bábbarra collection here.
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