How Kip&Co collaborated with the Bábbarra Women’s Centre in remote Arnhem Land to celebrate Indigenous artistry

It was two years in the making, but a recent collaboration between the Bábbarra Women’s Centre in remote Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory and Victorian-based homewares brand Kip&Co started selling out within hours of its release. 

The vibrant collection of bedding, tableware and accessories features eight unique designs by seven female artists from Bábbarra, which is located in the community of Maningrida and is an enterprise of the Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation.

The designs — created by Deborah Wurrkidj, Elizabeth Wullunmingu, Helen Lanyinwanga (deceased), Janet Marawarr, Jennifer Wurrkidj, Margot Gurawiliwili, and Raylene Bonson — tell the stories of their creator’s ancestors and their country, and have been transformed into quilt covers, sheets, tablecloths and aprons by Kip&Co, which has become known for its colourful aesthetic. 

Profits from the collaboration are shared equally between the artists and Kip&Co, and according to The Design Files, The Copyright Agency was involved from the start to ensure the process was ethical and the licensing of the designs followed best practice.

The result is a beautifully designed example of how local businesses can collaborate with, and celebrate, Indigenous artists. 

Artist Janet Marawarr with her artwork Kunkurra, 2015.