How would you describe ways that you give back / pay it forward in our community?
Founded in 2008, the Aboriginal Artists Project combines the fashion accessory designs of Catherine Manuell with the artworks of women artists from the very remote communities of Arnhem Land, the Utopia region of Central Australia, Iwantja Arts in Indulkana and now from Darwin as well.
Catherine has established a licensing set up with the artists. The women benefit directly from the production of every item made and retain copyright for their designs. They are paid ongoing royalties while the product stays in production.
The collection has now expanded to include many remote Aboriginal women artists within a variety of vibrant special development projects around Australia. The artists are very much enjoying being kept up to date with where their art pieces are being sold and how well they are being received!
What is your one-of-a-kindness story?
Catherine produces seasonal collections each year from fabrics sourced worldwide and all artists with designs included in the collections are paid a percentage of the sale price directly. Catherine Manuell Design also works hard to promote and introduce our artists and their wonderful work to an Australian-wide and a broad international tourist audience.
Can you share with us a story of how you care for country?
Catherine’s handbag and wallet designs are made from various materials, mostly, matt-laminated cotton, leather look pu or poly/cotton fabrics, all totally vegan! CMD’s designing process, prints, hats, scarves, cards, masks etc are created and made by Catherine and a small team in Australia. As there are no Australian makers for luggage etc, our luggage, handbags and most purses collections are made by a small, family team that we have become good friends with and originally set up creating with in Hong Kong over 20 years ago. With many positive visits over the years, and a long history of creating quality products together we continue to produce our small runs collection with them in a friendly and respectful working relationship.
Insta: @catherinemanuelldesign