21/02/2023
Did you know, that even though Noongar Country is the biggest in Australia, it is virtually impossible to source commercial grade Noongar fabrics?
And this is why Karlup began.
When I was looking in the design market I could see fabrics featuring artwork from over East, & the Pilbara/Kimberley regions, but nothing local. We just felt a little bit behind here in Perth and also I saw many collaborations happening with artists from remote communities but little recognition of mob living in cities.
I wanted to change that.
I wanted to challenge this stereotypical view of Aboriginal people and introduce fabrics into the Perth market that were appropriate for use in Perth and connected to Noongar Country.
This range now includes wallpapers, rugs, & cushions sharing specifically Noongar art styles and will soon be expanding into a heavy commercial rated fabric for custom upholstery.
Because it's not just about bringing Aboriginal fabrics into a space for the sake of it, it's about showing a meaningful connection to Country and respecting the diversity within our First Nations.