Indigenous Australian fashion label Kirrikin will debut in India on October 28 with a runway show in Delhi. This event marks a “new chapter” in Australia-India creative collaboration, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s First Nations peoples.
The Australian High Commission, alongside Kirrikin and the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), organizes this landmark fashion showcase to highlight the artistry and craftsmanship of First Nations Australians.
Founded by Amanda Healy, a Wonnarua woman and social enterprise leader, Kirrikin transforms hand-painted First Nations artwork into elegant, contemporary luxury clothing. Designed in Australia and crafted in Noida, India, Kirrikin reflects the success of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), symbolizing the growing creative and commercial ties between the two nations.
The name “Kirrikin” derives from the Wonnarua language, meaning “Sunday’s best clothes.” This name connects to the brand’s mission to revitalize Indigenous languages while celebrating cultural identity through art and design.
Australian High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, emphasized the significance of this event: “It’s a powerful celebration of the creativity, resilience, and cultural richness of Australia’s First Nations peoples.” He noted, “Kirrikin’s journey exemplifies the strength of trade and cultural exchange under the Australia-India partnership, and we are proud to bring their designs to the Delhi runway in collaboration with FDCI.”
For Amanda Healy, this collaboration is a proud moment. She stated, “Bringing First Nations fashion, art, and storytelling to India is an honour.” This sentiment resonates throughout the initiative as a step towards greater awareness and appreciation of Indigenous art.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, highlighted the partnership’s potential to inject fresh perspectives into Indian fashion. “This event is a true meeting of cultures,” he remarked, celebrating the artistry and storytelling of Australian First Nations communities.
Support for such initiatives comes from organizations like the Centre for Australia-India Relations, which aims to promote First Nations businesses like Kirrikin to enhance trade and cultural exchange. Swati Dave, Chair of the Advisory Board, commented, “This showcase is a powerful way to share First Nations stories with Indian audiences through art and design.”
The evening will also feature traditional music and dance performances by First Nations artists, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to this historic showcase. This fusion of cultures reinforces the event’s goal of deepening understanding between Australia and India.
Kirrikin’s Indian debut not only represents fashion but also serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. It encourages greater recognition of indigenous narratives, proving that fashion can indeed act as a bridge between diverse cultures.
