'Journeys'

Kulani Kinis would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of this Country. We pay respects to all Elders who are still talking with us, those that are in the dreaming, and those that are emerging. Kulani acknowledges the ongoing spiritual relationship to Country and that is still as important today as it has always been.

Proud Barkindji woman, mumma and artist, Caitlyn Davies-Plummer of Dustin Koa Art lives, works and creates on Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia) She is also completing her Masters of Clinical Psychology and will be a practicing Psychologist, working with Aboriginal families very soon.

Caitlyn takes her inspiration from her connection to the Barkaa (river) and the land surrounding that area. Caitlyn paints intuitively and feels the presence of her ancestors every time she picks up the paintbrush. We are honoured and privileged to share her culture with our Kulani family.

Caity reached out to Kulani in hopes to connect and share her story, identity and culture. At the core of her art, she shares important stories, so after reading the ‘About Us’ section on their website, she felt an immediate connection and reached out right away. A special bond was quickly formed between the team of women and over the past 9 months have worked together to bring her beautiful story and journey to life.

So much love and work has gone into creating this collection and we have learnt so much along the way. From creating the artworks, making the swimwear, putting together magical photo shoots with amazing Aboriginal models and creatives - we are so happy with what we have been able to create together and we hope you fall in love with the Collection and Art as we have!

‘Journeys’ serves as a reminder that through the darkness there will always be light. Over every mountain is a new adventure, and even when things are really difficult, your connection to culture and the support of those you love will give you the strength to get through.

WHAT EACH SYMBOL MEANS

The campsites on the painting represent different journey points and important events in Caity's life. Some good and some hard, but all contributing to who she is today.

The mountains represent all the struggles Caity has overcome and how she continues to connect back to culture when things become difficult.

The suns represent a reminder that through the darkness there will always be light.

There are also many treasured hidden symbols throughout the painting; including a music symbol representing her papa; a mother and child, representing herself and her son and flowers that represent her grandmother. Through this collaboration, Caitlyn will be supporting a charity that sits close to her heart, The Stars Foundation. This Charity helps support Indigenous girls and young women to attend and remain engaged at school, complete Year 12 and move into full-time work or further study.