Having spent the past decade building a creative business that celebrates First Nations identity and community, proud Wiradjuri, Wotjiboluk, Nari Nari, Boon Wurrung and Wemba Wemba woman Kenita-Lee McCartney has a passion for both culture and creation.
Through art, fashion and functional design, McCartney is weaving her culture into the fabric of everyday life, from yoga mats and scarves to workshops and jewellery, the talented artist strives to blend art with purpose.
Her growing range of products includes fine art prints, woven pieces, blankets, scarves, yoga mats, weaving kits, dog collars and leads, lanyards, and cultural jewellery. Each piece carries a story inspired by her connection to Country, resilience and cultural pride.
One of McCartney's standout creations, the first Aboriginal flag yoga mat, has become a symbol of cultural strength and mindfulness. Her t-shirts, printed with affirmations such as "Your voice is your power" and "You are enough just as you are", reflect her advocacy for mental health and self-empowerment.
"My business journey began 10 years ago, when I was 25 and pregnant with my first child," she said.
"I'd always loved painting, but it wasn't until I became a mum that I started to see how creativity could support both my family and community."
Through her art, McCartney began expressing more of her cultural identity, guided by her belief that every Aboriginal person has a right to know and share their cultural practices.
Her journey from selling clothes in her spare room to becoming a respected artist and small business owner is a story of growth, resilience and passion.
Over the years, she has evolved from painting and jewellery-making to creating a full product line that connects people to culture in new and accessible ways.
"Every product I create carries meaning," she said.
"It's not just about what it looks like, it's about what it represents. I want people to feel proud of who they are and connected to culture in their everyday lives."
McCartney is also committed to sustainability and ethical production, ensuring her creative practices align with her values of respect for Country and community.
Beyond her products, she continues to share her knowledge through cultural workshops across Australia, teaching weaving, painting, and jewellery-making in schools, workplaces, and community settings.
Her online weaving community allows people across the country to learn and create together through video tutorials and shared storytelling.
"What started in a spare room has become something so much bigger," she said.
"I grew up in housing commission and never imagined I'd be doing this for a living. My art has helped me heal, and now I get to help others connect to culture in their own ways."
Her creative journey has also attracted attention from national brands, including a previous collaboration with Cadbury Roses.
Every element of McCartney's practice, from her workshops to her yoga mats, tells a story of culture, empowerment and purpose. Her mission is to share her heritage, inspire pride, and make culture part of daily life for everyone.
Her full product range and art are available online.
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