Proud Wirangu/Dieri/Kokatha/Mirning/Arabana artist Presten Warren has announced a collaboration with SA Power Network and Tesla for a unique commission.
SA Power Networks has commissioned Warren for the second time - the first commission was aligned with SA Power Networks Reconciliation Action Plan.
Warren's Reconciliation Action Plan artwork design has now been wrapped across the companies Hino trucks, as well as one of their Teslas - transforming the vehicles into a moving canvas of Traditional Owner stories.
Warren said the latest work with SA Power Networks and Tesla was another exciting opportunity to bring his art to life.
"The collaboration with SA Power Networks and Tesla was a unique and exciting opportunity to bring Aboriginal art into a modern, sustainable space. SA Power Networks had previously commissioned me for their Reconciliation Action Plan, creating a design that symbolised connection, community, and respect for Country," he said.
"Inspired by the impact of that piece, they decided to take it a step further by wrapping their Hino trucks with my artwork, then on one of their Teslas, transforming the vehicles into a moving canvas that shares Aboriginal storytelling with everyone who sees it.
"This opportunity came about through SA Power Networks' commitment to supporting Indigenous culture and creating more visible forms of cultural appreciation in their operations. It's a privilege to see my work traveling across South Australia on such an powerful platform."
Warren said his "Empowering South Australia" artwork featured on SA Power Networks' vehicles is "a visual representation of their Reconciliation Action Plan and commitment to supporting communities across the state".
"The central community symbol embodies SA Power Networks as a unified team, while the four outer communities reflect the broader South Australian community they serve," he told Style Up.
"To highlight SA Power Networks' role in powering the state, I've included lightning bolts and shades of blue to evoke strength and energy. The aura surrounding the symbols of people and footprints represents the empowerment that SA Power Networks provides, fostering connection and growth across diverse communities.
"To reflect South Australia's unique landscapes, I incorporated shades of green and brown, capturing the region's natural beauty. This artwork combines elements of power, unity, and respect, embodying SA Power Networks' ongoing commitment to supporting Indigenous culture and community."
Warren said he has noticed a positive shift in the increasing number of opportunities for Indigenous artists.
"I believe there's a significant and positive shift happening in the arts industry, where First Nations artists are increasingly given opportunities to collaborate with Australian brands and businesses. It's been encouraging to see more sectors recognising the value of incorporating Indigenous perspectives, not only in fashion but also in areas like corporate branding, community initiatives, and sustainability projects. This reflects a growing respect for Indigenous culture and an understanding of how much these collaborations can enrich Australian identity," he said.
"From my own experience, I've definitely seen an increase in opportunities to collaborate with organisations that genuinely want to honour and amplify Indigenous stories. Working with companies like SA Power Networks and BHP has shown me that many brands are committed to embedding cultural appreciation and respect into their work. It's more than just a trend; it's a growing movement to build meaningful relationships with First Nations artists, and that's something I'm proud to be a part of.
"The more Australian businesses integrate Indigenous art and storytelling, the stronger our cultural connections become, paving the way for a future where Indigenous art is recognised, respected, and valued as part of Australia's collective story."
Warren has been very busy the past few months working on several creative opportunities.
"I've been deeply involved in projects sharing Aboriginal art and culture in exciting new ways. I launched my 'Munda Wanna (Land & Sea)' exhibition at Jacob's Creek Cellar Door, where we celebrated connection to Country with over 50 guests attending opening night, and the collection selling out completely," he said.
"My work has also reached an international audience through a licensed jigsaw puzzle line in the U.S., and I've recently celebrated my 300th sold piece—marking a milestone in connecting art with people across Australia and beyond.
"On top of corporate and private commissions for clients like Bupa, Meriton and NDIS, one of my TikTok videos recently went viral, reaching almost half a million people and showing the powerful reach of social media in amplifying Aboriginal stories.
"Not only has my artwork been featured on a BHP truck that travels 365 days a year, they have also applied my art to concrete bollards which protect heritage sites (attached) and PPE uniforms. I always get people commenting on how they've seen my art driving down the highway.
"I'm also expanding my website to showcase digital artworks, prints, and phone cases, making it easier for people to explore and commission unique pieces that carry the essence of family, culture, and storytelling.And I've been working on a few top secret projects,"
For more fashion, beauty and lifestyle news subscribe for free to the Style Up newsletter.
