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Quandamooka designs find a new home in Magandjin

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published May 15, 2025 at 3.20pm (AWST)

Quandamooka artist Ms Delvene Cockatoo-Collins has announced she will officially open a new store in the Magandjin/Brisbane CBD next week, bringing her hand-printed fashion, art and homewares into the heart of the city.

The shop, located at 1/61 Edward Street, marks a significant step for Ms Collins, who previously operated her business on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) for a decade.

"We've just begun moving into our new store... a space dedicated to my art, fashion, handprinted homewares and locally made gifts," she told National Indigenous Times.

Delvene 'Cockatoo' Collins. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)

The opening is the realisation of a goal she has held since university, where she worked in the now-closed Queensland Aboriginal Creations store.

"I thought I'd love to be in here as well at some stage. That was 25, 30 years ago and I finally made it here into town."

She said the inspiration behind her work comes from her family and life on Country.

"My artwork comes from my mum, my grandmother and our lived experiences on the island and including objects."

Garments in-store. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)

She draws directly from traditional materials, including a more than 110-year-old woven basket made by her grandmother's grandmother.

Ms Collins said each piece in the store tells a story of place and kinship, including a fabric design that references the shimmer of salt and fresh water at low tide.

She hand dyes her fabrics using traditional Banksia dye and screen prints over the top, crafting garments, boleros, and accessories.

Offcuts are repurposed into earrings by her cousin, and jewellery is also made from seeds washed ashore after cyclone Alfred.

Her family plays a central role in the business, from studio work to legal support and framing.

"That trust and that love around me has enabled me to grow."

Inside the new store in the CBD. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)

The store also features a soundtrack by her son Sachém, incorporating shell, whale and mermaid sounds to reflect the island's stories.

Ms Collins hopes visitors will leave with more than a product.

"They get to talk to a family member or myself who's been involved in the making… something for them to take home with them as a memory."

She noted a rolling workshop program will launch after opening, with the store's displays changing regularly.

"If you come in in June, it's going to look very different in August."

The store is set to officially open some time next week once the finishing touches are finalised.

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National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.