fashion

Artist Peter Farmer and model Samantha Harris collaborate with Paul Carroll Shoes on new collection

Phoebe Blogg
Phoebe Blogg Published October 17, 2024 at 3.00pm (AWST)

Paul Carroll Shoes, a leading name in Australian comfort footwear, has announced the release of their limited-edition Klouds Cara Kard Sneaker.

This unique collaboration brings together the artistry of Noongar artist Peter Farmer and inspiring representation of inclusivity and empowerment through Dunghutti model Samantha Harris.

The collaboration with Paul Carroll Shoes (PCS) began when Sandra Tricoli, who had been working with Paul Carroll for a long time, suggested PSC connect with Farmer following his previous work on a limited-edition shoe for Jimmy Choo.

"She felt there was strong synergy between my art and the Paul Carroll brand," Farmer said.

"After meeting with John and Katherine Carroll, who own Paul Carroll, we discussed the company's 50-year journey and how I could translate that story into artwork.

"From there, I created a piece that reflects their business story, which was then incorporated into the design of their shoes.

"For me, as an artist, it's crucial that my art aligns with the client's values and conveys their narrative."

Limited-Edition Klouds Cara Kard Sneaker. (Image: Paul Carroll)

The Take a Walk in Our Shoes collection is an example of the growing number of Australian brands joining forces with First Nations creatives to showcase and celebrate their talent.

"I have certainly noticed a positive shift in brands wanting to collaborate, though there is still room for growth," Farmer told Style Up.

"Brands need more education about Indigenous art, but I believe there's strong commercial value in these partnerships.

"Having worked with major names like Jimmy Choo and Coldplay (on a limited-edition T-shirt that sold out at their Perth concert), it's clear to me that companies appreciate and see value in connecting with First Nations artists like myself.

"It's a powerful way for them to tell their stories through our art, and I've seen more brands aligning themselves with artists whose values resonate with theirs."

Farmer said he believes opportunities for First Nations artists are increasing, with more room for brands to collaborate with artists in the future.

Noongar artist Peter Farmer. (Image: Paul Carroll)

"The connection works when the artist's story resonates with the company's brand, creating mutual commercial value and uplifting both the artist and the company," he said.

"Taking such opportunities can lead to surprising and rewarding outcomes."

A trailblazer for inclusivity and authenticity, Samantha Harris has been named the face of this new collection, with her role exemplifying empowerment and authenticity, values that Paul Carroll Shoes holds dear.

Captured against the backdrop of the serene Kalamunda hills in Western Australia, the campaign's imagery is a homage to Australian heritage, celebrating the beauty of the land and the stories it holds.

The Klouds Cara Kard sneaker, designed in partnership with Farmer, features his 'Mountains' artwork, a symbol of the deep connection to Country and a reflection of the journey through life—past, present, and future.

Samantha Harris behind the scenes modelling the new collection. (Image: supplied)

Not only an artistic statement but also a marvel of comfort technology, the sneaker features the Klouds Kross Insole and Stratiform memory foam, ensuring unmatched all-day support.

Designed for orthotic-friendly wear, this collection combines style with functionality.

The Cara Kard name holds special significance, with 'Cara' a nod to the classic Klouds sneaker, while 'Kard' is derived from the Noongar word for "hills", celebrating the natural landscapes of Western Australia.

Each sneaker colour is named after iconic West Australian locations, such as Ningaloo Reef and Quairading Pink Lake, adding a sense of place to the design.

This collaboration with Farmer and Harris represents Paul Carroll's commitment to cultural significance, comfort, and inclusivity.

This limited-edition sneaker is more than just a piece of footwear—it's a journey of tradition, art, and community.

Samantha Harris modelling the new collection. (Image: supplied)

As part of the launch celebration, Paul Carroll Shoes invites customers to the Take a Walk in Our Shoes exhibition at Westfield Booragoon on October 25 and 26 from 10am to 3pm.

Customers will have the opportunity to me Peter Farmer in person, experience his live cultural performances and try on the Cara Kard sneaker in the exclusive 'Try Me' comfort area.

Additionally, customers will receive a special gift with every purchase of the Cara Kard, with event vouchers also available.

With bespoke packaging and a story card detailing the inspiration behind the design, this sneaker is a collector's piece that fuses fashion with cultural storytelling, community and craft.

The Limited-Edition Klouds Cara Kard Sneaker is available now, both in-store and online.

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National Indigenous Times

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