arts

Indigenous artist Kerry Everett launches collaboration with Safestyle Eyewear

Phoebe Blogg
Phoebe Blogg Updated March 4, 2026 - 7.43am (AWST), first published July 21, 2025 at 2.35pm (AWST)

SafeStyle has unveiled their new Art Series V.2 safety eye-wear collection - featuring the work of Palawa artist Kerry Everett.

With proceeds to Lions Outback Vision, who improve access to quality eye health for Indigenous Western Australians in remote areas, each of the 8,000 limited edition pairs of SafeStyle x Kerry Everett glasses sold (with styles that retail between $30 and $70) will contribute $5 directly to Lions Outback Vision.

Founder Tim Lewis' personal connection with Lions was formed through Adele Sangster, a close family friend who works at the Lions Outback Vision hub in Broome providing eye care to Indigenous communities in WA's Kimberley region.

"Through conversations with Lions Outback Vision and hearing about the work Adele was doing, it became clear that this partnership could help bridge real gaps in eye care across remote communities. I'm proud of what we've built and incredibly grateful to help support such vital work," he said.

The new collection is also the second release in SafeStyle's 'Art Series', that continues SafeStyle's mission to blend cultural storytelling with social impact, following the success of the inaugural Art Series in 2023 (when SafeStyle release their first pair of art-inspired lenses, commissioning a work from Indigenous artist Francis Watson).

Indigenous artist Kerry Everett wearing glasses featured in the new SafeStyle Art Series V.2 collection. (Image: supplied)

Art Series V.2 Cruisers. (Image: supplied)

A Palawa woman from the Plangermairreenner clan in Tasmania's Ben Lomond tribal area, Everett's work has deep roots in her culture and community.

For this collaboration, SafeStyle commissioned Everett's 'Journey Through the Dreaming' to feature across the Art Series V.2 frames. The work symbolises the interconnectedness of land, water, sky, and spirit.

Everett says she hopes those who purchase and wear the glasses appreciate and feel the strength and beauty of First Nations culture.

"My artwork reflects my journey, my connection to culture, and the stories of my ancestors. To see it on something as practical and widely used as safety glasses - it's powerful," she said.

"It shows our culture belongs everywhere, not just in galleries or museums, but in the everyday. This partnership is about more than just art - it's about visibility and representation.

"I hope when mob see these glasses, they feel a sense of pride. And I hope others wearing them take a moment to appreciate the strength and beauty of our culture. It's my way of sharing who I am and honouring my community through my art."

One of the keepsake fabric pouches featuring Everett's artwork. (Image: supplied)

The Art Series V.2 frames are currently available in two styles, Fusions and Cruisers, with both styles shoppable as a black frame polarised lens or a clear frame lens. Both glasses meet AS/NZS 1337.1 safety standards and every Art Series pair comes in a beautiful, keepsake fabric pouch featuring Everett's artwork.

With only 8,000 pairs of the Art Series V.2 being produced, and not to be restocked, those interested in purchasing a pair of glasses from the new range are encouraged to do so sooner rather than later.

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National Indigenous Times

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