culture

Coles collaborates with First Nations artist to launch first ever NAIDOC Week homewares range

Maria Marouchtchak -

Coles supermarkets has unveiled a limited-edition homewares collection in collaboration with award-winning Wiradjuri artist Lani Balzan, set to hit shelves nationwide from June 25 to July 22 in celebration of NAIDOC Week.

Featuring Balzan's bespoke artwork, the 'Coming Together' collection, the First Nations artist told Style Up that with a background of working in reconciliation she was inspired to embed this theme within the range.

"I really wanted it to be a product that was for everyone and that could embrace our culture," she shared.

"Whether it's a candle or a diffuser or a drink bottle in their home, something that is part of everyday living."

The range is available nationwide, at all Coles stores. (Image: Supplied)

More than just another product launch, the collaboration seeks to make a long-term difference, with 50 cents from each item sold during the campaign going directly to Purple House.

Partnering with the Indigenous-owned and operated non-profit health service based in Alice Springs, over a number of years Coles has been working to support the organisation's mission of providing dialysis to Indigenous communities in remote areas across the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia.

Proud to see this collaboration come to life, Purple House Chief Executive Sarah Brown said they were thrilled to be partnering with Coles and Balzan on the special partnership.

"We are so grateful to Coles and Lani for this unique partnership. The funds raised through this collaboration will help us continue our mission of providing life-saving healthcare services to remote Indigenous communities," she said.

"Many Indigenous Australians face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, and Purple House is working tirelessly to change that by bringing services closer to home in a culturally safe way. This initiative is a beautiful example of how community, art and purpose can come together to make a lasting impact."

Reflecting on this integral partnership, Balzan stated that the use of colours purple with pops of red, pink and orange symbolised this ongoing commitment.

Not only can you shop the affordable range, each purchase makes a difference in assisting remote Indigenous communities. (Image: Supplied)

In addition to proceeds going towards the organisation, Coles has pledged to match all donations.

Coles Group Corporate & Indigenous Affairs Officer Sally Fielke shared that the partnership is a reflection of Coles' dedication to fostering genuine support for First Nations communities.

"We're incredibly proud of this collaboration with Lani, which not only celebrates First Nations art and culture but raises vital funds for Purple House's critical healthcare services," she said.

"This homewares range is an impactful way for our customers to contribute to a vital cause while supporting an incredible First Nations artist, and by matching donations dollar for dollar, we're amplifying the positive impact we can have in remote Indigenous communities."

Speaking on the significance of this historic collaboration, Balzan said: "It means a lot, it's the first time that Coles has done this. During NAIDOC Week, it is the perfect time to educate people about our art and culture."

With QR codes available on the products, shoppers will be able to delve into the intricate story behind each piece adorned with Balzan's artwork.

In a heartwarming moment on launch day, Balzan's mother-in-law visited the store to purchase the range herself and tell Coles employees about Balzan's achievement, who celebrated with her.

"I feel really proud Coles chose me to be the artist," she said.

Working closely with NRL on their Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), Balzan recently marked a significant achievement, with her artwork taking centre stage at the State of Origin, following its use in Welcome to Country ceremonies.

"I've got six kids, five boys and we just had a baby girl," she said.

"My boys love it, they go to school and they're proud to be Aboriginal kids and proud of what mum does, it's a lovely way to share it with my kids and my family."

With an extensive range of ceramics, aprons, tea towels, candles and umbrellas to name a few, there is something for everyone to appreciate - at an affordable price.

Proud Wiradjuri artist, Lani Balzan. (Image: Justin Huntsdale/ABC)

Delving into the broader messaging of unity and strength behind the collaboration, Balzan highlighted her pride in representing First Nations culture on a platform working to elevate First Nations stories.

"We've got our culture in the shops," she said.

"This is something that's not shunned anymore, it's something to be proud of.

"I do it for all our Mob.

"I'm hoping that little things like this can make a difference in Closing the Gap and educating people on why we have NAIDOC, what it means to us and how important it is and getting involved and celebrate that as well."

When asked what advice she has for emerging First Nations creatives and artists, Balzan said: "It doesn't matter if you're making money from your art."

"It's not about that.

"It's about telling your stories and sharing them with whoever you show your art to and connecting to your culture and understanding what's important.

"Just keep telling your stories and have people see how talented you are because you're sharing your culture, one of the oldest living cultures in the world."

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National Indigenous Times