Aunty Bronwyn Spearim

Aunty Bronwyn Spearim is a traditional dancer and teacher of the Guubuun Guunigaal clan of the Murri Gabi people of the Gamilaraay Nation. She is one of the few native speakers of Gamilaraay. Born on Moree’s Mehi Mission in 1965, Aunty Bronwyn has practiced, shared and taught her traditional songs, dances, language, and stories to many afar for over 30 years.

Through her business Ngambaa Dhalaay she shares her culture through art, weaving, dancing, language, storytelling and more. Aunty Bronwyn is also a cultural consultant, knowledge holder and Traditional dance teacher of the Brolga Dance Academy. 

Aunty Bronwyn Spearim is conducting the Acknowledgement of Country.

Hannah Cole

My name is Hannah and I’m a freelance writer, publicist living on Yuin Country. I’m a collector and general dabbler with fingers in many pies. I’ve been working in the background to help you find out about the event and get all the words in order.  

On embarking on a creative career
I’ve always had a keen interest in fashion. I pored over the magazines even as a young child and loved making my own creations. While I always dreamt of becoming an iconic Australian designer, in the end, I found that words were a medium I could work with immediately (and easily delete/amend when issues arise). My various jobs keep my brain ticking and fingers typing, but I still love to have a creative passion project or two on the side. 

On using personal style as a tool for expression Sometimes my outfit is the first thing I think about when I wake up - hence why the BOM app is my first checkpoint in the morning. It’s a way to document and express my mood, as well as a creative outlet. I can explore different characters as I take inspiration from my wardrobe, Instagram and vintage aesthetics. Adding a vintage or secondhand element is part of my daily formula and cements my love of recycled fashion - pieces already in existence have so much to offer, we just need to relearn and reinvent ways to wear them.  

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
I’m really excited to hear the discussion surrounding First Nations fashion, sustainability and technology. I believe the future of Australian fashion is a blending of these, creating an inclusive, unique and connected identity. It’s easy to become jaded about sustainability - it can be scary and overwhelming - but I truly think we can all make small changes that have impact.

HARA the Label

HARA (meaning green in Hindi) is a clothing label designed for people and the earth. With ethical sourcing and conscious production at the core, HARA strives to offer soft, high quality pieces that don’t cost the earth. 

The idea behind HARA was born in 2013 when founder Allie Cameron embarked on a sustainable fashion journey when running a second-hand vintage store. Quickly realising the backwards, outdated processes within the fashion industry that harm the earth, she felt a call to do something. While travelling in India in 2015, Allie witnessed the heartbreaking truths of the fast-fashion industry - chemical runoff, waste, pollution, unjust work conditions. 

HARA now resides in Melbourne, where every process starts and finishes in the factory. From the cutting and sewing to dyeing and dispatch, every HARA piece is made slowly, consciously and with intention.

HARA provided deadstock activewear pieces for the show.

Hayley Pigram

I'm Hayley Pigram, a Darug urban Aboriginal artist. I create many different types of works in a contemporary First Nations style. My involvement in this project is in creating artworks out of lights to decorate, enhance and complement the fantastic fashion.

On embarking on a creative career
I initially started doing artworks to improve my mental health in my mid 20's. However, it was the first time I had ever found something I felt a deep connection to and could envision doing for the rest of my life. From there I couldn't stop and it changed my whole life.

On using personal style as a tool for expression
Even though I consider myself someone who is not a fashion person, I do have a style I like to express. I am a t-shirt connoisseur, I love a t-shirt that says something (both literally and figuratively) I love to evoke a reaction from my shirts. I like to control that reaction: funny, sarcastic, protest, artistic, etc. My shirts are my way to show the world what I want them to see from me that day, like a removable skin or tattoo.

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
I'm very excited about what it means that First Nations and non-indigenous people have all worked together to produce the final look for this fashion experience. This is not always easy as a great deal of respect and sensitivity is needed on both sides and it has gone very well. It makes me very hopeful for what is possible now and in the future.

Represented by Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative
Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative was established in Chippendale, Sydney in 1987 by ten founding member artists. They were Euphemia Bostock, Fiona Foley, Michael Riley (dec.), Tracey Moffatt, Jeffrey Samuels, Bronwyn Bancroft, Avril Quaill, Fern Martens, Arone Meeks (dec.) and Brenda L. Croft. These ten artists were striving for recognition from the mainstream art society and their diversity was unparalleled. They challenged preconceptions around urban-based Aboriginal artists and created a unique space for themselves within the art world.

In the languages of the Bundjalung, Gamilaroi and Wiradjuri, Boomalli means to strike; to make a mark. Boomalli is the longest running Aboriginal owned and run arts organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting NSW language group artists. Boomalli provides a safe space for artists to exhibit, work and tell their stories through their art. Boomalli’s gallery, studio and retail space is located at 55-59 Flood St, Leichhardt.

IndigeDesign Lab

IndigeDesign Lab is a partnership between NorthSite and Aboriginal design agency ingeous studios led by Aboriginal designer and creative director Leigh Harris, and is an experimental Indigenous creative learning lab which seeks to introduce young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives to digital design and creative industries.

Based in Cairns, @IndigeDesignLabs provides real world industry experiences for participants in graphic design, photography, video production and digital production (UI/UX) and experimental technologies. We seek to develop immersive storytelling in natural and man-made environments through the confluence of art, design, technology and culture.

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
We were so excited to be asked by Mads to be involved with the creatives for this event, it's a first for us mob here at IndigeDesignLabs, and rare for a small crew from regional Queensland to be asked to be involved in VIVID Sydney. Hopefully it's something that can be built onto.

Our involvement was really to create some visuals for something quite new that could meld the past with the future in pieces created for the show. They are not really pieces that relate to our song-lines but are visuals that are purely aesthetic but have some simple representation and meaning in the singular visuals but not a storyline. We love the way that Madeleine has used the visuals that we delivered in a new way and we can't wait to see what comes next.  

Jodie Choolburra-Welsh

I am a Gamilaroi and Murrawarri woman born and raised in the Redfern community. I am the Founder/Artistic Director of Brolga Dance Academy, an Aboriginal Dance School specialising in Traditional and Aboriginal Contemporary dance and based in Redfern. I am leading the First Nation cultural direction and creation of the performance and runway for Fashion Flash Back to the Future.  

On embarking on a creative career
I believe Brolga Dance Academy chose me. That it was my calling, and that I was guided by my Ancestors to build this unique vital cultural business for present and future generations. 

My inspiration to create Brolga was drawn from the need of the community to have an authentic and culturally safe space for our young people to have a consistent authentic connection to culture. That our Ancestors' stories and culture continues to be shared, practiced, grows, respected, and evolves. We have a saying that we live by in Brolga, “To see us dance is to hear our Ancestors speak.” 

On using personal style as a tool for expression
I like to keep it simple but classy, unique and different, and I like to mix things up a bit. I have never owned any high-end fashion labels or brands; I prefer to find a bargain and add a bit of my flavour to it and create my own look. I dress for comfort and style and it is very rare that you will see me in heels, as I like to stay grounded and connected to Mother Earth, even though I could use the height. I also love supporting First Nation businesses and love seeing our culture represented in the fashion industry. So, I am often seen wearing clothing items or accessories made by 100% owned and controlled First Nation designers and entrepreneurs.

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
The most exciting part about the show was the First Nation representation and inspiration and restoring vintage clothing by transforming them into something modern and diverse. It pays respect to our past and present. I see this showcase as a new movement towards environmental sustainability in the fashion industry and wider communities, caring for Mother Earth with style and First Nation inclusivity.

Madeleine Park

I’m a Sydney-based presenter, stylist, and host and founder of the Style Stories podcast. I am producing ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future.’

On embarking on a creative career
I actually started my career in psychology and human resources. Whilst those people skills are something that I still hold on to and use, the heart of my creativity has always been around fashion. My creative outlets have always been sketching fashion drawings or making clothes for my dolls or helping friends pick out clothes. It was always something that was there, but I never thought to pursue it as a career until I was in New York. I had an opportunity to explore it there and I took a leap of faith into working in the industry.

On using personal style as a tool for expression
I've always liked feminine colours and shapes, and that probably stems from expressing an approachability or softness that I would like to see in myself. I also love vintage pieces, particularly the design element and the stories that they tell. I like adding vintage and nostalgic pieces in the way I dress; it allows me to have a cheeky point of difference.

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
What doesn't excite me about this event? I think the most exciting thing is seeing the calibre of people involved and the innovation and creativity that they've exercised. It’s been incredible to see such a wonderfully diverse, kind, smart, talented group of people coming together. Seeing these types of collaborations and community, that’s what excites me about how the future will be. 

Maggie Zhou

I’m Maggie Zhou, I’m a 23-year-old writer, podcaster and slow fashion advocate. I’m currently at Refinery29 Australia as Writer & Producer and I co-host the pop culture podcast Culture Club. I’m also an indecisive Pisces whose favourite food is cheese.

On embarking on a creative career
I’ve always been naturally drawn to words, fashion and social media. When I was at high school, I had my own blog and when I was in uni, I was co-editor of our student magazine. But I never thought a career in this field was possible — it was barely even a pipe dream — primarily because I didn’t see people like me in jobs like this. Storytelling is something that’s in all our lives and for me, it has the most electrifying magnetic force that I can’t keep away from.

On using personal style as a tool for expression
My idea of personal style continues to change as I keep evolving and learning more about myself. While that can feel daunting as an indecisive person, it’s something I’m embracing. Self-expression isn’t only a reflection of how I feel on one particular day, but also an extension of my moral values around sustainability. How I play with clothes varies day-to-day, but my staunch beliefs on slow fashion don’t budge. 

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
I’m so excited to see the upcycled vintage runway! Fashion should be collaborative, fun and creative — and this screams that. I’m excited for our future of fashion that borrows from the past and embraces traditional ways of making.  

Marnie Gerber

I am Marnie Gerber. I am a hair and makeup artist and I am working with Madeleine to create the hair and makeup looks for her show for Vivid's Fashion Flash, Back to the Future. 

On embarking on a creative career
I have always been a creative. I was born into a fashion household with my mum working in the fashion industry for some iconic Australian designers. I always looked up to her style and beauty; I would love it when she came to my school to pick me up, or for parent events. The other kids would gasp at her glamour, beauty and cool …. “Is that your mum?! Wow!” 

My mum always encourages my creativity and spurs me on in my endeavours and challenges. We workshop ideas together on the daily!

On using personal style as a tool for expression
I use my personal style as my personal expression. It is a daily artform at our fingertips! I have always been this way - not only with the clothes I wear but with my hair and makeup. 

I never plan my looks in advance. I am very moody with the way I dress and put myself together, depending on how I feel on the day. I like to dress down and then pop a red lip while wearing a tracksuit, I like to mix it up and I love the juxtaposition that can be created between clothing and hair and makeup. I believe that a choice of hairstyle or one particular item of makeup can make an outfit instantly look cool. 

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
I’m so excited about upcycling vintage and seeing what Hayley is going to add to them. I love how the kids today are all about buying second-hand designer rather than all the new clothing out there that is headed for landfill. It is a great message to send out to everyone, to show what can be done with great clothing pieces from the past. So cool! 

Nicole Oliviera

I'm Nicole Oliveria, a fashion designer based in Dharug Country/ Western Sydney. I am assisting 'Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future' as Head Dresser.

On embarking on a creative career
As a child watching my Aunty sew all types of clothes, from scratch, for clients (and myself) from her small home studio; it seemed like magic! Watching that creative process inspired me from a young age to take up sewing. 

On using personal style as a tool for expression
My personal style incorporates mostly second-hand and thrifted items as a means of practicing a sustainable attitude towards fashion.

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
[The most exciting part is] the integration of indigenous narratives with sustainable fashion practices in a fresh and innovative way, and [exploring] how this can inspire new ways of integrating different communities into sustainable fashion whilst honouring them. 

Nina Fitzgerald

I am Nina Fitzgerald, a creative director + creative being living in Darwin, NT. For the past few years I have worked across the fashion industry with particular focus on the growing Indigenous fashion and textiles space - how to sustainably support the Indigenous creatives working in this space, as well as ensuring the Australia fashion Industry champions the age-old stories of this country. I have been working with Maddy as a cultural and creative consultant as she has pulled this beautiful event together.

On embarking on a creative career
On my first day at Uni in Melbourne, someone said to me they had never met an Aboriginal person. The statement really shocked me. I didn’t understand why, or how, people made no effort to connect to Indigeonus Australia, or just chose to ignore it.

This ignited a passion in me to share the stories of Indigenous Australia, particularly those of the remote places where few people really experience. The histories, lived experiences, challenges and resilience. The vibrance, beauty and ingenious creative output. I believe the inequalities faced by First Nations Australians could be hugely reduced if there was more understanding and empathy from the rest of the nation. The whole of Australia, and the world, needs to embrace these stories and celebrate the unique diversity of the oldest living cultures on earth.

On using personal style as a tool for expression
My personal style changes. I always think it's a bit spontaneous, like me! The constant is comfort, clothes with no pretence that are easy and can be worn in many situations, and can be dressed up or down. I really don’t like wearing something everyone else has. 

This is an ode to my upbringing in Darwin, which is very much relaxed, easy and unique. And also always hot! I like oversized shirts, relaxed jeans, long floaty dresses, in natural fabrics like linen, cotton or soft silks. 

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
Seamlessly embracing and centering the First Nations perspective within this historical and sustainable lens is another powerful step toward bridging the gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australia, merging old and new creative perspectives and storytelling that are key to creating a more harmonious world.

Soraya Tailoring

We are Soraya Tailoring, a luxury garment alterations, tailoring & customisation boutique. Our Tailoring & Styling team assisted the artists & collaborators in bringing their wearable art to "light"!

On embarking on a creative career
For us, it's the people that inspired us to begin this adventure! Our vision for Soraya Tailoring was to carve out a comfortable, respectful, collaborative space for our customers to meet with respectful industry professionals and explore their sense of style. Our flagship Potts Point boutique resides in one of the most colourful and dynamic neighbourhoods in Sydney! From the eclectic mix of charming locals, the bustling cafe nooks and The Sydney Theatre Company just a stone’s throw down the road- the people that adorn this suburb are the ones that filled us with the inspiration & energy to plant roots here!

On using personal style as a tool for expression
Your wardrobe is an extension of who you are. It should feel personal, authentic, and natural for the wearer. We believe that no outfit is complete without the perfect fit! When you feel confident in your look, your posture changes, your mindset shifts, you feel great—and that's how we want you to feel every time you step out the door.

If you're looking for a piece that will be timeless and forever-sophisticated, a blazer is the way to go. A monochromatic colour palette is simple, but it's not boring. The right combination of textures can be stunning and unexpected. Velvet and silk are perfect for this kind of look—they're both luxurious, and they don't shout. You can make quite a statement by choosing one or two key pieces—and we make sure that each piece is perfectly tailored to fit your body. Finish off the look with one of our statement luxury brooches and you're ready to go!

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
When we think about Aboriginal art, we imagine diversity and inclusion. We imagine innovation, curiosity and creativity. Now, with the help of light technology, we can bring this to life in an entirely new way.

We believe that diversity and inclusion creates the most vibrant, creative future for our company, our clients, and for the world at large.

Tamara Li

I'm Tamara and I am currently studying fashion design at UTS. I’m assisting with the preparation leading up to the show as well as helping out backstage on the night. 

On embarking on a creative career
I enjoy being able to express ideas and my imaginations in a creative way that means something to me.

On using personal style as a tool for expression
Personal style allows me to curate a story and identity that I want to tell others. Whether it's dressing in a vintage top or a handmade coat, each piece of clothing is chosen carefully to reflect myself and how I feel that day.

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
I am most excited about the upcycled vintage looks and to see how we can take old used clothing and transform it into something with a new meaning. For our future, this puts a spotlight on the need for more sustainable practices within the fashion industry.

Zoltan Csaki

My name is Zoltan Csaki and I am one of the co-founders of Citizen Wolf. We’re a fashion brand/technology company based in Sydney, on a mission to reengineer the way clothes are made at scale to save our planet. I’m speaking on the panel. 

On embarking on a creative career
I studied Visual Communications at UTS and went into the advertising industry. I spent about 10 years travelling around the world as an Art Director working on the biggest global brands, starting in Sydney, then I went to Barcelona, London, Amsterdam and Berlin. I quit because I had an idea to make some software that would have made my job as an Art Director easier. I ultimately couldn't turn it into a business and then I fell into a fashion brand with a friend of mine. It started as a side project and then became my main hustle for a few years, but once again, couldn't turn it into a business. I arrived back in Australia and started chatting with Eric, my co-founder, and Citizen Wolf is the outcome. 

On using personal style as a tool for expression
Look, I'm certainly not the most stylish person. I tend to gravitate to the classics, I guess - a good pair of jeans, a great t-shirt (funnily enough), a jacket, and some nice boots if I'm leaving the house, or sneakers if I'm not.

I don't know that I actually could say I use personal style as a tool for expression. I like to think that the brand does that for me. Although, I do prioritise colour - flat blocks, not clashing patterns. We launch a new colour every two weeks at Citizen Wolf and I think we’re getting much better at telling the stories behind those colours. 

On ‘Fashion’s Flash: Back to the Future’
I’m most excited about the light show element and the idea of using clothes as a canvas to project something on. Obviously, there's a lot to a lot of ink that has been spilled about t-shirts in particular, as a canvas for slogans and promoting your view on things to the world. Considering t-shirts are the majority of our business, that is really exciting to me. They are an ever-renewing blank canvas for any message that you want to put out in the world. And even if it's not printed like ours, it is still saying something because of the way it's cut or the material it's made out of.