Marninjarra means “two women”, a name that speaks to family, connection, and strength.
The brand is led by Joycelyn McCarthy, A Walmajarri woman who grew up on country in the red heart of the Kimberley.
Jocelyns textile designs come from the land, desert and wildlife on the Canning Stock Route, her mother was born at Well 46.
Scenes of the crocodile that live on the banks of the river, the billabongs full of life and song and the sand dunes that lead the way across country, can be found amongst her prints.
For Jocelyn, her work helps her on a path of healing. Marninjarra was born from the deep sadness of losing her son and family member to suicide. Painting is a way of journeying through the grief, honouring the past and bringing inspiration and hope for future generations.
Watching her work come alive on the runway, seeing her community, especially the young ones wearing designs from their country has brought a sense of pride and strength.
From the first sketches, through to the final production for the Kimberley Aboriginal Fashion and Textiles (KAFT) runway, Marninjarra is thrilled to present you with a range inspired by desert colour- a small snippet into the life and creativity that flows through the region.