Roopa’s Rhapsody of Colour

Melbourne-based designer Roopa Pemmaraju, who is well known for collaborating with Indigenous artists to create beautiful (and ethically accredited) fashion pieces, is now tackling another type of design. Roopa is part of an exciting new art installation in Sydney’s Lane Four. Running until the end of September, the installation also includes the work of four talented Indigenous designers. We caught up with Roopa to find out a bit more about the collaboration.

Can you tell us a bit about the installation?
The art installation has been an incredible collaboration between myself, the Indigenous artists and Lane Four. The huge wall space has allowed for beautifully printed silks to drape across the walkway, showcasing different Indigenous artists. It is the coming together of art and fashion.

You are well known for your collaboration with Aboriginal artists. What do you enjoy most about it?
The most enjoyable part for me is every story and the artist’s concept behind each piece of artwork.

What would you like people to get out of this project?
The idea is to reach out to a maximum number of people, with a story that is helping to sustain the Indigenous artists and their communities.

How has this project differed from collaborating on fashion?
The larger than life-sized pieces are not just textile installations but they depict the journey of art being translated into wearable fashion.

Australia will be hosting its own Indigenous Fashion Week next April. How do think this might influence the local industry?
A Fashion Week focusing only on an Indigenous concept would bring about more awareness to Indigenous artists and will bring the Indigenous community together, showcasing talents and stories behind Indigenous fashion. It will also ensure a fresh perspective towards diversifying indigenous art!