First Nations artists embrace the chance to share Indigenous culture with the world

Subscribers to the online service Cricut can use a free app and specialised cutting machines to design and create their own artwork ranging from clothing to greeting cards.

The company, which says its platform has eight million members across the world, has partnered with three First Nations artists under the Cricut Contributing Artist Program to launch a collection of Indigenous art and designs inspired by NAIDOC Week (July 7–14).

Held annually, NAIDOC Week is designed to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is "Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud" in honour of the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture.

The artwork created by Indigenous artists Kyralee Shields, Leah Cummins and Breanna Buttenshaw is inspired by Indigenous stories and symbolism and is available via Cricut ANZ Designs, part of the Cricut Design Space platform.

All proceeds from the sale of the designs will go towards the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and the First Nations not-for-profit organisation Children's Ground.

Cricut ANZ regional director Nicola Dow-Smith said the company was honoured to support and celebrate Indigenous artists and culture on their own design platform.

“Our collaboration with the talented artists Kyralee Shields, Leah Cummins and Breanna Buttenshaw along with our support for the Indigenous Literacy foundation, and Children’s Ground is aimed at amplifying awareness and representation within the Cricut community,” she said.

“These partnerships are demonstrative of our commitment to creativity, cultural appreciation, and inclusivity for Aboriginal and communities.”

The Cricut Contributing Artist Program allows designers to sell their images to the Cricut community of more than eight million members worldwide.

The program was developed to encourage a diverse array of artists from around the world to contribute original artwork to the Cricut design library.

Artist and proud Dharug woman Kyralee Shields said the NAIDOC Week collaboration was a wonderful way to share Indigenous culture and stories through art.

“Cricut’s platform allows our designs to reach a global audience, fostering greater appreciation and understanding of Indigenous heritage,” she said.

“I am proud that our efforts will support both the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and Children’s Ground, making a meaningful impact.”

Leah Cummins, a Mayi Kulan and Kalkadoon woman living in Quandamooka country, agreed.

“It’s inspiring to see our art contribute to literacy and education in our communities. Partnering with Cricut and supporting the Indigenous Literacy foundation is a cause close to my heart.”

Breanna Buttenshaw, who also a proud Kalkadoon woman, said working with Cricut for NAIDOC week was an exciting opportunity to bring traditional First Nations art into homes worldwide.

“It’s a celebration of our identity and a step towards greater visibility for Indigenous artists.”

Artist and proud Dharug woman Kyralee Shields said the NAIDOC Week collaboration was a wonderful way to share Indigenous culture and stories through art.

“Cricut’s platform allows our designs to reach a global audience, fostering greater appreciation and understanding of Indigenous heritage,” she said.

“I am proud that our efforts will support both the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and Children’s Ground, making a meaningful impact.”

Leah Cummins, a Mayi Kulan and Kalkadoon woman living in Quandamooka country, agreed.

“It’s inspiring to see our art contribute to literacy and education in our communities. Partnering with Cricut and supporting the Indigenous Literacy foundation is a cause close to my heart.”

Breanna Buttenshaw, who also a proud Kalkadoon woman, said working with Cricut for NAIDOC week was an exciting opportunity to bring traditional First Nations art into homes worldwide.

“It’s a celebration of our identity and a step towards greater visibility for Indigenous artists.”