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Yalanji Artists and families

Handmade, Heartfelt, Homegrown:

YALANJI ARTS & GIFTS

SOUVENIR SHOPPING IS PART OF THE FUN when on holidays, and Gorge and the fabrics continue to be hand printed with meaning and
while things like magnets and keyrings are always popular, sometimes precision. Even the smallest items have a sense of place, each one a piece of
you want to find something a bit more special and meaningful. In Port the landscape and the people behind it. This fresh collection includes hand-
Douglas, Yalanji Arts & Gifts offers a unique and meaningful alternative. sewn homewares like cushion covers and table runners, along with clothing
This shop connects visitors with the rich culture of the local Kuku Yalanji and accessories, all crafted from their unique designs.
people, while directly supporting the Indigenous artists who create each piece. Visitors will be pleasantly surprised to find these beautiful handmade gifts at
Nestled half-way down Macrossan Street, each piece sold in this beautiful affordable prices, not just high-end gallery pieces. And for those who can’t
store - from hand-screen printed fabrics and ceramics to tea towels and make it to Port Douglas, the Yalanji Arts online store makes shopping easy
bags - is made by Kuku Yalanji artists from the Mossman Gorge Aboriginal from anywhere in the world.
Community and surrounding areas. But it’s the local support that the artists are grateful for too. Many people in
The shop features the work of artists like Margaret Rocky, Lorna Shuan, the community already have strong connections with Yalanji families, built
Karen Shuan, Vanessa Cannon, Laurence Gibson and Gregory Salt, and over years of living and working together in schools, hospitals, and local
gives visibility to the broader network of Kuku Yalanji artists of the region. spaces. And now, they can enjoy this creative retail space together whilst
The offering is broad: handcrafted prints, fabrics, ceramics, and giftware, all they shop for meaningful gifts for special occasions.
authentic, locally made, and deeply personal. The craftsmanship speaks for itself. The ceramics are handmade at Mossman
The shop is being run by the member artists of Yalanji Arts, covering all Gorge and the fabrics are hand printed with meaning and precision. It is
the ongoing costs themselves including a monthly shop lease and utilities. fascinating to spend time with Yalanji artists and staff in store, as they offer
Buying at the shop not only helps sustain their beautiful pottery and insights into how each gift was made and the cultural stories woven into the
printmaking programs but also keeps their community-driven centre alive designs. Even the smallest items have a sense of place, each one a piece of the
and thriving. landscape and the people behind it. If you get the chance, it is well worth
Behind the scenes, Sabine Hoeng (Manager of Yalanji Arts) works closely joining a weaving workshop too, where the artists provide that hands-on
understanding of their traditions and some of the techniques they use in
with artists and facilitators and to help bring their designs to life. At the same their work.
time, Yalanji Arts Centre staff are actively involved in hands-on training,
continually developing their skills in art production and creative processes. Yalanji Arts has built a strong reputation over the past five years, exhibiting
Once new fabric designs are screen printed in a variety of colour combinations nationwide and gaining recognition for their high-quality and authentic
merchandise. With a growing base of dedicated collectors and art lovers,
and layouts at the Yalanji Arts Centre studio, a highly selective team of artists their work continues to make an impact across Australia.
and staff carefully choose their favourites. These standout designs are then
sent to Sydney for high-volume printing. Be sure to visit this creative space, explore unique gifts, and support local
In response to customer requests - and with growing interest in their talent on your next trip to Port Douglas.
work- the artists have been busy developing a brand-new product line. The yalanjiarts.com.au
craftsmanship speaks for itself. The ceramics are handmade at Mossman

26 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner