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Issue 61 - Vintage Modern Issue

Issue 61

Vintage Modern Issue

The breadth and scope of Habitus has always been extraordinary. With how we live at heart of every issue, we have stepped it up with Guest Editor David Flack of Flack Studio shaking the ‘how’ and looking at new ways to make a house a home. With Vintage Modern as the issues theme, we look at the way iconic design has stayed with us, how daring pieces from the past can add the wow factor and how architecture and good design defy the pigeon hole of their era.

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Emma Rolls on creating Emro Designs as a platform for First Nations art
DecorNawal Maharaj

Emma Rolls on creating Emro Designs as a platform for First Nations art

Emro Designs, an Aboriginal-owned homewares enterprise, is reshaping interiors with an infusion of contemporary Aboriginal art, curated under the careful eye of its founder, Emma Rolls.


Emro Designs, an Aboriginal-owned and operated business, located in Bundjalung Country (Gold Coast, Queensland), is elevating the visual narrative of interiors through its connection to Country. Founded in 2020 by proud Minjungbal woman Emma Rolls, Emro Designs is all about incorporating the designs and stories of contemporary First Nations artists into design pieces that invigorate interiors.

Approaching it as a stewardship, Rolls amplifies the cultural resonance of Aboriginal art translating it into unique wallpapers and rugs. Collaborating with celebrated Indigenous artists, the business translates these artistic works into functional design elements, thus creating a symbiosis between art and interior decor.

“Contemporary Aboriginal art is a remarkable medium that allows us to honour and showcase the incredible talent of First Nations artists while creating visually stunning spaces,” says Rolls. Her vision extends beyond mere aesthetics to foster an appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s First Nations peoples, thereby building tangible connections between art, design, and inhabited spaces.

The wallpapers and rugs by Emro Designs serve as dynamic mediums to embody Indigenous art. Reflecting age-old traditions and deep-rooted connections to the land, these pieces enhance a space and foster a sense of connection and cultural celebration. Every design allows viewers to engage with the richness of Indigenous culture and storytelling.

“Through our wallpapers and rugs and other soft furnishings, we aim to foster an appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s First Nations peoples and create meaningful connections between art, design, and the spaces we inhabit.”

Some of the artists that Emro Design’s has collaborated with include Kamara Morgan, Zowie Baumgart, Shara Delaney, Holly Sanders and Steven Bekue.

Emro Designs is proactive in broadening the influence of contemporary Aboriginal art. The company invites collaborations with architecture and design firms, builders, and developers, establishing a thriving intersection between artistic and commercial spheres.

Emro Design’s products set a precedent for cultural inclusivity and diverse conversations in design.

Emro Designs
emrodesigns.com.au


About the Author

Nawal Maharaj

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AboriginalAboriginal ArtEmma RollsEmro Designsfirst nationsFirst Nations artIndigenous artInterior Designrugswallpapers


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Issue 61 - Vintage Modern Issue

Issue 61

Vintage Modern Issue

The breadth and scope of Habitus has always been extraordinary. With how we live at heart of every issue, we have stepped it up with Guest Editor David Flack of Flack Studio shaking the ‘how’ and looking at new ways to make a house a home. With Vintage Modern as the issues theme, we look at the way iconic design has stayed with us, how daring pieces from the past can add the wow factor and how architecture and good design defy the pigeon hole of their era.

Order Issue