Nancy Pattison

Nancy Pattison is a proud Dunghutti woman from South West Rocks, New South Wales, whose creative journey intertwines her cultural heritage with contemporary design. As a talented weaver, artist, photographer, and fashion designer, she has made significant contributions to the representation of First Nations cultures in the arts.

Nancy founded Indii Swimwear in 2015, a label inspired by her deep connection to saltwater and coastal landscapes. Each piece tells a story, celebrating the beauty and strength of saltwater women who cherish the sea, sun, and sand. Her designs have graced the runway at Australian Fashion Week as part of the Indigenous Fashion Projects, where she was mentored by renowned designers Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning of P.E Nation. Additionally, her work has been featured in Marie Claire's spotlight on Indigenous-owned businesses.

Nancy's artistry extends to traditional weaving practices, where she draws inspiration from her Dunghutti heritage. Her work has been showcased in exhibitions such as the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Fair and the Weaving Room exhibition at the Museum of Sydney, which celebrates the history and diversity of First Nations weaving traditions in New South Wales. She has also facilitated cultural weaving workshops, sharing her knowledge and skills with the community.

Nancy's public art installations are a testament to her commitment to cultural expression. Her designs adorn bollards along the foreshore at Back Creek, South West Rocks, integrating her artwork into the landscape and making it accessible to the public. These installations reflect her connection to saltwater and the healing power of the ocean.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Nancy is dedicated to community engagement and cultural empowerment. She actively participates in local initiatives, including hosting weaving sessions during National Reconciliation Week, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture.

Nancy Pattison continues to inspire and lead by example, blending tradition with innovation to create art that resonates with cultural significance and contemporary relevance.