First Nations fashion label Ngali launches new creative studio in Docklands

Indigenous fashion brand Ngali has announced its latest venture, Ngali Miya – a new creative studio located at developer Lendlease’s Melbourne Quarter precinct on Gunpowder Walk in Docklands.

Ngali Miya will showcase Ngali fashion collections together with various First Nations artwork and designs. The space will also host events with several functions and workshops slated for the coming months.

It marks the second venture for the acclaimed First Nations label, with Ngali’s eponymous retail store having opened within the Melbourne Quarter precinct at 24 Aurora Lane in late 2022.

“Our brand-new creative studio embodies our commitment to spotlighting the remarkable talent of First Nations artists,” Ngali founder and designer Denni Francisco said.

“Our vision is to cultivate a space that not only celebrates their creativity but also fosters community engagement through events, workshops, and storytelling sessions.”

Ngali translates to ‘us’ or ‘we’ in a number of First Nations languages and symbolises our ethos of inclusivity and collaboration. The creative studio will showcase a variety of First Nations artists' work and encourage collaboration in many different forms.

In the spirit of collaboration, Ngali works together with emerging, inspiring, and gifted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists who translate that art into easy wear and eco-conscious clothing and collectibles.

To celebrate the opening of Ngali Miya, a free, ticketed event will be held at Two Melbourne Quarter, Spaces and inside the new creative studio on April 23, featuring a guest appearance by Maurice Rioli Junior of the Richmond Football Club.

Kicking off at 2pm, the event will showcase the debut of the new Richmond guernsey, designed by Rioli and his mother, Tiwi Elder and artist Alberta Kerinauia.

Attendees can expect an immersive experience with the chance to meet Maurice, have memorabilia or personal items signed and enjoy catering by local paninoteca Saluministi. All guests will go into a draw to win two tickets to an upcoming Richmond Football game.

Ngali Miya will be open from 11am to 3pm, Tuesday to Thursday. The Ngali retail store can also be found within the precinct, located at 24 Aurora Lane, Melbourne Quarter and open from Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.