Lillardia Briggs-Houston has won this year’s NIFA Textile Design Award, supported by RMIT University.

She is the granddaughter of Cedric and Bessie Briggs of Narrandera.

A proud Wiradjuri, Yorta Yorta and Gangalu woman based on Wiradjuri Country, she creates contemporary textiles using traditional bush dyeing methods, hand-dyed silk and intricate surface embellishment inspired by the cultural significance of Binyal (river red gums).

Her textiles tell the story of the Marrambidya through materials gathered, dyed and crafted on Country, honouring the knowledge passed down by her Old People and continuing Wiradjuri culture.

The Indigenous Fashion Projects (IFP) announce the seven recipients of this year’s prestigious National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) last Wednesday 5 August, when it celebrated seven years of the NIFA.

It also commemorated 20 years of the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation creating opportunities for First Nations artists, designers and communities.

“Twenty years of investing in cultural futures. And 20 years of proving that when First Nations people lead, extraordinary things happen,” a spokesperson said,

“To every nominee, finalist and winner tonight – thank you. You continue to inspire future generations and demonstrate the power of Indigenous design on a global stage.”

Event partners QIC, Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program, travel sponsor Nautilus Aviation and generous supporters Terri Layman and Michael Sitzler were thanked for making the night possible.

Principal Media Partner NITV and Ticketing Partner Darwin Fringe Festival and award partners: Canberra Centre, QIC, Pacific Werribee, Country Road, RMIT University, Desart and Franchesca Cubillo were also thanked, along with host Megan Waters, Nicole Brown who gave a powerful Welcome to Larrakia Country, Merrepen Arts for the stunning fabrics on stage, and guest speaker Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy, Minister for Indigenous Australians.

The panel of esteemed judges comprised Julie Shaw – Founder and Creative Director of MAARA Collective, Lindyn Rowland – Founder and Creative Director of Rowland Vision, and Lisa Friedl – Creative Director of Country Road.