Akay Koo’olia – Kilim (L)

Composition: Hand dyed wool and cotton
Size: 122 x 183 cm (48 x 72 inches)

Color: Vibrant

Features:

• Hand embroidered/chain-stitched
• All natural fibres – embroidered wool on cotton canvas
• Fair Trade certified
• Limited edition – individually numbered
• Certificate of Authenticity supplied with each kilim
• Royalties paid to the artist/family on every sale
• Hard wearing
• Back has non-slip surface
• Each kilim has flap on the rear for ease of hanging with dowel/rod
• Matching cushion covers are also available

Chain-stitched kilims are a traditional rug making technique from Kashmir. As people sat on the floor they were both homewares and decoration. As many artworks are painted on the ground or 3D surfaces/bodies most of the images do not have a set orientation so can also be hung portrait or landscape if preferred.

The artist: Akay Koo’oila was a Wik Mungkan Elder. Born in Aurukun in 1923, Akay was the oldest person in her community until her death in 2014. Akay started painting in June 2010, her works epitomise her own individual dynamic perspective, expressionistic and vivid representation of her Country, her husband’s Country and the outstation Ti Tree particularly their abundant varieties of bush foods and flowers.Akay exhibited nationally and travelled to Brisbane and Cairns for exhibitions and her works are held in private and public collections. Akay’s family receives royalty payments for the licensing of this artwork.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS:
Do not put place/use in direct sunlight or colors may fade. To clean – careful hand-wash in warm water using a wool detergent. Can be ironed on a wool setting.

About the Better World Arts chainstitch kilim products
These beautiful, unique textiles are a cross-cultural collaboration combining Aboriginal designs and traditional Kashmiri rug-making techniques. Chain stitched, using hand dyed wool, each is a completely handmade piece. A more empowering way to work, this brings many direct benefits to the artists’ and their community. Control and ownership of intellectual property are also maintained. Purchase of these products guarantees a direct return to the Aboriginal artist and their community.