Meet Tishara - artist, creative, mum and the founder of KYKOE- a business selling artwork and accessories that link back to Tishara’s Aboriginal and Zenadth Kes culture.
Get to know Tishara and her hopes for tomorrow:
Tell us how you got to where you are?
I’ve always been creative; however, it took some time to gain the courage to open up and share with the world. KYKOE emerged from the depths of post-natal depression after the birth of my third child. In the midst of this, I found solace and a coping mechanism in channelling my creativity. What started as a personal outlet quickly transformed into a full-fledged hobby, and before I knew it, KYKOE had grown into a thriving business.
For me, KYKOE is more than just a brand - it’s a vessel that allows me to shape my own future, openly express myself and share my culture. Through wearable art, prints and more, I’ve been fortunate to have created a platform where creativity knows no bounds. It’s not just a business; it’s a reflection of my journey, passions, culture, community and the resilience that brought me here.
The beauty of KYKOE goes beyond tangible products; it’s also a conduit for meaningful partnerships. It has allowed me to explore my artistic inclinations and created a platform for wonderful collaborations. In essence, my path to this point has been a blend of personal growth, turning challenges into opportunities and using my creativity as a powerful force for positive change. KYKOE is a testament to my culture, family, community and the transformative power of finding strength in vulnerability.
What are your main sources of inspiration behind your designs?
The inspiration for my designs comes from my love of country, family and culture. I spend most of my time outdoors, especially at the beach near the saltwater and am inspired by cultural practices, stories, knowledge and memories that form the foundation of my identity. Every design is created with the intention of weaving together my experiences, creating a visual narrative that resonates with the echoes of my culture.
All of my designs serve as a vessel to preserve songlines, distinctive moments shared with loved ones and to share aspects of my life - moments that, if left unattended, could be long forgotten. Through my designs, I aspire to encapsulate the significance of these chapters, ensuring they endure and are passed on to the generations that follow. My creative process is a journey of connection, a bridge between the past and the future. It's a testament to the profound impact of my elders and the cultural knowledge they've entrusted to me. Through my designs, I aim to celebrate my personal story and contribute to the collective narrative that binds us all together.
Explain the meaning of the elements in your design?
This design intertwines various elements to convey my hopes for tomorrow – an authentic connection. Within this piece, connection lines represent the intricate ties within our community, illustrating how we are all linked regardless of our differences. Community is at the heart, depicted through the many community lines, people and the communal spaces that bring everyone together. The inclusion of stars and the universe in the background serves as a reminder of something greater, offering a perspective that the world is vast yet interconnected. I included it to invite the viewer to contemplate our place in the grand scheme of things, the beauty of unity, and a reminder that we are all capable of turning our dreams into reality.
The many interconnecting elements serve as a visual metaphor of how our differences aren’t barriers that separate us but are diverse components that join us together harmoniously, just like the threads in a fabric. Each element contributes to the overall richness of our community and how our differences bind us together and should be celebrated. The hibiscus and leaves add a touch of nature, symbolising growth, renewal, and the organic essence of our community. They bring life and vibrancy to the design, echoing the vitality within our connections.
What advice would you give for someone wanting to become an artist?
Don't overthink it. Let the magic happen as you create; sometimes, the best stories unfold spontaneously. Flaws are an integral part of the beauty that is perfection, so embrace the quirks and nuances; they add character to your art. Stay true to yourself—your voice, your vision. It's easy to be swayed by trends, but authenticity is timeless. Push forward, even when the road gets bumpy. Challenges are just stepping stones to mastery and above all, relish every single moment and enjoy the journey.
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