Kamilya Lowana White is a contemporary Aboriginal artist based in Naarm, and a proud Kija Bardi woman, whose work is rooted in family, culture, storytelling, and a deep connection to land and water. 

Kamilya is the very talented artist behind Burnt Birarr, our latest artist collaboration print, featured on our Refuge Waterproof Jacket. The piece is about resilience, Country, and the quiet strength that remains even through hardship.

We had a chat with Kamilya to learn more about her world, her art and the story behind creating Burnt Birarr.

Tell us a little about yourself, who you are, and where are you from?

I’m a contemporary Aboriginal artist based in Naarm and a proud Kija Bardi woman. My work is deeply influenced by family, life, emotion, culture, and my connection to land and water. My Aboriginal heritage comes from my father’s side, with our mob from the Kimberley region in Western Australia.

I’m also a mum to two young kids, Salty and Reef, with my husband Nick - so life is pretty full and busy. A lot of what I create is shaped by everyday moments, our journey, storytelling, and the importance of staying connected to who we are and where we come from.

What does a typical day in your life look like? 

My days are a blend of family life and creating. Mornings are all about the kids and getting organised, and then I fit in painting, planning, or working on collaborations wherever I can. It’s a bit of a juggle, but it works for us.

Most of my creative time happens at night, when everything slows down, the kids are in bed, and I can properly focus.

How did you first get into art? 

Art has always been something I’ve been drawn to from a young age, creativity has always been part of who I am. I started painting as a hobby, as a way to express myself, ground myself, and slow down from a busy lifestyle.

Over time, I began sharing my work more, and it naturally grew into what it is today. I still pinch myself that I now get to call myself an artist.

And where do you feel most inspired?

I feel most inspired down the coast, especially by the ocean. Being near the water with my family and slowing everything down, that’s when ideas come most naturally.

You’ve collaborated with the likes of The Block and the Western Bulldogs FC, how does it feel seeing your art out in the world? 

It’s honestly surreal. Seeing something that started as a concept to then end up in people’s homes or on a football field is such a proud moment.

It means a lot knowing the stories behind my work are being shared and appreciated on a much bigger scale.

Onto our collaboration now. Burnt Birarr is your piece that’s been printed onto our waterproof jackets, tell us about the story behind it.  

Burnt Birarr represents the strength and resilience of Country. “Birarr” reflects land and place, while “Burnt” speaks to the challenges the land endures.

Together, it tells a story of perseverance - how even in harsh and isolated environments, there is a deep sense of stability and strength that remains. The colours reflect the landscape, bold, warm, and full of life, even in conditions that can feel harsh and isolating.

Burnt Birarr was part of my first collection, Nyarntiny, which means ‘gum tree’ in traditional Kija language. The patterns and elements are inspired by gum trees, while the colour palette draws from the vibrant yet raw beauty of Desert Country. The piece is designed to take you back to a place, a feeling, or an emotion - just as it did for me when creating it.

Can you talk us through the process of creating Burnt Birarr? 

With Burnt Birarr, the process started with the feeling of the landscape - its colour, depth, and strength. I built up layers of warm, earthy tones to reflect Desert Country and its energy.

From there, I worked through the composition to create a sense of movement while still holding balance, representing both the challenges the land endures and the stability it carries.

The variations in dot work, strokes, and tonal layering are what bring the piece together and give it its depth.

What’s your favourite part of the process? 

The beginning, when the idea is still forming and evolving. That’s where the story really comes to life and the vision builds in my mind.

I get excited at that stage and I can’t wait to bring it to life.

How do you like to spend time outdoors? 

Down the coast with my family, beach days, fresh air, and slowing things down. Unplanned, switched off, and fully present.

I also love sitting around a fire, watching the sunset with good company. That’s where I feel most grounded.

What’s next for you or what are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on a new collection that I’ve been visualising for a while. It’s really starting to take shape, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

Alongside that, I’m continuing to grow my art and collaborate in ways that stay true to my story and style. There’s a lot in the works, which is really exciting.

Who are your favourite artists? 

I’m inspired by a mix of Aboriginal artists and contemporary creatives, especially those who tell strong, honest stories through their work.

I really love Salty One - his work is incredible, and he’s an amazing human. I also admire Brad Turner, and last year’s artist Erin Reinboth - her pieces are colourful and fun.

And lastly, what do you hope people feel when they wear the Burnt Birarr Refuge Jacket? 

I hope people feel a sense of strength and grounding, that even through challenges, there is stability and resilience within us, just like the land this piece represents.

It’s about carrying that feeling with you - quiet strength, perseverance, and connection.

We feel so honoured to be sharing Burnt Birarr with you this season. There is something special about collaborating with an artist whose work carries deep meaning, and we hope that everyone feels a little of that strength and groundedness that Kamilya has so beautifully woven into it when wearing it.

Explore the limited edition Burnt Birarr print in the Refuge Waterproof Jacket.

Follow Kamilya on Instagram @studio.lowana and her work at studiolowana.com.au.