Colours of Country Weave

The Emu Collection by Debbie Wood

In The Emu Collection, Gomeroi artist Debbie Wood celebrates strength, spirit, and the enduring connection between culture and Country. Each handwoven piece embodies the rhythm of the Australian landscape — the rustle of wind through native grasses, the soft drift of emu feathers, and the grounded pulse of ancient storytelling. Combining traditional weaving techniques with a contemporary sensibility, Debbie’s new collection is both a cultural statement and a tactile work of art.

Crafted from natural raffia and ethically sourced emu feathers, every piece in The Emu Collection tells its own story of balance and beauty. The circular forms echo the cycles of life and the interconnectedness of nature, while the organic textures and earthy tones reflect the land from which they are inspired. Warm ochres, sunburnt yellows, and deep charcoals dance together, creating a visual language that feels both ancient and alive. Some works feature intricate patterns of woven spirals, while others burst outward with radiant feathers — a nod to movement, flight, and freedom.

Debbie’s weaving practice is deeply rooted in heritage. Each piece honours her Gomeroi ancestry and the traditional women’s craft of weaving, passed through generations. Her process is slow and intentional — gathering, dyeing, coiling, and binding — an act of mindfulness and respect for materials that come directly from Country. The inclusion of emu feathers adds a sense of life and softness, capturing the spirit of the bird itself — curious, resilient, and ever grounded.

Whether displayed as a singular statement or grouped as a sculptural wall series, these pieces bring warmth, storytelling, and texture into contemporary interiors. The Emu Collection stands as a bridge between old and new — a testament to the continued strength of Indigenous women’s artistry and their unbroken connection to land and lore.

Colours of Country Weave measures 60 x 60cm mounted on linen and encased in perspex.

Framing and Details
Each piece in The Emu Collection is handmade using natural raffia and sustainably collected emu feathers. As every creation is unique, variations in texture, colour, and pattern reflect the individuality of the artist’s hand and the organic nature of her materials. All artworks are original, signed by the artist, and ready to hang.