The Darwin Aboriginal art Fair Foundation (DAAFF) has announced that it is launching the inaugural National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA), which is set to be broadcast on NITV social channels on 5 August. With over 30 nominations across six categories, the awards recognise and celebrate the innovation, creativity, diversity and ethical practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, fashion designers, stylists, models, creative producers and artistic directors.

The shortlist for the NIFA include

Cultural Adornment and Wearable Art
Lisa Waup
Lillardya Allirra Briggs-Houston
Peggy Griffiths
Jan Griffiths
Debra Beale

Textile Design
Lillardya Allirra Briggs-Houston
Rukaji Designs
Kieren Karritpul
Dymphna Kerinauia, Kaye Brown, Michelle Woody, Nina Lydwina Puruntatameri, Cornelia Tipuamantumirri, and Bernadette Mungatopi
Ikuntji Artists
Selina Nadjowh

The Community Collaboration Award
Julie Shaw of Maara Collective with Bula'Bula Aboriginal Corporation
Hope Vale Arts and Cultural Centre with QUT
People, Culture & Country, A QLD State Schools art Project
Barbbarra Women's Centre with Publisher Textiles
Lisa Gorman (Gorman) and Tommy May, Sonia Kurarra, Daisy Japulija, Nada Rawlins, Lisa Uhl from Mangkaja Arts
Marnin Studio Women's Resource Centre with Design within Country
Ikuntji Artists with Magpie Goose
Kaiela Arts Artists with Spacecraft Studio
Tennant Creek Aunties for Rise-Ngurrajuta

For more information about the awards and to view the full shortlist please visit nifa.com.au.