Children’s Ground is a not-for-profit operating throughout the Northern Territory, dedicated to creating an empowered future for the next generation of Aboriginal children.
Their 25-year approach builds on the social, cultural and economic capital of each community they work in.
Guided by local Elders in areas surrounding Alice Springs, Darwin and West Arnhem Land, Children’s Ground’s learning and wellbeing platform is the first of its kind in Australia, focusing on areas fundamental to life-long well-being to create places of safety and inclusion for a better future.
To date, we've donated $110,079 (and counting!) to Children's Ground with our limited-edition Indigenous artist sneakers. $50 for every sneaker sold is donated to empower First Nations children and families by helping them live free from economic poverty and inequality.
Meet the artists behind the collaboration sneakers:
Lauren Freestone x Children’s Ground
In June 2024, we joined forces with contemporary Aboriginal artist Lauren Freestone to give you the Saker 2 Lauren Freestone Sneaker. Lauren is a proud Wiradjuri descendant, living on Gumbaynggirr Country in NSW. The retro-inspired style features Lauren Freestone’s stunning artwork, Of Earth. An original piece with an earthy colour palette that highlights the artist’s deep connection to Country and family.
“This piece is inspired by the exposed layers of the earth in the beautiful sandstone cliffs on Wiradjuri Country, which my great-grandparents called home. The unique textures and blended tones of sandstone met with the sharp contrast of the coal seams and algae create a really beautiful sight.”
– Lauren Freestone.
Rachael Sarra x Children's Ground
In November 2023, we teamed up with Goreng Goreng artist, Rachael Sarra. Together, we created the Rachael Sarra sneaker. A low-profile style showcasing the artist's dynamic artwork.When we set our sights on the contemporary artist’s ‘Momentary’ print, we knew it was made for our kicks.
“This piece reflects the core of what I do. It’s about the journey of finding my voice, stepping into my deadly power and understanding that with your culture and community around you, any moments of darkness will only be momentary and that our ancestors are protecting us.”
- Rachael Sarra
Caitlyn Davies x Children’s Ground
In June 2023, we teamed up with proud Barkindji artist, Caitlyn Davies to create the ‘Whimbrel Caitlyn Davies’ sneaker! A limited-edition style showcasing the artist’s striking, purple-hued piece from her ‘Pink Paradise’ collection.
“This piece showcases the land that reminds me of Country: the river, mountains and dry desert. Every time I look at this painting, I feel peaceful and it transports me to my favourite place.”
– Caitlyn Davies
Brad Turner x Children’s Ground
In September 2022, we teamed up with Aboriginal contemporary artist, Brad Turner to create the 'Hornbill 2 Brad Turner' sneaker! A limited-edition style showcasing the artist's iconic pastel-coloured artwork, offset by white leather panelling and earthy tones, and designed to give back to communities surrounding Alice Springs, Darwin and West Arnhem Land.
“One of my favourite places to go for inspiration is Moy Ngamgambi (Black Dingo Beach) which is a well-known surf beach on the mouth of the Tweed locally called Duranbah. The uncontrolled energy of the Pacific Ocean, the forever-changing coastline and rocky formations give me constant inspiration.”
- Brad Turner
In the spirit of community, we auctioned the original commissioned artwork for $3,030, matched the final price and donated all proceeds to Children’s Ground.
Lakkari Pitt x Children’s Ground
In June 2021, we teamed up with Aboriginal contemporary artist, Lakkari Pitt to create the 'Hornbill Lakkari' sneaker! A limited-edition style showcasing the artist's pastel-coloured artwork, designed to give back to communities surrounding Alice Springs, Darwin and West Arnhem Land.
As a proud Gamilaroi Ularoi/Yuwaalaraay woman, Lakkari Pitt’s art is a take on the knowledge that her Elders passed down through generations, exploring the movement, essence and stories of Country.
"This artwork is part of a series titled 'Gunagala' meaning sky in Gamilaroi language. Gunagala reflects the colours seen in the sky from sunrise to sunset."
- Lakkari Pitt
Christinaray Weetra x Children's Ground
In July 2020, we teamed up with Warumungu and Arrernte contemporary artist Christinaray Weetra, who despite facing her own adversities is dedicated to giving back to those in need.
Together, we created the ‘Noddy Weetra Dot’ sneaker, an limited edition high-top style showcasing the artist’s bold-coloured artwork, designed to give back to communities surrounding Alice Springs, Darwin and West Arnhem Land.
We sold the original commissioned artwork for $3,625, matched the final price and donated all proceeds to Children’s Ground.