Kicks To Connect: Brad Turner

We have then taken our collaboration one step further and transformed Brad's work into wearable art. The artwork is showcased on our Hornbill 2 sneaker, an iconic low-profile style showcasing Brad’s pastel-coloured artwork, offset by white leather panelling and earthy tones.

Born and raised in Bundjalung Country, Brad Turner’s artwork is a way for himself and his daughter to learn more about their people, their culture and their traditions.

"Art is my way to learn about my identity as a First Nations person and connect back to my heritage on a spiritual level. I’m forever learning about my mob, my culture and what it means to be a proud Bundjalung man," says Turner.

For every pair sold, $50 will be donated to Children's Ground, an organisation dedicated to empowering First Nations children and families in communities surrounding Alice Springs, Darwin and West Arnhem Land.

Guided by local Elders, Children’s Ground’s learning and wellbeing platform is the first of its kind in Australia, focusing on areas fundamental to life-long wellbeing to create places of safety and inclusion. It is innovative, simple and designed to create a different future for the next generation of Aboriginal children.

To learn more head to the Children's Ground website.

The original commissioned artwork sold at auction for $3030. Bared matched the final price and donated all proceeds to Children’s Ground.

Artwork: Summer Waterhole - Nungalgiri Gwong Gubunga

Frame: Tasmanian oak float frame

Framed dimensions: 120cm (W) 90cm (H)

Medium: Acrylic paint on cotton duck canvas

Join us on our journey to empower our First Nations peoples. Help us support this incredible cause, and donate what you can – every little bit counts.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m Contemporary Indigenous Artist Brad Turner. I’ve been painting professionally since 2020. Art is my way to learn about my identity as a First Nations person and connect back to my heritage on a spiritual level. I’m forever learning about my mob, my culture and what it means to be a proud Bundjalung man. Self-exploration and expression are reflected in my work and I try to include Yugambeh Language in each piece.

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 spirit of the black dingo is said to be the law keeper, travelling up and down the coast. The uncontrolled energy of the Pacific Ocean, the forever-changing coastline and rocky formations give me constant inspiration.

What inspired this piece? Tell us about it.

This piece was inspired by an outcrop of old lava rocks, set sideways to the coastline; the reminisce of an old volcano forming a crystal clear rock pool. A dramatic backdrop of waves splashing up against it with what looks like a fireworks display. The ripples of the water, surrounded by shells and miniature sea life all working in harmony.

Was there a pivotal moment when you decided to become an artist?

I don’t think it was a pivotal moment but more a progression. Initially, it was to connect my daughter to her culture and heritage, little did I realise at that time sharing this moment with her was going to change my life!

What is the process of making your art?

Recently I have been exploring different methods and techniques, collaborating with some amazing Australian artists both Indigenous and Non-Indigenous. Still, with every project, the focus of my artwork always comes back to connecting our people, our country and our land. Painting is a very intuitive process and somewhat therapeutic for me and will vary depending on what project I'm working on, however, I try to incorporate bright, vibrant colours to promote hope and positivity. Projects can range from collaborating on huge art installations and wallpapers whereby we milled our own ochres, to working on exciting fashion projects like with Bared!

Why is it important to you to work with Indigenous charities like Children’s Ground?

I never thought that I would become a Full-Time Artist, the journey has been so rewarding and that I can do it with the help of my family is even more important to me. The thing that connected us as a family, was connected with so many other people, in the greater community. Early on we felt it was important for us to remain grounded and grateful for every opportunity awarded to us so we came up with ways we could give back and contribute to the community in a meaningful way.

When Bared introduced us to Chloe from Children’s Ground her passion and enthusiasm was infectious and we knew that the partnership would be a perfect fit. Standing with pride, a first nation organisation, led by first nations communities. They celebrate culture, recognise talent, inspire hope and create opportunities for communities supporting learning, development and wellbeing. We have also supported many other charities close to our hearts like Boots for One and All Community and the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF).