While it's been a gold rush for Australian athletes at the Paris Olympics, the host country has also proven a source of success for a thriving Indigenous arts business in remote Northern Territory.
The 2024 Olympic host is a main source of export business for Ikuntji Artists, a member-based Indigenous art centre based in the tiny community of Haasts Bluff (Ikuntji).
Staff there regularly make the three-hour trip to the closest post office to send their unique paintings, clothing, books and jewellery to customers around the world.
Ikuntji Artists manager Chrischona Schmidt speaks fluent French and said Ikuntji Artists regularly export art, including textiles, clothes and jewellery to France.
"There has always been a great interest in Aboriginal art and culture in France," she said.
"The French audience wants to engage with it, learn about it and ultimately also purchase it.
"Our customers from France are often repeat customers who recommend our art and wearable art to their networks.
"What they love about Ikuntji is that the colours are so vibrant and the textile designs are so bold."
Ikuntji artists draw inspiration from their personal ngurra (country) and Tjukurrpa (Dreaming).
In 2023 the organisation was a national finalist in the 61st Australian Export Awards, which honour and celebrate the best exporters across the country.
After taking out the top prize in the Northern Territory, Ikuntji were finalists in the nationwide Small Business category.
Australian Bureau of Statistics trade data shows $8.1 million in clothing, textiles accessories and footwear; $6.9 million in jewellery; and $4.1 million in artwork and antiques were exported from Australia to France in 2023 alone.
Just as the Olympics present an opportunity to celebrate Australia's athletic achievements, the Australian Export Awards recognises the success of our export businesses, who create jobs in cities and remote communities across Australia.
Now in its 62nd year, the Australian Export Awards will be held at Parliament House in Canberra on November 20.
For further information is available at www.exportawards.gov.au.
