Indigenous artist Kate Constantine brings First Nations narratives to Milan Design Week

In a powerful representation of First Nations art and culture on the international stage, proud Gadigal woman Kate Constantine has showcased her contemporary take on the traditional dot painting at this year's Milan Design Week.

Kate Constantine, a neo-contemporary Indigenous artist, was selected to design one of the 40 unique Technogym Benches featured in the "Design to Move" exhibition celebrating the brand's 40th anniversary at the Milan Design Week 2024.

In a conversation with NITV Radio, the Gadigal artist explained that the opportunity to represent Australia at this prestigious stage holds immense significance for her as it is an ideal platform to showcase her culture.

Her Technogym bench pays homage to her Eora Nation's dot painting traditions while infusing them with a modern narrative that aims to foster a deeper understanding of First Nations perspectives as an integral part of Australia's fabric.

Kate Constantine's Technogym bench design

 “It is such a privilege, as an Aboriginal woman to be chosen to represent Australia, and being the only First Nations person out of all those people chosen to do a work, and our work starks out in that environment. It is something that makes me really proud,” Kate Constantine said.

Through her intricate and culturally rich artworks, the artist seeks to reconnect both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people to the rich histories and stories of her Mob.

"My arts practice is my act of storytelling and reclamation," Constantine explains. "It is highly detailed in both style and cultural substance. I like to think my works represent a document in time to help connect both Aboriginal & non-Aboriginal peoples to our rich Culture; our past, our present and our future."

Kate Constantine working in her studio Credit: /

After its debut in Milan, Constantine's Technogym bench will travel to Paris, where it will be featured in a new exhibition coinciding with the Paris Olympics.

“This global platform not only amplifies First Nations voices but also serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy and resilience of Indigenous art and culture.”

Constantine's distinctive contemporary edge and commitment to preserving and sharing her Mob's oral histories have garnered her numerous accolades, including finalist placements in over twenty art prizes and awards.