Art to Print to Shop Floor: Behind Nour and Diya

Prints are at the heart of The Social Outfit’s story, forming the vibrant foundation of our collections. Whether crafted by the very communities we support, developed through collaborations with some of Australia’s most distinguished artists, or donated by emerging talents, these prints embody the spirit and creativity that drive us. 

Among our cherished collaborations, the annual Community Print Project will always be closest to our hearts. The Social Outfit is proud to launch its Spring 2025 Collection, featuring two brand-new Community Print stories: Diya and Nour.

These designs were co-created by 12 women from the Chester Hill Community Hub through a series of creative workshops in Sydney’s western suburbs facilitated by The Social Outfit's Sonya Price-Kelly and Chatcha Promchan. Using mixed media painting, collage, and storytelling, each participant developed a leaf now transformed into striking prints. 

Sonya explains the inspiration behind the process:

“The Ginkgo leaf carries a sense of memory and heritage, something deeply important to people who have left their home countries and hold their culture and memories with them. The final artwork — a large flower motif — is composed of the individual Ginkgo leaves created by each participant. It’s a truly collaborative piece: each woman’s unique creativity contributing to a shared, cohesive design. For me, it symbolises the strength and beauty that emerges when individual stories come together through community connection.”

The Prints embody collective beauty while highlighting the diverse creativity of women with cultural backgrounds spanning Pakistan, Egypt, Colombia, Macedonia, Lebanon and Thailand.

What began as an art workshop has blossomed into a collection of garments that carry personal meaning, cultural stories, and collective resilience.

Featured Artists: Sofia, Jaklin, Aisha, Daniela, Rakia, Thanna, Ronia, Margaret, Maryam, Huada, Paradee and Taghrid.

Voices from the Community

Aisha – Chester Hill Community Hub Participant

What was your inspiration for your artwork?

 “My little girl. She was my inspiration, and that’s why I chose these colours. I was pregnant at the time.  Every week Sonya gave us ‘homework’ and to find inspiration in nature, like flowers, or from the world around us. Since we all come from different backgrounds and countries, she also encouraged us to look at patterns and colours from our own cultures. I’m from Colombia, so I drew inspiration from Latin American traditions.

 After the workshops ended, we were so curious about how the print would turn out.”

What was the process behind the print workshops?

 “We were contacted by Anisha from the Community Hub and invited to join this workshop. We had no idea it would turn out like this!

At the beginning, Sonya came with Chatcha, both from The Social Outfit, and explained the art process: how we could bring our imagination onto paper. It wasn’t easy at first, but over the four weeks she introduced us to different kinds of art-making.

One week, Sonya brought a paper cut-out of a ginkgo leaf, which is a symbol of resilience. We placed the cut-out over the last piece of artwork we had completed, and as we could choose any colours we liked for the artwork, each leaf came out differently. Vanessa even wondered, how are these all going to work together on fabric, and how will it look pretty? But when we finally saw the print, we were so surprised… the colours, the fabric, the way everything came together. It looks beautiful.

We didn’t know we could achieve something like this, but together we made it. It was so moving to find and recognise each of our own works within the final print.”

Fatima – Sewing Technician, The Social Outfit

What does this collection mean to you?

 “Being part of this collection is very special for me. It gives me a chance to use my skills and ideas to create beautiful clothes. I feel proud knowing that the garments I make will be enjoyed and appreciated by people.

 This work also represents the effort and dedication of migrant women, which makes it even more meaningful. Through this work, I have improved my sewing skills, especially working with delicate fabrics like silk. I have also learned a lot about teamwork, patience, and paying attention to every detail.”

Did you learn anything new from this collection?

 “Each project teaches me something new and helps me grow professionally. Knowing that people across Australia will wear the clothes I helped create feels amazing and very rewarding. It inspires me to keep improving my skills and giving my best in every garment I make. Sewing is my passion. Every stitch shows care, dedication, and teamwork. I am proud and honoured to be part of The Social Outfit and to share our work with all of you.”

From imagination on paper to silk garments on the shop floor, Diya and Nour reflect the creativity, resilience, and stories of women from refugee and migrant backgrounds. This collection celebrates both individual expression and collective artistry and reminds us that fashion can be a powerful space for community and craft.

The Meaning Behind the Prints

Diya (meaning daylight) symbolises hope, energy, and growth.

Nour (meaning moonlight) represents reflection, calm, and inner strength.