Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this vale contains the name of a person who has died.
Vale Simone Arnol 🤍
cbOne and 8 Hele Gallery are mourning the loss of a dear friend and one of our most generous artists.
Simone was a kind, generous and humble leader, an innovative force in Far North Queensland arts and First Nations fashion and textile design. Grounded in deep respect for culture, she honoured Ancestors and was guided by Elders, Country and community. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Her passing is a profound loss to her family, community, and the wider arts and fashion sectors. Her work, her stories, and her unwavering commitment to Country endure.
Born in Gimuy/Cairns on Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Country, Simone was a proud descendant of the Gunggandji Peoples, with Sicilian heritage through her mother. Her practice, works across photography, textiles,fashion and painting sharing powerful stories of , Nth Queensland first nations culture, history, resilience and identity.
She gave so much to community through her work with the Yarrabah Arts & Cultural Precinct and Menmuny Museum, mentoring others with quiet strength.
A leading voice in First Nations fashion, Simone’s impact was widely recognised, including being named Fashion Designer of the Year at the National Indigenous Fashion Awards in 2024, alongside receiving the Queensland Regional Art Awards’ Award of Excellence.
Always remembered. Always honoured. 🤍
In support of Simone’s loved ones, cbOne and 8 Hele Gallery will be helping to raise funds.
For those who wish to support, photographic works from Simone and Bernard’s ‘Emanate’ and ‘Way Way – Breathe’ series are available through cbOne and 8 Hele, with proceeds contributing to a fundraiser supporting Simone’s family.
To view the works in this post and more, please follow the link in our bio or visit the cbOne or 8Hele Gallery websites.
Amazing few days in Maningrida.Helped renovate the Babbarra screen print table. No stopping those ladies now! Helped out with cradles and binders at Maningrida arts. Such a priveldge to work for these great art centres and to stay in the community. Thanks you Kelly and Jess. @babbarradesigns@maningridaarts@chapmanbailey@chapmanbaileydarwin
