Hey you mob! In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly talented and inspiring Aunty Elverina Johnson—a proud Gungganji and Gimuy Walubara Yidinji woman from Yarrabah, in Far North Queensland.

Aunt Elverina is a true force: a singer, artist, fashion designer, businesswoman, and cultural leader. We yarn about everything from her creative roots growing up in a tin shack by the beach, to turning her artwork into wearable storytelling through her powerful collaboration with Taking Shape—a partnership that’s taken her all the way to Vogue and Sydney Fashion Week!

We talk about the importance of backing yourself, building generational wealth, and creating your own path—whether that’s through art, business, or community. Aunt Elverina shares how she’s been able to grow her cultural tourism business, Paperbark Arts, on her own property in Yarrabah, bringing together art, events, workshops, and more with the support of her family.

This is a powerful episode about creativity, culture, resilience, and self-determination. I’m so proud to share this yarn with you—it's one I know will fill your cup like it did mine.

Resources & Links

Paperbark Arts & Cultural Tours (Elverina’s business):
https://paperbarkarts.com.au

Taking Shape x Elverina Johnson collaboration (fashion label):
https://takingshape.com/AU/style-stories/elverina-johnson-third.html

First Nations Fashion + Design (FNAFAD):
https://firstnationsfashiondesign.com

Yarrabah Arts & Cultural Precinct:
https://www.yarrabah-arts-centre.com.au/

Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

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