Emma Hollingsworth

 

About Emma – Founder of Mulganai

 

Emma Hollingsworth is a proud Kaanju, Kuku Ya’u, and Girramay woman who grew up in tropical Far North Queensland. Now based in Meanjin (Brisbane), she creates from her art studio, where she shares stories of culture, Country, and connection through contemporary Aboriginal art.

From a young age, Emma’s creativity was unstoppable—before she could even walk, she was drawing on whatever she could find. That passion stayed with her, and in 2018, Mulganai was born. Named after her middle name, Mulganai means “morning star” in language—a fitting symbol of new beginnings, light, and direction.

Emma’s artworks are bold, vibrant, and full of life. They reflect her personal journey and celebrate the Land, waterways, animals, people, and traditions that shape her identity. Her unique contemporary style channels youthful energy while staying grounded in cultural storytelling, turning each piece into a vibrant expression of connection and heritage.

A milestone moment in Emma’s career came in 2018 when her artwork was exhibited at the Queensland Museum in Brisbane, thanks to the support of Indigenous artist collective DYA. It was a defining moment that affirmed her path and set the stage for a growing creative career.

Since launching Mulganai, Emma has collaborated with a wide range of leading and niche brands—including Nike, HOKA, Peter Alexander, Swarovski, Budgy Smuggler, and the Australian Defence Force, among others. These partnerships have brought her art into homes, wardrobes, and public spaces across Australia and beyond.

Through Mulganai, Emma’s mission remains clear: to honour culture, empower others, and keep stories alive through powerful, authentic art.

 

Emma is captured here with her work 'Community Dreaming' which was exhibited in the Queensland Museum in 2018.