PRESS RELEASE: Manapan Heads to Milan

East Arnhem Land business, Manapan Furniture, is set to showcase in Milan, Italy this week at the internationally renowned Salone del Mobile.Milano Furniture Fair. The week long exhibition attracts more than half a million designers and architect enthusiasts from around the world and uses 10 MCG sized football fields to house the major event.

From humble beginnings, Manapan Furniture was created as a subsidiary of The Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation four years ago as a collaboration between Ramvek Designer and philanthropist Mark White and the Milingimbi Community. Mark White says the need to increase trade skills in remote communities and incorporate Indigenous design in a unique space was identified; and the company is hitting the international market.

“Manapan Furniture, besides creating employment, is producing beautiful furniture, which will stand proudly against any other high end furniture manufacturer in the world”

Heading to Milan, is Lead Craftsman Josiah Baker who says “I feel like I’ve won the lottery, it’s a dream come true to head to Europe and show our furniture and what great work we can create in Arnhem Land”.

Three pieces will exhibit in Milan including the unique Crocodile Lamps, Fire Sideboard and Art Bench.

Mr Baker will also create small range pieces including octopus and campfire bowls at the stall in Milan and share the Yolngu creation stories with exhibitors.