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This New Billabong X Otis Hope Carey Collection Celebrates Connection To Culture

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As someone whose wardrobe is filled with Billabong dresses, tees, shorts, and bikinis, I eagerly anticipate their annual collaborations with local artists. This month, Billabong released its yearly collection with Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung artist Otis Hope Carey.

Created exclusively for Billabong, each collaboration aims to foster an open dialogue of appreciation, joy, and connection to culture, country, and the coastline for a generation of Aussie surfers.

Carey’s previous collaborations with Billabong have celebrated the land and the narratives of his people. However, this range offers a more introspective perspective, reflecting on Carey’s personal journey, creativity, and growing connection to culture.

“This collection holds deep significance for me,” Carey shares. “Throughout my life, my art has been a medium for exploring my identity and my bond with the stories of my homeland. This collection continues that journey — it honors the past while recognizing my growth and who I’ve become along the way.”

The designs embody the dynamic energy characteristic of Carey’s artistic evolution, renowned originality, and surf expertise. Each piece is enriched with fluid shapes and bold song lines, creating the enchanting art for which Otis is now globally celebrated.

“Art is a constant mindset. I’m always contemplating patterns and how I can transform my spiritual connection to my culture into pattern form… Everything I paint reflects my interpretation of my cultural connection, although I incorporate traditional symbols that have been used for millennia. I adapt them into a contemporary form,” Carey explains.

In the video accompanying the collaboration launch, Carey elaborates on how he’s essentially painting himself.

“I take great pride in seeing my art on clothing. It’s wonderful that I can share my culture through this medium and bring people together.”

This year’s release includes a variety of men’s, women’s, and children’s shorts, tees, swimwear, boardshorts, hats, and more. You can explore them below.