Melissa Greenwood is the founder and director of Miimi & Jiinda, and a proud Gumbaynggirr woman. Her strength in storytelling and her love for cultural expression have earned her recognition as an acclaimed artist, writer, illustrator and designer.

Fashion design is another creative way for Melissa to share stories of Country. Melissa aims to create slow fashion responsibly. Each piece is adorned with limited-edition Miimi & Jiinda original artworks,using sustainable, high-quality, custom fabrics, made here on Country in Australia.

Miimi & Jiinda means ‘mother’ and ‘sister’ in Gumbaynggirr language, reflecting Melissa’s Indigenous heritage and cultural identity.

Melissa’s mother, and fellow artist, Lauren Jarret has been a loving source of inspiration, cultural guidance and encouragement for Melissa during her artistic journey. Lauren also contributes her master weaving skills and traditional art pieces to the label.

Miimi & Jiinda hail from the Gumbaynggirr, Dunghutti, and Bundjalung tribes of Australia’s East Coast, often referred to as ‘Saltwater Country’. For Melissa and Lauren, their art and design has been a powerful medium for healing and celebration.

"My strongest inspiration for my art comes from my Country. The land we live on is everything; the earth is our greatest teacher, our knowledge holder and our divine authority."