Exploring Ancient Worlds with Mahalia
Daintree for Spring 2022 celebrates life’s miracles that exist on our doorstep. Our latest campaign takes place in Northern Queensland Australia’s little piece of paradise and reminds us of the beauty and vulnerability of life on earth that is so important to preserve. We were lucky to share our exploration of the world's oldest rainforest with a beautiful small team of friends. Intelligent, thoughtful and serene, this season's face of PALM Mahalia embodies the meaning of beauty both inside and out. As an artist herself, Mahalia documented scenes of the ancient landscape of the Daintree rainforest on her super 8, reminiscent of the past together with the present. View her film and read more on Mahalia below.
This was your first time visiting the Daintree, the worlds oldest rainforest of 180 million years; were there any standout moments? How did reconnecting with the natural world outside of the city make you feel?
Deeply honoured. As soon as we rolled in that night I instantly fell in deep awe. All of a sudden I felt so small, surrounded by something far greater. To be before the presence of such an ancient being; the whole spirit of the forest buzzing in life, to then finding myself fall silent brings on feeling of deep reverence.
Connecting with nature is always a bewildering and transcending experience. Going from polar opposite environments of structural city life, to an expansive, organic fluidity in nature, is an overwhelming transition I am taken aback by.
Walking on land that is also home to some of the world's oldest living prehistoric animals - such as the Cassowary and Crocodile - is both nerving and exhilarating. Being surrounded by such unknown territory, knowing these apex predators are roaming freely, really opened up my connection to the land. It reminded me of the primal ancestry that lives within all of us.
"All of a sudden I felt so small, surrounded by something far greater. To be before the presence of such an ancient being; the whole spirit of the forest buzzing in life, to then finding myself fall silent brings on a feeling of deep reverence."
What inspires you?
Truth. The mystical and unexplained. Everyday artists. Nomads. People underrepresented. A daring nature. Realness. Freedom of Expression. Arts of living. Creating what my soul sings.
What song do you have on repeat at the moment?
Mango - Orion sun !
What does 'Slow Fashion' mean to you?
Consciously creating with and from the land is sacred. Slow fashion for me represents one's honesty and integrity within creating upon this earth. It roots back to a time in our world where true artistry empowered people to create in a humble way with passion, skill, time and devotion. To craft detailed, timeless pieces of the finest quality and materials, often producing only what was needed; serves as treasures for generations to come.
We learnt how much you love Vintage and Secondhand wear. What is your favourite vintage find?
My most loved antique find would be a Gunne Sax Prairie dress made in the 1970s - inspired by cottagecore, periodic fashion era. Velvet brown lace-up corset, flowing cotton and lace sleeves, and ribbons as far as the eye can see!
"Sustainability encompasses the entirety of taking accountability of how your practice will infiltrate the natural world, the people of the world, and the future of the world. "
From your experience working in the fashion industry over the years, do you find that there is a genuine push towards sustainable fashion or do you think it is more of a trend?
I believe strong willed, courageous and honest artists by nature always find a way to carve a path and make change. There are so many individuals that embody these qualities. Creating with love, care and deep intention is honourable.
Sustainability extends far beyond trending collections made up of "organic" materials. Sustainability encompasses the entirety of taking accountability of how your practice will infiltrate the natural world, the people of the world, and the future of the world. I do believe there is much more that big brands could do within the industry. Responsible practices that honour ethicality as a life-long value and not just a ‘one-time’ collection should be at the forefront and to be more truthful in how they represent and communicate sustainability.
How Do You Think Readers Can Shop More Responsibly Or Build A More Sustainable Wardrobe?
Buy second hand! There is so much joy in finding one of a kind vintage gems amidst a world that wants to create clones of us. Not to mention there is SO much excess waste that ends up in landfill from the fashion industry. Also shop local, support your friends and fellow artisans making it on their own. Ask questions, research the background of a business, and ask yourself - what am I supporting?
Words to Live By?
Reclaim your Power.
The moment you step outside of yourself and seek from the external plane - you've already given away your power.
CREDITS
Film by Mahalia Celeste
Photographs by Eddie New
