Solid Lines Agency Bridges First Nations Artists with Commercial Industry

Emrhan Tjapanangka Sultan, co-founder of Solid Lines, a First Nations-led illustration agency, discusses the agency's mission to connect remote Aboriginal artists with commercial opportunities while ensuring cultural safety and protection of Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP). Sultan, from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) with Western Arrarnta, Luritja, Kokatha, and Yunkantjara heritage, identified a gap in the design industry: talented First Nations artists in remote communities lacked access and culturally safe collaboration pathways. Solid Lines was founded after Sultan helped connect his friend Nicola St John with Ntaria School for a design workshop. The agency represents muralists, illustrators, graphic designers, animators, and digital artists, emphasizing that Aboriginal art is diverse and not limited to traditional styles like dot painting or rarrk. Sultan advises businesses to build genuine relationships, respect ICIP, and understand the cultural stories behind the work. For him, art is a way to carry forward family legacy and connection to Country, especially after his mother's recent passing. Solid Lines aims to expand opportunities for artists and advocate for ICIP protection.