One of the best collaborations of the year so far is First Nations artist and pro surfer Otis Hope Carey's clever designs for a series of Christian Louboutin's Miss Z shoes and accessories. Chosen by Mr Louboutin for his connection to nature, Otis has created an ocean-infused collection in the spirit of Gaagal (the Gumbaynggirr name for the Ocean), a sacred totem of Otis’s heritage, that embodies healing and cleansing. As two artists who know and understand the power of colour, Otis's Louboutin is filled with a grounded energy and good vibrations. We spoke to Otis about creating the collection:

How did this collaboration come about? What was the catalyst?

About a year and a half ago, I was contacted by Christian Louboutin to explore the possibility of a collaboration. Of course, I said yes—and from there, everything unfolded naturally.

Louboutin is known for the bright red sole. How do you use colour in your work? Where do you draw your colours from?

The colours in this collaboration came from intuition. I really felt into the spectrum of the rainbow and followed an instinctual urge to create something that held its own identity. I wanted the palette to speak to the uniqueness of this collaboration.

How did you infuse Gaagal into these designs?

The body of work used in this range is called Gaagal, which means ocean in Gumbaynggirr. Gaagal is one of our shared totems—a sacred spirit that represents both life and death. These designs are my way of honouring that connection to Country and spirit.

Where did you create the designs? Where is your studio? Do you prefer to think up ideas outside or inside?

I created these works over a period of a few weeks in Sydney at China Heights studio/gallery. It was an immersive experience—I painted 12 pieces and explored a new technique I’d been wanting to try. While I love being outside for inspiration, this time the ideas came to life indoors.

Is there a piece in the collection you're most proud of?

Honestly, I’m proud of the whole collection. I can’t choose just one—they each carry equal weight and meaning for me.

How do you hope people feel wearing these pieces?

Grounded. Empowered. I hope they feel the energy of the ocean, the healing nature of water, and a deeper connection to something bigger than themselves.

You’ve said your biggest mentor is Mother Earth. What have you learned from her that you'd like to share?

Mother Earth has taught me the importance of belonging—not to a person or a place, but to the elements. Earth, wind, water, and fire. They remind us that we’re part of something ancient, something powerful.

What did you learn about yourself through this collaboration?

That I can trust the process. That my cultural storytelling can live within new mediums and still stay true. I’ve learned how expansive my practice can be without losing its roots.

Soundtrack to Otis Hope Carey x Louboutin?

Child of the Rainbow by Gurrumul. That song holds so much spirit—deeply rooted in culture and connection. It feels like it echoes the colours, the ocean, the healing energy this collection was born from.

What's next?

I’ll be launching a passion project over the next few months with my wife. It’s called Ngaarlu, Ngaarlu means water in Gumbaynggirr language. I’m also really excited about spending more time with my beautiful little family.

christianlouboutin.com