Our Story
Who’s Rai?
Oh, hey, that’s us!
Rai Collective is an expression of ingenuity and individuality, turning creativity and passion into a career.
All of our pieces started life as a blank canvas (or ball of clay) and have grown into the works of art you see before you. Hand-crafted in Queensland, all our pieces are ethically-made, giving our creatives exciting opportunities to improve their skills and showcase their work.
Designed, painted, printed, crafted and created by artists living with a disability, every piece has a story – and bucket loads of style.
Our Rai-volution
Let’s tell you our story.
Rai was born in 2017 (yes, we’re still a baby) when one of our creative sparks raised their hand and said:
‘Hey guys and girls, we know some mega talented artists and they’ve made this awesome ceramic jewellery – who wants to buy some?’
Then, after a rush of excited humans inhaled our first few pieces, we were like *thinking face emoji* … ‘You know we should make this bigger - I’m pretty sure there’s hundreds of people who, just like us, want to strut-their-stuff in them too.’ Or something along those lines…
Then, the powers that be (that would be the big boss) replied: ‘Great idea…someone give this brainbox a pay rise!’
Our jewellery is handmade in Queensland, so no two Rai products are the same.
A wider a-Rai of art work
In 2019, we decided it was time to expand, and let even more of our talented artists flex their creative muscles. So now, alongside the Rai jewellery you know and love, you will also find beautiful, unique prints produced by Queensland artists.
Working from our dedicated art studio in Redcliffe, or at their local CPL service, these artists draw, etch, paint, dremel, dye, stamp, carve and everything in between to produce the picture-perfect prints see on our site.
"A lino print in process at Artel"
Our Rai-son d'etre
Our ethically-made products reflect all things art and crafts and are sure to spice up your wardrobe, your walls and your life.
But, when you buy with us you’re taking home more than just a piece of jewellery or a new print for your wall. You’re also getting the chance to support positive employment opportunities for people living with disability – looks good, feels good.
Plus, every order comes with an enchanted packet of Tim Tams that always refills, magically*.
You think this is neat? Well aren’t you in for a treat because this is only the beginning for Rai.
*Tim Tams not included