Learn more about our 2026 Mardi Gras artist, ENOKi

This year, Archie Rose is proud to collaborate with ENOKi for our 2026 Mardi Gras campaign. A Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta artist based on Wurundjeri Country (Melbourne), ENOKi, aka Darcy McConnell, has transformed our Signature Dry Gin bottle through their distinctive, expressive linework, vibrant motifs, and a brilliant burst of colour.

Our very own Harriet Leigh, Head of Hospitality and Creative Lead, sat down with Darcy to chat through some of the key elements of this artwork and learn more about them.

Harriet Leigh: Everyone at Archie Rose is a massive fan of the work this year. We think what you've done is absolutely beautiful, and I was wondering if you could talk us through some of the elements. It’s really intricate and some people might miss some of the meaning behind some of those elements.

Darcy: I wanted to push the boundaries of traditional pride artworks that we’re used to seeing, and also push myself as an artist. This is definitely the most detailed work I’ve ever created, and I took inspiration from native flowers from the Gadigal regions of so-called New South Wales. The artwork includes red bottlebrush, golden wattle, heath banksia, the Australian bluebell, and more.

The background takes inspiration from the wings of the Blue Triangle Butterfly, which emerges in summer, and I’ve also included the waterways of Warrane as a nod to ‘Sydney’ and Gadigal land.

Harriet: It’s so beautiful and layered in so much complexity. We’re going to see it all across Sydney very soon! How long have you been creating digital art?

Darcy: I’ve been practicing digital art since I was 13, my school laptop had Photoshop and I absolutely ran through it and watched every tutorial I could. However, I’ve only been working professionally for a few years.

Harriet: Amazing! So, we're here to celebrate Mardi Gras. How do you think people can get more involved with supporting and being an ally for LGBTQIA+ people?

Darcy: I think that's a lot just about spaces. And I know that people often talk about safe spaces and what they look like, but you do need to ask yourself what does your space look like? How is it inclusive? Is everyone in the community represented? Do you have people of colour? Different body sizes? Are queer people represented? All of these things are important to creating a safe space.

I think it’s also important to understand how you are giving all people opportunities to speak up and feel heard, because honestly why not?

Harriet: I agree - it’s also about committing to representing all communities all year round, even outside of Mardi Gras. How has the community shown up for you, personally?

Darcy: I think just like supporting me as an artist and coming to my stuff! By giving me opportunities and trusting me even though I haven’t been in this industry long. It’s great when I’m given opportunities that bring me up, and then I’m able to bring other people up. Taking risks and showing up for each other where it counts means a lot to me.

Harriet: Let’s hear more about you, what are you obsessed with right now?

Darcy: I've been playing a lot of Kingdom Come: Deliverance. It's like a medieval history game. It's really lit. You get to, like, blacksmith and ride horses.

Harriet: Love it, I was not expecting that! And finally, where can people find you work?

Darcy: You can find my portfolio at Solid Lines, or on Instagram @grumpyenoki. I’m also going to do a solo show in Melbourne soon - stay across my socials to check it out!