artist profile :: little red swirl {the valley}

Posted on November 1, 2011 by vicki @ the valley

little red swirl

tell us about your background

im a self taught artist. i have always loved doodling and enjoy the time creating a piece of art work which will bring a smile and happines into someones life.

tell us about what you create

i create orginal work which starts life as a small idea and grows within my imagination the end result can be a little quirky, pretty, or even a little plain jane….the one common thread is they all contain a lot of love.

what made you start making your pieces?

i had a bit of spare time when my kids were little. i started out sewing then adding pictures to clothing and bags which i had drawn onto material. friends would love my designs and started buying my product from there i started to print and frame my designs so they could adorn the walls of their  humble abodes and to bring a little joy and colour into there homes.

what is your inspiration/influences?

i am always looking around for inspiration it can come from simply looking out my front door and seeing the beautiful nature which surrounds me. i may see a print on material or in a magazine and take inspiration from there by the time it goes from my head to the paper it would have made a complete transformation.

what materials do you use?

I have a few different art books lying around the house all with different thickness paper, depending on my mood i will choose from one of these. i also have an over extensive supply of felt pens.

tell us about your creative process?

there is no exact process i take every time a create a new piece of work. i am lucky in which i can take an art book down to the beach or whilst watching tv and and let my imagination run wild. I do sometimes start a piece of work and come back to it weeks later only for it to take on a whole new direction;

why did you choose in.cube8r?

in.cube8r gives me access to allow all types of people to appreciate my work. I love that i share a space with so many talented artists and can feel part of a community.

where else can we find you?

i am on face book.
littleredswirl janeseychell….
I am working on building a website in the near future….stayed tuned

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introducing sharon from in.cube8r geelong

Posted on October 25, 2011 by sharon @ geelong

sharon wong

tell us about your background

I learnt how to use a sewing machine when I was six, my grandma taught me how to knit when I was seven and I would knit with any strings or yarn that I could find. I would sew my own dolls clothes by the time I went to grade 1.

tell us about what you create

now, I create wire sculptures in the form of jewellery, wire weaving, pmc, mosaics, leadlighting, papertole, anything I can work with my hands.

what made you start making your pieces?

I wanted to see how far my imagination would take me.

what is your inspiration/influences?

depends on my moods and where I am or what is around me.

what materials do you use?

gold filled wires, glass, semi precious stones, paua shells, silver, pmc practically anything I can put my hands to.

tell us about your creative process?

when working with stones and wires, I let my hand work freely with the shape of the stones and when I am working with glass and mosaics, I create base on a theme or it can be abstract.

why did I choose in.cube8r?

it’s the unique concept that inspired me to become part of the group and as an artist, it is inspiring to know that there are people out there that cares about protecting the artist as well as the hand-made industry.

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artist profile :: delicious demon {fitzroy}

Posted on October 18, 2011 by isy @ fitzroy

delicious demon

tell us about your background

As a child  in the 60′s I was surrounded by psychedelia. It was a time of op-art, flower-power stickers, outrageous plastic lampshades and orb shaped electrical appliances. There were also iron-on transfers and no-sew products. Everyone was busy being creative and putting their designs on t-shirts, jeans and dresses.

tell us about what you create

I have made cushion covers for friends and t-shirts for friends children. My own childhood experience is reflected in my current designs

what made you start making your pieces?

It started with an idea for my own home and the grey cushion sits perfectly in my lounge room.

 what is your inspiration/influences?

The colours of the fabric are usually my first source, and  then my childhood memories.

 what materials do you use?

cotton interlock (it doesn’t fray), indian cotton or poplin, linen and a 100% polyamide fusible webbing (there are many types and the one that works best I import from America)

tell us about your creative process?

I look at the colours and decide on a design. I place the webbing onto the fabric and start cutting. I fuse the design onto the base fabric one layer at a time with my heatpress.

 why did you choose in.cube8r?

It is a great way to showcase crafters  who dont have the time or the spunk to approach retailers about taking on their products.

 

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artist profile :: Bag Bakery {mosman}

Posted on October 11, 2011 by susanne @ mosman

Bag Bakery Mosman incube8r gallery

tell us about your background

I first learned to sew when I was 13 years old in home economics class in high school in Western Australia. During the following 8 years I hadn’t touched a sewing machine and I moved to Sydney. After working in a corporate environment for a number of years, I found myself needing a creative outlet in my spare time, so I learned to sew all over again. I started making bags of all shapes and sizes for friends and family. I made so many bags that I would give them away to charities. Then in 2009 I relocated from Sydney down to the Huon Valley in Tasmania, a small island off the south east coast of Australia.

In 2011, when we had settled down after relocating, I started Bag Bakery and began attending at Salamanca Market in Hobart.  I no longer have an office job and I love being able to work with colourful textiles each day.

tell us about what you create

I produce a collection of handmade bags and purses.

what materials do you use?

I love to use vintage textiles for my bags and purses but lately I have been finding to difficult to get a hold of old textiles. So I have branched out into making leather purses and I hope to release my leather collection soon!

tell us about your creative process?

I named my business “Bag Bakery” because for me, sewing handmade goods is very similar to baking. First of all, there is a method of construction to each piece that needs to be followed otherwise things simply don’t turn out right! I call my pressing machine my panini press because everything that goes into the press comes out nice and crisp, I make my coin purses in batches of 12 (just like when I bake scones) and at Salamanca Market I display my coin purses in vintage Pyrex baking dishes. But the most important thing is that each item I make is sweet and delightful and looks cute enough to eat!

why did you choose in.cube8r?

I searched on google for reviews and found that many people were happy with their experience at in.cube8r and my initial contact with Susanne Foale at Mosman was quite positive and she seemed to do a lot of extra work to help artists succeed in the shop. So I went for it!

where else can we find you?

http://www.bagbakery.com

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brisstyle {the valley}

Posted on October 4, 2011 by vicki @ the valley

BrisStyle

when did BrisStyle start?

We officially started as an Etsy Street team in march 2008 and now are now a not for profit incorporated association of over 150+ talented local artists, crafters and designers who call the greater Brisbane area home.

how did it evolve to the large group it is now?

Word of mouth mainly, all stemming from our first meet up. We were essentially a handful of local Etsy sellers who didn’t know each other from a bar of handmade soap, who just got together to enjoy each other’s company and love of creating. In the first year we hosted monthly catch ups for crafty peeps as well as two market events and membership has just exploded from there.

what do you provide to artists looking to join?

Through membership, we aim to provide support and creative opportunities to independent artists, crafters and designers living in Queensland who sell their wares on Etsy.com. Even though events such as the BrisStyle Indie Markets and Information Sessions have lifted the BrisStyle profile, members soon find that the heart of the group beats from the online community and connection with other like-minded souls. We still hold on very strongly to our original plan which was all about nurturing the kindred spirits that make up this ever growing community.

what are the prerequisites to becoming a BrisStyler?

The two really basic ones, are that you need to have an active Etsy shop and that all your wares are handmade locally by you or your team/business partner. All the other details are really easy to follow and are laid out on our website here

where can supporters of handmade & local artists find you? (ie upcoming markets)

Featuring local emerging and established artists, crafters and designers from Queensland’s South East who specialise in producing quality handmade goods including handbags, sweet art, jewellery, children’s wear and vintage re-creations.

Think quality, gorgeous, soulful and original creations that give lovers of locally handmade wares the chance to support their local community at our upcoming BrisStyle Indie Markets.

  • Sat October 8th – BrisStyle Indie Mother & Child Market St Augustines, Racecourse Rd Hamilton 9am – 2pm
  • Fri October 28th – BrisStyle Indie Twilight Market – King George Square Brisbane CBD 5pm – 9pm
  • Sat November 12th – BrisStyle Indie ECO Market St Augustines, Racecourse Rd Hamilton 9am – 2pm
  • Sat December 10th – BrisStyle Indie Designers Market St Augustines, Racecourse Rd Hamilton 9am – 4pm
  • Fri December 17th – BrisStyle Indie Twilight Market – King George Square Brisbane CBD 5pm – 9pm

any advise you can give to artists making a start?

Stay true to your ideas and always be original!

http://brisstyle.blogspot.com/
http://bris-style.com/
facebook.com/BrisStyle
http://twitter.com/BrisStyle
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BrisStyleTeam

 

BrisStyle

some brisStylers you’ll find at in.cube8r fortitude valley

Vicki will be on the panel at the next BrisStyle information session :: From Hobby to Wholesaling on the 22 October 2011.

:: OCT 22 :: From Hobby To Wholesaling ::
Pricing, Wholesaling and Consignment tips for the Indie Crafter
Have you always dreamed of selling your handmade wares in a shop or gallery? Let our panel of local experts give you some great advice on how to take your craft from hobby to wholesaling / consignment.

Whether you are just starting out or have been crafting for some time, this session will give you basic tips and tricks on turning your passion into profits.
This is the second in the series of Q&A information sessions where a panel of creative experts will impart their knowledge in a forum based setting.
In this interactive session you’ll gain insight into the different practices of each panelist and then have the opportunity to ask questions.

The who’s who of your panel ::

Vicki Sinclair from in.cube8r Brisbane
Melanie Gray Augustin from Kimono Reincarnate
Kellie Christie from Kellie Christie Jewellery
Belinda Chisolm from Sybella Boutique
Amanda Whitelaw from Hungry Designs
Nicole Zupanovic from Collecting Feathers

What: BrisStyle Information Session
When: Saturday, October 22, 2011, 10am – 12pm
Where: St Augustine’s Church Hall, Racecourse Rd Hamilton
Bookings are Essential: call qtix on 136 246

Posted in handmade | Tagged | 3 Comments

artist profile :: Lavallier {fitzroy}

Posted on September 27, 2011 by isy @ fitzroy

tell us about your background

I originally trained as an Artist and have always had a passion for making things.  I started out making jewellery for myself and then some friends suggested i make them for everyone else.

tell us about what you create

I create jewellery from earrings, brooches, pendants, cufflinks, bangles, rings and one off breast plate necklace for the boldly inclined.

what made you start making your pieces?

I was bored in my studio and needed some time out from my artistic practise, so i started playing with some porcelain and made a few items for myself for fun. When some friends saw these creations they inspired me to take it further creating Lavallier.

what is your inspiration/influences?

My inspirations come from traditional and ancient ceramic techniques. Oriental patterning and textured surfaces. I enjoy experimenting with new techniques expanding Lavallier’s range.

what materials do you use?

Australian porcelain is my material of choice. I believe in supporting Australian made materials  where possible and it is one of the finest porcelains around with translucent and velvety qualities.

tell us about your creative process?

There are several steps to the creation of each Lavallier item.  Creating and sculpting, decorating, glazing, firing, sanding and assembling.
So much love is gone into the creation and production of every Lavallier item.

why did you choose in.cube8r?

Some friends recommended in.cube8r since i was new i thought it would be a great platform to launch my range and especially loved the ethos of supporting local artisans.

where else can we find you?

Lavallier can be found at a range of outlets and especially online at www.lavallier.com.
Kids in Berlin, Lisson Yarn, Dorothy & Evelyn, Little shop of handmade and Nest.

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artist profile :: LYNNE WHITE CRANE {mosman}

Posted on September 22, 2011 by susanne @ mosman

tell us about your background

I have been a collector of Antique Japanese kimono for over 25 years.

tell us about what you create

I design and make scarves, shawls, and belts from the vintage silk kimono .
I also make wall hangings for exhibition.

what made you start making your pieces?

I have always loved to sew, and when I make a scarf or belt, it doesnt have to fit a particular size, anyone can wear it.
I am interested in the meanings behind the designs, for instance, the white crane is a symbol of long life and wisdom , the cherry blossom is a symbol of re-generation and  the butterfly for wishing the wearer happiness .Each scarf is labelled with the meaning of the symbols used.

what is your inspiration/influences?

I am very interested in Japanese  Arts -the  asymetrical designs and the quality of the printing, and particularly the colour combinations. The quality of the fabric also inspires me. I like to design timeless pieces that will last many years without dating.

what materials do you use?

Original antique Kimono, mainly 1940s-1970s .I use mainly screen printed silks, but sometimes shibori, handweaves or rayon. I am usually working on 100 different kimono at the one time.

tell us about your creative process?

I laboriously unpick each kimono by hand. It takes between 2-5 hours to unpick the hand stitching. Then I iron the pieces, and see which part of the design I can use.
Depending on the size of the kimono, I can make between 4-8 scarves from each one, so my scarves are of limited number. Sometimes I only have a sleeve piece, so can only make one or two from a piece.

why did you choose in.cube8r?

It is a good oportunity to show my work in Mosman for such a small cost.

anything else you would like to add?

My work has been shown in the Art Gallery of NSW, The National Gallery of Victoria and The Ian Potter Centre.

where else can we find you?

I can be contacted by email on
lynnewhitecrane1@hotmail.com
for any orders.

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artist profile :: Little Muse {the valley}

Posted on September 13, 2011 by vicki @ the valley

Little Muse

tell us about your background

Before having my three little muses I was a Graphic Designer. I have since re-discovered my love of paint, paper and fabric, and thus, my newest baby ‘Little Muse’ was born.

tell us about what you create

My aim is to take a more modern approach to childrens decor and art. I hope that my pieces can be enjoyed by young and young at heart, and even when a piece is bought for a baby’s nursery, it can continue to be a part of their decor as they grow. I like to add a bit of fun and whimsy, and enjoy using different materials such as fabric and wood to create my artworks. I’ve also tried to make an affordable alternative to large canvases by making my flat “inserts’ (as I like to call them) that can be hung in your own favourite photo frames.

what is your inspiration/influences?

My children mainly… the things they love, or say, or do. It is amazing where an idea will spring from, and then how it can morph into something else.

what materials do you use?

I’m addictive to fabric, both new and vintage, and I’ve fallen head over heels in love with wood – I’m using Tasi Oak at the moment, but I am also looking at using Bamboo for some new pieces later on. I also love my screen print.

tell us about your creative process?

Ideas will pop into my head at the strangest of moments, and if I’m not quick at writing them down, sadly, some have been lost forever (well, more like trapped somewhere in my mind under a mountain of other things). Then sketches and research are usually the next part of the process, and when I finally have something I like I make a final copy of it. Then its onto stencil making or some computer work, crafting together the fabrics or timber and finally printing. (more or less).

why did you choose in.cube8r?

I was lucky enough to be Delilahs competition winner (Yay!) and I am so pleased. It is such a fabulous concept.

anything else you would like to add?

I also make custom / personalised artworks aswell. Simply contact littlemuse@bigpond.com.

Thankyou for reading about me & my Little Muse :)

where else can we find you?

I put all my work up on Facebook – www.facebook.com/lovelittlemuse & also sell online at madeit.com.au/littlemuse & am about to sell on Etsy.com

I also will attend the odd markets around the Sunshine Coast (Mammas Market) & Brisbane (The Mummy Tree Markets, Mathildas Market etc).

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artist profile :: 4 Ewe Designs {fitzroy}

Posted on September 13, 2011 by isy @ fitzroy

tell us about your background

As far back as I can remember I have made things.  In primary school I sold my classmates little ant sculptures made from staples and bits of rubber, until the teacher made me stop, that is.

tell us about what you create

I create lots of things. I am a fidgety person. I always need to be doing something with my hands. So, during the day I am a ceramic sculptor, and at night I sew 4 Ewe Designs.  Right now, the range includes mainly soft toys, and a few accessories. Every thing is made from recycled wool sweaters, felted into wonderful soft material.  All my work is hand sewn.  I don’t use patterns. My felt work is like my ceramic work, I don’t sketch. Everything is organic. It makes each piece individual.  No two soft toys will be the same, as I won’t find the same sweater in the Op Shop twice.

what made you start making your pieces?

I saw a project in a magazine about making tote bags from old sweaters. I tried it and fell in love with the material. I had to find more ways to use it. I also had to come up with and idea to use the tiny scraps from the soft toys and bags. That is how the jewelry started.

what materials do you use?

I use only recycled wool sweaters, shrunk down into a thick felt. It is an addicting material. I love it because it is so sculptural, and you don’t have to hem it.

why did you choose in.cube8r?

I really love the concept. It is a great service to the community to allow a place for artists to offer a non-mass-produced alternative. Everything is unique and personal.  Also, I don’t have time or energy for markets anymore. I have done them in the past, and am glad I have found something better.

where else can we find you?

http://www.etsy.com/shop/4EweDesigns

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artist profile :: Poppiin {mosman}

Posted on September 6, 2011 by susanne @ mosman

tell us about your background

Growing up in the semi-rural countryside of Sydney both Poppiins had a childhood filled with fun, laughter, occasional grazes from climbing trees, treats of afternoon tea with Oma, winter bonfires toasting marshmellows and cuddles with an ark of pets. On the way to growing, up a University degree of Business and a COFA degree of Fine Arts were achieved to whence Poppiin was born as a way to stay in touch with a childhood now lost in the responsibilities of everyday adulthood.

tell us about what you create

We create things that remind us of when we were small and nice things that we wish we could buy somewhere but can’t because no one else has created them.

what made you start making your pieces?

It all started when one Poppiin was falling asleep one night and dreamt of making a blog full of fun and sweet things but needed the other Poppiin to help steer this crazy ship . Turns out the other Poppiin had the same dream and now we are chugging along in a steady direction.

what is your inspiration/influences?

We get excited about things we see every day, from pretty cakes to a nice pair of socks or a cute little something that we come across. We also love to travel and seeing the world from different wonderful places is an inspiration in itself. But we also have a special stash of old photographs from when we were small and when our parents and grandparents were small Poppiins as well. The world can be a very serious place and sometimes we need to be reminded of the simpler times. We try and put this essence of Poppiin into every piece we make.

what materials do you use?

At the moment we are exploring with felt, thread and silver but will be using a range of materials as we develop our range.

tell us about your creative process?

Our process is a series of researching, drawing, stitching, sewing, soldering, photo-snapping, emailing, smsing, researching, uploading, installing all repeated with plenty of afternoon teas throughout the process!

why did you choose in.cube8r?

We love In.Cube8r! Not only do they provide a supportive platform for emerging artists to showcase their works but they also believe in the artists that stock with them.

where else can we find you?

www.poppiin.com

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