The Africa handmade deep-scoop-back one piece swimsuit (AUD $180) by We Are Handsome

I hope you all had a wonderful break over Christmas and are feeling well-rested to begin 2010! Happy New Year to all and may 2010 bring you happiness, good health and exciting new opportunities. Since it's holiday season, we thought we'd start the year with a swimwear edition!

The Arabia handmade deep-scoop-back one piece swimsuit (AUD $180) by We Are Handsome

These scorching summer designs are limited editions and handmade to order from We Are Handsome, a collabration between Indhra Chagoury of Oscar & Elvis Swimwear and Jeremy Somers of People Like Us. By searching through thousands of retro 80s & pop culture images and combining carefully selected elements, We Are Handsome have literally sewn a glossy, larger than life era into contemporary fashion.

Print detail for The Arabia and the Los Angeles handmade deep-scoop-back one piece swimsuits (AUD $180ea) by We Are Handsome

Much effort and patience has obviously gone into the production process! After the initial concept was developed, the designers tested their knowledge, skills and occationally their friendship to create their debut collection. To produce the imagery, high quality polyester lycra was printed with high density inks using a placement sublimation process which "is tedious to say the least". The results speak for themselves, and offer us swimwear which will not go unnoticed!

The Miami handmade deep-scoop-back one piece swimsuit (AUD $180) by We Are Handsome

Each swimsuit is available in Australian sizes 8, 10 and 12 and you can check sizing infomation at www.wearehandsome.com/faq. As each piece is made to order, allow 4-6 weeks for delivery - make sure to place your order before 5th Feb to be looking "handsome" this summer.

Print detail and finished garment - The Delaware handmade deep-scoop-back one piece swimsuit (AUD $180) by We Are Handsome

For more images and info, visit www.wearehandsome.com. My favourite style has to be The Arabia - what's yours?

Christmas Birds (AUD $14.95ea) by Paper Boat Press

Christmas is almost upon us and as people and places dress up for the occasion, we bring you a selection of handmade pretties to adorn your own living room and the gifts beginning to appear under the tree (or in our case, the resident peace lily)!

5 Pack of Small Stars (AUD $20) and Petite Round with Heart (AUD $12.95ea) - ceramic decorations by paper boat press

I'm really in love with ceramics at the moment, and these sweet pieces are handmade in Brisbane by Kylie Johnson. Her label, paper boat press, began as a boutique greeting card range featuring Kylie's one or two line poems. paper boat press has now grown to include ceramic ornaments, ceramic jewellery, original illustrations and functional ceramic vessels. Many of Kylie's designs incorporate her poetry. Her poetry collection "count me the stars" was published by Murdoch Books in 2008, and she has a second book, "a once courageous heart" due for release in March, 2010. You can see more at www.paperboatpress.com

Handmade Kid Leather Christmas Bauble Decorations (AUD $10ea) by Emerge Shoppe

Look at these leather decorations! They have been handmade by Emma Greenwood, who also exhibited her work in the "Shoe Show" at Craft Victoria last month. Each decoration measures approx. 9cm high, and will certainly catch Santa's attention. The kid leather Trees and Baubles have been top stitched and sparkled-up with Swarovski crystals, while the Owl cuties have been overlaid with additional leather pieces and given good sled-spotting night vision with big round eyelets for eyes!

Handmade Kid Leather Christmas Tree and Owl Decorations (AUD $10ea) by Emerge Shoppe

You'll find Emma's creations in her online store, Emerge Shoppe and you can also follow her blog, aprons & hammers, at www.apronsandhammers.blogspot.com. Emma also makes leather accessories which would make great gifts - especially for people who are hard to buy for... like boys! Choose from keyrings, belts, brooches, pins & cuffs...

Set of 3 Double-Sided Recycled Silkscreen Ornaments in Blue (AUD $22ea) by etsa sketch

etsa sketch divides her time between art & study, and creates really lovely drawings & prints. The printmaking process can be hazardous and unpredictable at times, and she likes to "take any mistakes, imperfections or bad decisions and repurpose them into something beautiful".

These sweet wooden discs feature small glimpses of hand-pulled silkscreen prints. They are double-sided and would make great ornaments for Christmas or any other time of year! You'll find them in etsa sketch's MadeIt store, and you can follow her blog at estasketch.blogspot.com.

Pack of 5 Flora Tags, Letterpress and Lino Cut (AUD $9.50) by RubyVictoria

This post has been a real mix-up of materials - ceramics, leather, silkscreen prints and lastly... letterpress! I love these Christmas tags by Tasmanian printmaker & artist RubyVictoria - in fact I just purchased a dozen of the Naughty/Nice Coaster Tags pictured below! 'Nice' tags will be going to grandparents; siblings will definitely receive 'Naughty' tags, (despite all the help I received at Finders Keepers)... I wonder which of our parents & friends will make the 'Nice' cut?

Pack of 5 Letterpress Christmas Gift Tags (left, AUD $7) and Pack of 6 Letterpress Coaster Tags (right, AUD $12) by RubyVictoria

You'll find lots of loveliness in RubyVictoria's MadeIt store and you can follow her blog at www.rubyvictoria.blogspot.com.

If you're looking for even more Christmas decoration inspiration, we recently featured the Polli Decoration Kit of 30 (AUD $19.95) and edward & lilly's gorgeous lavender birdies (AUD $15).

Wishing a Merry Christmas to all our indie readers!
With love from Carolyn & Martin xx

Nikki Catalano and edward & lilly, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

We all had a fantastic time this weekend at The Finders Keepers Markets! Thanks to all the indies who came to visit - it was really lovely to meet you in person. We held the prize draw for the Indie Avalanche of Prizes at about 7.30pm on Saturday night. The winning tickets were drawn by Kevin Tran, whose "Finders Keepers" artwork featured on the cover of our "25 reasons to shop indie" booket, Finders Keepers cofounder Sarah and myself. We were so excited to find that two of our winners were in the crowd for the draw!

Bonnie Poplar and Saffron Craig, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

A big congratulations to Natalie (ticket B31), Karla (ticket B54) and Kirsty (ticket D79). Both Natalie and Kirsty had come to Sydney especially for the Markets, so the trip was definitely worth it! By the way, Kirsty's dad (who was excited as both Kirsty & me), runs the Star of the Sea apartments in Terrigal. If you're looking for luxury accommodation for a special holiday, look no further!

Duckcloth and Gaye Abandon, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

Our three indie gift hampers were incredible, and I want to extend a big thank you to all the labels who contributed their designs to the Indie Avalanche of Prizes. There was a fantastic mix of different products and we've featured images from each label either in this post or the last... If you'd like to order from these designers, you can contact each label directly using the links below. (You'll also find some items in the new indie store which will launch this week - eek!!)

Lark and geritom71, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

All the lovely labels...
a skulk of foxes, benconservato, Bonnie Poplar, Chimney House Shoes, Duckcloth, edward & lilly, feedthedog, Gaye Abandon, geritom71, Iggy & Lou Lou, Lark, Little Jane St, little white dish, Made by White, Mainichi, me and amber, Nikki Catalano, Non-Fiction, Saffron Craig, Sarah Rothe, Simone Walsh, South for the Summer, Trove, Umbrella Prints.

Little Jane St and Mainichi, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

An extra special thanks to D&O Printing, Artarmon, for printing the Indie Avalanche of Prizes booklet. With D&O's support, we were able to give each entrant something special to keep long after the markets are over. Each label's name and URL are included with the images, and we do have copies left over. If you weren't able to attend the Markets and would like a copy of the booklet for yourself (and friends), email your address to Carolyn at nineteen.toes@indie.com.au and I'd be more than happy to pop some in the post!

little white dish and Trove, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

D&O Printing have provided us with excellent quality printing for many years. The business is family-owned and not surprisingly, the service is exceptional. They printed our booklets at very short notice, and worked late into the night last Thursday - delivering the booklets to me personally to make sure everything was ready in time for the Markets!

me and amber & Chimney House Shoes, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

If you purchased a ticket in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, you probably met Kathryn of geritom71. Kathryn and my little sister Melissa were invaluable helpers on both Friday & Saturday and we had lots of fun manning the Non-Fiction / indie art & design stall...

Non-Fiction and Made by White, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

We look forward to future collaboration with Sarah & Brooke & The Finders Keepers!

Simone Walsh and Umbrella Prints, Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

Iggy & Lou Lou and benconservato, two of the Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

The next Sydney Finders Keepers Markets is fast approaching! On Friday & Saturday (4th & 5th December 2009), Carriageworks will once again come alive with a crazy array of art, design & craft products. You'll be able to do all your Christmas shopping at once!

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN INDIE... BIG TIME!

Announcing: indie art & design and The Finders Keepers have joined forces to give you the chance to win the BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER with the INDIE AVALANCHE OF PRIZES!

Cover art by Kevin Tran, featured on the gorgeous booklet of labels accompanying tickets in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

In fact, we have assembled 3 different indie gift hampers valued at over AUD $1200 each! The gifts have been provided by 24 of our favourite indie labels, and for $5, a ticket can be yours! $2 from each ticket purchased will be donated to Oxfam, and with every ticket, you'll also receive a very special booklet we've had printed, featuring artwork by Kevin Tran (who created the December Markets flyer) on the front cover, and images from each participating label inside!

Sarah Rothe and feedthedog, two of the Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

The incredible Indie Avalanche of Prizes will be on display at the event, where you'll be able to meet us in person! Artists & designers have given us some of their favourite pieces, including an original painting by benconservato, a 'PaperCuts Small Fan Pendant' by Sarah Rothe, a very special hand printed and embroidered cusion by feedthedog, gorgeous ceramic pendants by Iggy & Lou Lou, a sterling silver 'lovebirds' pendant by a skulk of foxes, exquisite feathered head bands by South for the Summer and many more gifts from Nikki Catalano, edward & lilly, Bonnie Poplar, little white dish, Trove, Simone Walsh, Umbrella Prints, Little Jane St, Non-Fiction, Mainichi, Made by White, Saffron Craig, Lark, geritom71, Duckcloth, Gaye Abandon, me and amber and Chimney House Shoes.

South for the Summer and a skulk of foxes, two of the Australian indie labels participating in the Indie Avalanche of Prizes, a joint project by indie art & design and The Finders Keepers.

Stay tuned as we'll be revealing more later in the week! To enter in the draw & grab your chance at winning the best Christmas-gift-to-self you could dream of, come and visit us at the Non-Fiction/indie art & design stall! We'd love to say hello, and hope to see you soon...

Our thanks to D&O Printing, Artarmon, for their generous sponsorship!

Breathe by Helen Kontouris, Victoria Side Table by Kain Lucas (of UTE) and Carbonwood by Gary Galego - finalists in the Bombay Sapphire Design Discovery Award 2009

Currently on display in the Gin Garden at Establishment are the works of 10 finalists in the 2009 Bombay Sapphire Design Discovery Award. The opening night was a buzz of design devotees, gin cocktails and inspiring design - much of which hung from the ceiling so that it could be admired above the crowd. With items such as the "Breathe" couch and the "Carbonwood" bicycle seeming to defy gravity, you could really appreciate the shapes and forms whilst removed from a 'functional' context. We were given a box of postcards, featuring each of the designs...

Peppered Sunlight by Rohan Nicol and other catalogue cards from the Bombay Sapphire Design Discovery Award 2009

The winner was announced on 18.11.2009 and our congratulations to Rohan Nicol, whose "Peppered Sunlight" (pictured above) took out the honours. The work is a large pendant light with a choice of three patterned light diffusers. The light emitted is similar to sunlight as filtered through trees.

Victoria Side Table by Kain Lucas (of UTE) and Twist by Adam Cornish - catalogue cards from the Bombay Sapphire Design Discovery Award 2009

We were thrilled to discover Kain Lucas had been selected as one of the finalists with his work "Victoria Side Table". Kain was inspired to design the piece whilst overlooking Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbour at night. Reminiscent of the movement of water, the Victoria Side Table is made from a single sheet of mild steel that is laser cut then stretched into its bell shape. Kain is the designer behind the rather brilliant products we featured earlier this year in our post titled "design that works". (Fans of UTE are in for a surprise next week on indie art & design - stay tuned!!)

Daily Grind by David Knott, Carbonwood by Gary Galego and Weddell by Marcel Sigel - catalogue cards from the Bombay Sapphire Design Discovery Award 2009

Some of my favourites are pictured above. "The Daily Grind" by David Knott has such a sensual shape & feel. The curved shape of the base has an organic feel - perhaps representing the essence of the coffee beans it contains.

"Carbonwood" by Gary Galego is made from a composite of carbon fibre and wood. It is both environmentally responsible and highly innovative; the fibre cloth strengthens the wood to make a high-performance material. It looks sleek & chic too!

"Weddell" by Marcel Sigel takes inspiration from a liquid. The design mimics wave like structures, and the vertical and lateral ribs sweep and surge up from the floor. The name is derived from a certain type of seal found in the Weddell Sea in Antarctica.

I also really love the unbroken lines of "Breathe" by Helen Kontouris (pictured at the top). The base and "legs" are an integral part of the design, and they flow seamlessly into the arms and seating supports. It is constructed entirely of recyclable polyethylene and aluminium, providing an all-weather solution that is environmentally friendly and able to withstand the harsh Australian sun.

The Bombay Sapphire Design Discovery Award exhibition for 2009 is showing at the Gin Garden at Establishment, 252 George St, Sydney, until November 30th. It will then travel to Melbourne and Brisbane venues in early 2010.

Decoration Kit (AUD $19.95) by Polli - 30 decorations with 6m of ribbon to make a garland, hanging decorations or gift tags. Each kit contains the Tree, Dove and Olive branch designs and are, printed in Australia on 100% recycled card.

Issue 4 of our favourite Peppermint Magazine has launched, and in it you will find our indie art & design interview with Polli! Read the full length interview below... PLUS GIVEAWAY: Simply leave a comment to enter the draw to WIN a pair of the incredibly beautiful POLLI WOVEN DRAGONFLY EARRINGS pictured below! (The winner will be drawn on Saturday 12th December 2009 so the earrings will make a lovely Christmas present for somebody lucky...)

Tess Lloyd & Maja Rose are the designers behind well-known Sydney label Polli. By fusing product and fashion design, and pairing industrial processes with handmade techniques, they have created a unique style which is both delicate and contemporary. Polli's jewellery and homewares are instantly recognisable, with intricate details and patterns cut from larger geometric shapes. We discover a little more about the world of Polli...

Woven Dragonfly earrings (AUD $99.95) and pendant (AUD $74.95) by Polli

I 1. Where do you find inspiration for your designs? What led you to the gorgeous new hand-stitched woven pieces?

P We find inspiration from our experiences, our local environment and travel to interesting places. For example, the woven range emerged from our desire to add colour and texture to our classic stainless steel pieces. The inspiration is from a family tapestry that has been in designer Maja Rose's family for 3 generations. We like to take inspiration from the things around us and work with them in interesting and new ways; translating experiences into jewellery.

Hoot Stainles Steel Brooch (AUD $69.95) by Polli

I 2. Did it take a lot of experimentation with materials & manufacturing processes before you settled on the Polli signature style paper-thin stainless steel & aluminium?

P From the beginning we have been interested in using materials and processes more commonly reserved for industrial uses. Aluminum and Stainless Steel seem to fit into this category. We originally started making accessories from a type of plastic – Polypropylene – which is where our name Polli is derived. Our designs were always a fusion of industrial techniques and bespoke finishing.

Printed Polypropylene Scales mobile (AUD $89.95) hanging above the Polli herb garden

I 3. Polli products are instantly recognisable - did you have a clear vision of your style & brand from the beginning?

P Our design style and business have evolved organically. We would never have thought when we started selling plastic baskets at local markets that our jewellery would later be exported worldwide. That being said we've always had vision for an accessible range of products – both in their design aesthetic and price point. We strive to make classic designs that out live fashion; pieces that the owner can treasure and wear for years. Sustainability speaking good design should never be disposed of and this is important for our ethos.

Woven Jasmin earrings (AUD $99.95) and pendant (AUD $74.95) - pink multi by Polli

I 4. How did Polli emerge from the ideas of two design students? In the beginning, how did you juggle design, manufacturing, admin, sales & marketing?

P We're very lucky to have a strong partnership with complementary skills. Our different backgrounds gave us exposure to a variety of roles and allowed us to build skills in areas like supplier liaison, graphic design, administration procedures, book keeping and product finishing. In running a small business you need to wear many 'hats' which can be challenging but also keep our daily roles interesting, allowing for a lot of variety.

Stainless Steel Tandem pendant (AUD $74.95) by Polli - photography by meligrosa from Bikes and the City, San Francisco - notice Duffy the dog perched at the back!

I 5. You've built Polli into the type of business many independent designers dream of... What decisions/approaches helped contribute to your success?

P That's very flattering! We were lucky to be able to reinvest in our business because we had full time employment – this helped us build capital without having to find external funding like bank loans. A strong partnership – commitment to each other and our business is important so we can support and encourage each other. Doing something you love is the best motivator – we like our products, our team and believe in our philosophy.

Jack mobile in Autumn by Polli (AUD $49.95 ) Each leaf features two curved cuts that allow it to hold a photo, card or postcard.

I 6. Are you sometimes tempted to make something completely different? If/when you have spare time, do you have side-projects on the go?

P We always dabble in new homewares – this is an interest of ours that we'd love to pursue further but our jewellery is still our core business and what we're known best for. Polli was originally a side project from our 'day jobs' but nowadays we don't get much time for any other projects!

Tea Light Shade Kimonos (AUD $49.95 each) by Polli

I 7. The tea light shades are so beautiful. Was the shadow play an integral part of the design from the start, or a lovely surprise?

P The tea lights are beautiful! They're like jewellery for your table! Our stainless steel hanging mobiles have always made beautiful shadows so the tea light shades were a natural progression – having a product with its own light source.

Gold Globe pendant (left, AUD $59.95) and Gold Sweep pendant (right, AUD $59.95) by Polli

I 8. You both share a passion for sustainable design, and in July, Polli was awarded 100% Low CO2 from the Carbon Reduction Institute. How did you achieve this, and what's next on the carbon neutral to-do list?

P The assessment by the Carbon Reduction Institute (CRI) was quite rigorous! They're a very thorough organisation – we even had to 'weigh' our trash! Our general philosophy is not to create excess waste where possible – for example by collecting production off cuts and reusing them to avoid them ending up as landfill. The CRI helped us to offset any additional emissions that we couldn't eliminate – for example electricity, car and plane travel.

The next step is to become No CO2 and to have products whose lifecycle has been fully assessed and offset. This process is far more in depth but its something we're working towards. We've started by only using 100% recycled packaging made locally and making products which utilise 'reclaimed' materials.

Stainless Steel Succulents earrings (AUD $59.95) and pendant (AUD $49.95) by Polli

I 9. As Polli has grown, you've had the chance to travel extensively. Which destinations have stood out, and who has surprised & inspired you?

P We love NY – we've been lucky enough to travel there twice a year and it's always a buzz! Europe has been very inspiring – there is a ceramic studio in the Marais in Paris which we'll never forget and a lot of our designs are inspired by personal travel in India. But most of all we love Australia, our studio in Stanmore, our walks around the inner west – it's a beautiful country.

Stainless Steel Terrace pendant (AUD $49.95) by Polli

I 10. Now that Polli has an international following, will you continue to manufacture the range exclusively in Australia?

P It's important to us to manufacture in Australia as it helps local industry and reduces the products carbon footprint by eliminating extensive freight and allowing us to control what happens to any production off cuts. For these reasons we hope to always manufacture locally but export globally.

Elm Stainless Steel cufflinks (AUD $89.95) by Polli

I 11. Do you collaborate on each design or do you work independently around a common theme? With so many exquisite designs, do you each have personal favourites?

P We work together sketching and discussing general themes. Once we've got some rough ideas we sort of swap designs to get a different perspective. Because of this every design has a bit of both of us in it which is great! Our favorites change all the time – but Baskets is one of our very first designs and is still a strong favorite. The new woven are beautiful, it's so refreshing for us to have endless colour combinations to play with.

Polli display at cameron Marks Boutique - Santa Cruz

I 12. Where is Polli headed next?

P That's a big question – hopefully some collaborations with other designers, to be No CO2 and export to new markets – we'd love to see Polli sold in Japan!

White Wreath (AUD $69.96) and Fractal Eco Clock (AUD $89.95) by Polli

Thank you so much to Tess and Maja - for both the interview and the GIVEAWAY! The Woven Dragonfly designs are my favourites at the moment... wishing I could enter myself! Make sure to enter the draw by commenting on this post before 12.12.2009 - perhaps you can tell us which Polli piece is your favourite?

You can browse all the beautiful shiny Polli things at www.polli.com.au and follow the Polli blog to keep up with their news & travels.

We are so excited to bring you this gorgeous collection of festive gift ideas for Christmas 2009! This year's Gift Guide is bursting with indie goodness - designs that we absolutely love. Every product featured here can be purchased online with ease, and there's something here for everyone...
Happy shopping this holiday season!

AU $13.75 Vintage Button Hair Elastics (each pair is a one off or part of a very limited edition) from Sheeps Clothing

AU $13.75 Vintage Button Hair Clips (each pair is a one off or part of a very limited edition) from Sheeps Clothing

AU $50 Little Rabbits Birthday mounted illustration print by Nikki Catalano from Collection of Cool

AU $50 Under The Tree (detail) mounted illustration print by Nikki Catalano from Collection of Cool

AU $70
Arch earrings by in-sync design from Oye Modern

AU $90
Silver hoop zip-it necklace by Cynics from Oye Modern

AU $25 Sweetie Petite Doll Kit from Duckcloth

AU $28 Kristen Doran Hand Printed Craft Panel from Duckcloth

AU $45 Light weight Summer Trilby with embroidered silk Bird on Branch from Elk Accessoies

AU $30 Green Tree Pendant on cotton chord, adjustable with sliding bead from Elk Accessories

US $5 Mini Pocket Pad Set of 4 in Blues from Geritom71

AU $30 Turquoise Bouquet Earrings from Cocoa Pod

AU $12
Embroidered Brooches from edward & lilly

AU $15
Lavender Scented Christmas Decorations from edward & lilly

AU $55 Yoki eco-friendly tee from Heidi & Seek.

AU $42 Snoop reconstructed tee from Heidi & Seek.

US $69 Shinzo Felt and Leather Necklace from Mainichi

US $54 Kawa Recycled Leather Necklace from Mainichi

AU $32
Doily/Oak Brooch available in natural or walnut from shonah

AU $39
Leaf Resin, Fabric and Wood earrings in pale mint from shonah

AU $24 Set of 6 Family Portrait greeting cards from Non-Fiction

AU $29ea Lisa Max Owl and Cat cushions from Ruck Rover

US $18
Girl in Blue print from Belafonte

US $18 Girl in a Window print
from Belafonte

AU $145 Sterling Silver "B Ring"
An elegant piece that elongates the hand from Bilingual

AU $165ea "Cirque Collection" Sterling silver pieces worn as rings or pendants from Bilingual

AU $78
Loved vertical porcelain pendant from Little White Dish

AU $96
Dark Horse horizontal porcelain pendant from Little White Dish

AU $25 Sarah McNeil 'Girls Who Wear Glasses...' print from Moose: Art for Living

AU $60 (per set) Bowling Arm Cricket bracelets from Moose: Art for Living

AU $92 Kinetic Ruby Rings: one setting ($92) or two settings ($128) from Simone Walsh

AU $68 Mock Orange Blossom Brooch hand cut from sterling silver from Simone Walsh

AU $35-$80 Bob Boutique's famous retro "Pass the Parcels", pretty layers ending with a surprise

AU $15 Alice and White Rabbit Calico Bag made in Bendigo from Bob Boutique

Thank you to all the gorgeous labels and boutiques who accepted our invitation to support the indie art & design Christmas Gift Guide 2009.

Masked Bandits by Iggy & Lou Lou (AUD $190ea)

We're excited to bring you the second instalment of our "Three of a Kind" interview series - this time with Irene Grishin-Selzer the artist & designer behind the gorgeous Iggy & Lou Lou jewellery label.

To be honest, I'm a little in awe of Irene and her Iggy & Lou Lou creations. Her style is so unique, and each time I browse through her web site (which is truly an artwork in itself), I find myself adding up what it would cost me to buy... everything! (Well, a good selection anyway!) Her latest collection, "Love Bandits" explores the concept, "Stolen time stands still, and love lasts forever...", with pieces that possess a mysterious quality whilst at the same time connecting with the viewer (or wearer) on a very personal level.

Iggy & Lou Lou was launched in 2003 and since then has released seven successful jewellery & artwork collections. Irene draws on the rich history of porcelain and each piece is lovingly hand crafted and kiln fired up to four times to attain the patina of buried treasure. Collections are rich with historical references, decorative themes and narratives, and influences - from ocean depths to forest folk, sixteenth century Memento Mori and the black and white character of Film Noir - imbue each piece with the presence of a much-loved heirloom.

'Just Like Honey' by Irene Grishin-Selzer (AUD $2600 - SOLD)

I What makes you 'three of a kind'? The motivations behind your works, your techniques & approach or the themes that run through the artworks, or a little of each?

ILL There is an element of humour, mystery and fun that runs through all of our interests, approaches and themes. I think its evident in all the different mediums we tackle.

Dinosaur with rainbow medallion by Iggy & Lou Lou (AUD $185)

I What led you down this career path?

ILL I always liked making things and selling them from when I was little. I studied up to Masters in ceramics and applied arts (with jewellery as a minor subject) I wanted to find a job that gave me a sense of creative freedom but I couldn't find anything that I liked. A business grew out the demand for the jewellery I was making and with the help of those who work with me, I'm able to devote time to making artworks as well. It doesn't really feel like a 'career' choice as it just grew out of a need to retain my creative freedom.

Horse Bandit Sculpture - Black Tear by Iggy & Lou Lou (AUD $820, jewellery and skull not included)

I What do you love most about being an artist/designer?

ILL I love being able to take ideas and feelings and make them into concrete objects... Making things by hand is really rewarding for me. Sometimes it takes longer than expected but there is a real sense of satisfaction from seeing it through from start to finish. I also enjoy the practical aspects of sending things all around the world via the website - its nice to feel a connection with people from far away places. I also love being able to travel overseas and meet and work with other artists who make beautiful things like Madeleine and Beci.

'Cant Tell The Birds From The Blossoms' by Irene Grishin-Selzer (AUD $1800)

I Does living in Melbourne influence your artwork?

ILL I'm not sure. Maybe it does unconciously... but I don't know in what particular way. I don't live in the city as I love the sea, but I always think I'd make the same kind of work whevever I lived - but who knows?

I What is the focus of your work for the Three Of A Kind exhibition?

ILL I often work in 3D but am showing some limited edition photographs and prints for the first time. I've also made some new wall sculptures which are in between 2-3D. I generally work with themes of love and mystery. I like working with dueling themes that often work out as opposites of the same coin, eg.the dualities of love/beauty vs loss. Dreams and reality often collide and an element of humour or playfulness is always there to keep things in check!

Double Bluebird Necklace by Iggy & Lou Lou (AUD $110)

I What do you love most about the work of the other two girls?

ILL I love lots of different things about both Madeleine and Beci's work. Probably mostly the playful but considered dreaminess…that gets me every time!

Thanks so much, Irene for finding time amongst the exhibition preparations to tell us about the journey and inspirations behind Iggy and Lou Lou. Wishing you all the best for the upcoming show! Do make sure to visit www.iggyandloulou.com to see many more beautiful porcelain creations from Iggy & Lou Lou's six collections.

There's not long to go until the doors at Lab X Gallery open to reveal new works by this trio of artists: Iggy & Lou Lou, Madeleine Stamer and Beci Orpin. Opening night is Friday 20th November 2009, from 6-8pm. In the meantime, you can follow the show preparations at http://threeofakind09.blogspot.com.

The exhibition continues until November 29.
Lab X
40 Pakington St, St Kilda, 3182.
ph. 03 9534 8838
Gallery hours are 8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday.

Two exciting new shows have just opened - Catherine Campbell's solo show Tall Stories and Papercuts at Extended Play Gallery in Northcote, Melbourne, and Hip Pop, a group show presented by United Galleries at Saatchi & Saatchi in The Rocks, Sydney... Exhibiting artists at Hip Pop include David Disher, Stephen Dupont, Jane Fontane, Lee Grant, William Hold, Ben Ali Ong, Patricia Mado, Ben Rak and Kareena Zerefos.

Dressing for a Crescent Moon 4 - Print of an original ink, watercolour and collage drawing by Catherine Campbell (US $15)

For the Tall Stories and Papercuts exhibition, Catherine (whose studio is known as My Folk Lover) created a series of four long scroll type pieces based on some of her favourite female characters. She was drawn to the 'split nature' of each of these women, and found these intense opposing forces "quite inspiring for the basis of a few drawings"! The exhibition invitation (top) shows a detail of one of these works, and the entire piece is amazing! (You can see it on Catherine's Flickr site.)

These are on display, along with a selection of smaller works, at Extended Play Gallery which opened its doors in Northcote just last month. The gallery is in front of the studio space where Catherine now works alongside fellow artist Andy Lewis. If you're in Melbourne, make sure to get along! I adore Catherine's work - a mixture of delicate illustration, femininity and thoughtful, balanced composition... You can also visit her web site at www.catherinecampbell.net, follow her blog at www.myfolklover.typepad.com or shop for My Folk Lover prints at www.myfolklover.etsy.com.

Tall Stories and Papercuts
11 - 28 November 2009
Extended Play Gallery
547 High Street, Northcote, Melbourne
Gallery open: Wed - Sat, 11am - 5pm.

Fox and Feathers - original artwork by Kareena Zerefos

We have featured Kareena Zerefos' work a number of times on indie art & design (May 08, Nov 08, Nov 08 & Feb 08!), and we had to share these new works with you! They were created with pencil & oils on wood, and they're incredible.

Kareena describes this series as "exploring childhood fears of an isolated, dystopian 'Australia'. The imagery is based on my memories growing up in the rural outskirts of sydney, surrounded by bush dwelling animals... foxes that would stare hauntingly through the trees (and would get into our chicken pen), possums sometimes comforting but at other times terrifying and reptiles that creep around like alien creatures of another time."

The girl and the possum - original artwork by Kareena Zerefos

I'm looking forward to seeing these soon... There are a few more images on Kareena's blog at www.kareenazerefos.com. So beautiful!

12 - 27 November 2009
United Galleries presents Hip Pop
at Saatchi & Saatchi
70 George St, The Rocks, Sydney
Gallery open: Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm.

Limited edition giclee print by Madeleine Stamer

Three incredibly talented Melbourne girls have joined forces to bring us the upcoming "Three of a Kind" exhibition. We are thrilled to be supporting this show, and will be bringing you artist interviews as well as pics from the opening night, which will be at
Lab X Gallery on Friday 20th November 2009, from 6-8pm.

Madeleine Stamer (of Little Circus Design), Irene Grishin-Selzer (of Iggy & Lou Lou) and Beci Orpin (of Beci Orpin & Tiny Mammoth) are the 'artists three' and they've launched a pop-up blog at http://threeofakind09.blogspot.com to cover the exhibition!

We've asked each artist a series of questions about the show, and first up is Madeleine! Her artworks are just beautiful, with fluid graphic and illustrative elements. I think people feel a strong connection to her work as it seems very personal. Each image tells a story, with inspiration drawn from the characters & creatures from her childhood, natural history, Mexicana, folk art, vintage prints & patterns.

Madeleine has taken a little time off from exhibition preparations to tell us about the show, and working with Irene & Beci...

MS I will proudly boast that I am Irene's biggest and most loyal fan and I've been smitten with Beci's work ever since I laid eyes on her iconic Sad Tooth image. As it happens, we are all quite fond of each other’s art and we have a stack in common both personally and professionally. Beci and I are both proud mothers of two children and Irene is expecting her first bubba early next year! It was only a matter of time before the three of us made contact and decided to exhibit together. Beci and I belong to the same illustration agency (The Jacky Winter Group) and Irene and I had an already established friendship. Irene and I have been pals for nearly 10 years. We met while we were both doing our Masters at Monash University. We shared an idyllic studio space with an amazing view of the city. Irene and I happily chatted away the days as we worked on our ceramics. Our friendship grew and grew and our respective partners also became buddies. Our hubbys share similar interests such as their love of old Mini cars and other boy stuff. Irene and I have been planning to exhibit together for many years. 2009 was the year to get our bums into action. We decided to invite Beci on a whim. Luckily for us she willingly accepted and the two of us became 'three of a kind' over night!

Limited edition giclee print by Madeleine Stamer

I What makes you 'three of a kind'? The motivations behind your works, your techniques & approach or the themes that run through the artworks, or a little of each?

MS Our three of a kind theme is multi-faceted. Broadly speaking it covers our fond admiration for each other's personal style and shared interests. The three of us have a similar work aesthetic and we are motivated by similar medium choices and inspiration. Our work often possesses folk traditions and like-minded ideas injected with a humorous yet dark edge. Building up to the show we have maintained tight communication with one another via email and we have been privy to digital images of each other's work that we are including in the show. Obviously we haven't seen absolutely every piece of work but we trust each other completely. I personally can't wait to see how it will all come together.

"Bird on a Cross" Limited edition giclee print by Madeleine Stamer (AU $150 A3 size or $330 56x76cm)

I What led you down this career path?

MS I chose to pursue illustration because I simply adore the drawing process. I have two small children and limited studio space plus I sold my kiln so illustrating became a very appealing career choice. I’m also a part time art teacher so luckily I have access to a kiln. I still love working with clay and I regularly get the students involved with clay-based projects.

The Blackeyed Susans "Reveal Yourself" Album cover by Madeleine Stamer

I What do you love most about being an artist/designer?

MS Luckily for me I have the regularity of a good part time teaching job but I also love the thrill of being involved in freelance opportunities and agency work. You never know what is around the corner and there are so many wonderful opportunities to become involved in. Obviously my illustration work is sporadic but somehow it all comes together. I push myself to be ultra organized and communicative otherwise opportunities fall by the wayside. I also have a very loving and supportive husband who encourages me to keep moving! When I’m not teaching and if I don’t have any deadlines I squeeze in my personal art such as the work that I have compiled specifically for the three of a kind show. Being able to combine so much of what I love makes me a happy person, but it takes hard work and determination particularly when you have kids.

Illustration by Madeleine Stamer

I Does living in Melbourne influence your artwork?

MS Unknowingly I think it has an intrinsic connection to my work. My environment and experiences influence my work a great deal. My art often references fond childhood experiences and interesting encounters. I lived near Dampier Creek in Mount Waverley. In the 70's, Mount Waverley was semi-rural! Milk was delivered by horse and cart (now I'm really showing my age!) Most geographical areas have a personality, Melbourne certainly has great characteristics and I love it very much!

I What is the focus of your work for the Three Of A Kind exhibition?

MS 2D work, large-scale giclee prints and I have designed some limited edition birdie mobiles made of laser-cut acrylic. The themes vary, but as usual most images include a bird and a little touch of Australiana.

Limited edition giclee print by Madeleine Stamer

I What do you love most about the work of the other two girls?

MS Their originality and the personality that shines through their work.

Thanks so much, Madeleine for sharing a piece of the Little Circus world with us, and best wishes to all three artists for the show! It will be a special one...

You can see more of Madeleine's work at Little Circus Design, or revisit our previous posts about her work: 20.12.2007 "feature artist: madeleine stamer" and 15.4.2007 "run away with little circus". If you're in Melbourne, make sure to visit the Three Of A Kind blog and of course, the show!

The exhibition opens at Lab X on Friday 20th November 2009, from 6-8pm, and continues until November 29.

Lab X
40 Pakington St, St Kilda, 3182.
ph. 03 9534 8838
Gallery hours are 8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday.