studio visit: jade oakley

Studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

Last week, we were invited to the studio space of Sydney artist Jade Oakley. We chatted about her work and took loads of photos as she prepared for her upcoming exhibition "Estuary" which will open on the 18th of June at Australian Galleries Glenmore Road in Paddington (Sydney).

Jade's recent work has been centred around delicately balanced mobiles. For this exhibition, she drew inspiration from estuaries. "An estuary is a special place. It is where the river breathes out into the sea. This is where life begins, muddy and mysterious. It is a place of crabs, mangroves, tides and tannins; where salt and fresh waters meet. I have used colours that speak of the murky depths of water and mud and mangrove. These mobiles have sprung from my thoughts about estuaries, of dark water filled with primeval life." Jade Oakley

Blue Green painted paper - studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

Studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

The mobiles are made using materials such as fine wire and translucent papers. Jade applies gouache to the paper, creating subtle graduations of colour & tone. She plans the overall shape and colour shift of the finished mobile, then cuts the shape of each "leaf" before attaching it to a wire "stem". The leaves are gently fixed to the mobile with a (well-practised) turn of the pliers. Jade makes it look so easy! Once completed, the colour effects are stunning - a mobile may appear to have been dipped in ink, or reveal a wash of colour like brackish water over white sands...

Gold painted paper & wire leaves - studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

The leaves pictured above were quietly awaiting their assembly into a large mobile Jade was creating the day of our visit. They looked amazing with the light shining through them. One by one, they disappeared from the queue and took their place in the lengthening work. Once part of the mobile, the leaves move so effortlessly - it can be mesmerising! You could never tire of a work like this as it would look different at every glance. I also took some longer exposures to try & capture the movement.

Two mobiles - studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

Mobile in movement - Studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

I originally know Jade from high school, and when I headed off to SCA (Sydney College of the Arts), she began her studies in fine arts at COFA (College of Fine Arts). Since graduating with Honours in Sculpture, Jade has exhibited her work both locally and internationally. Recent solo shows (both in 2007) include "Circumnavigation" at Bondi Pavilion, and "Tipping Point" at Mori Gallery (which we posted about in December 2007).

She has also completed some amazing commissioned work, been involved in many community art projects, and been Artist in Residence at Bundanon Artist's Centre, Noosa Regional Gallery, Vermont Studio Centre in Vermont, USA and Bondi Public School.

Studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

Studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

We're really looking forward to seeing more of Jade's new works in Estuary. The exhibition opens on Thursday, 18th June 2009, 6pm-9pm, and continues until Saturday 11th July at:

Australian Galleries
Glenmore Rd
24 Glenmore Rd, Paddington, NSW, 2021.
Opening Hours:
10am - 6pm Monday to Saturday
12pm - 5pm Sunday
Phone: 02 9380 8744

Detail of mobiles - studio visit with Sydney-based artist Jade Oakley

Jade will have many mobiles on display, and if you're in Sydney, make sure you don't miss it! As beautiful as the photos are, you really need to see her works in real life to appreciate the delicate balance & beauty as the leaves turn their circles and the whole mobile shifts shape. You can (very soon) see more of Jade's work at www.jadeoakley.com.au.

posted: 03 Jun 2009 | 2 comments | leave a comment
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squirrels with secrets & pretty dresses

Poketo Skirt and Tux Dress in Black by Secret Squirrel Clothing

Poketo Skirt (left, AUD $95) and Tux Dress in Black (right, AUD $195) from Secret Squirrel Clothing

Hi there Indie kids, so lovely to meet you all. As I pondered over what I should share with you in my debut post, the thought occurred to me that it might be nice to share a bit of myself with you all. A getting-to-know you sort of deal. So here we go: I adore dresses, especially the wintry kind that, when teamed with some thick black tights, patent black heels and a cute beret, equal perfection. So when I stumbled across Sydney label Secret Squirrel's winter '09 collection, I couldn't resist sharing it with you all.

From humble beginnings under a canvas umbrella in Sydney's Glebe Markets, Secret Squirrel's playful yet elegant creations can now be found in a handful of retail and online boutiques in Australia and New Zealand. It is the beautiful love-child of designers Bri Cheeseman and Andrew Prince, who produce two seasonal collections a year.

Velvet Smoking Jacket and Christina Dress - lace, from Secret Squirrel Clothing

Velvet Smoking Jacket (left, AUD $189) and Christina Dress - Lace (right, AUD $209) from Secret Squirrel Clothing

Their latest collection, Darker Than Blue (AW09) sees their classic cuts teamed with antique lace, opulent silk and just a hint of velvet. The winter collection also sees the duo team up with another cult Sydney design duo, We Buy Your Kids, to create some super cute and quirky t-shirts.

When asked about their creations, Bri says that Secret Squirrel aims to make clothes that will stand the test of time; collections that are simple and elegant without necessarily looking like it. "We are young and modern, and a little innocent, but there is a splash of gorgeous and grown up about us, too."

Christina Dress Silk and Smock Dress from Secret Squirrel Clothing

Christina Silk Dress (left, AUD $198) and Smock Dress (right, AUD $209) from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

My personal favourites from the collection are the Christina dress in red silk (above left) and the navy silk smock dress (above right). To see more of Secret Squirrel's luscious collection, or to purchase one of these beauties for yourself, visit www.secretsquirrelclothing.com.au.

Smock Dress and Button Skirt from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

Smock Dress (left, AUD $209) and Button Skirt (right, AUD $115) from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

Even better news: right now in The Grand Social's online store, Secret Squirrel items from the sweet summer collection Kaleidescope are on sale. Pretty and cheap! What more could you ask for. :)

Kimono Dress and Tux Top by Secret Squirrel Clothing.

Kimono Dress (left, AUD $220) and Tux Top (right, AUD $145) from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

You'll find Secret Squirrel's Darker Than Blue collection hiding at the following Australian stockists:

NSW: Pigeon Ground Records and Clothing (Camperdown), Somedays (Surry Hills), Abicus, Made 590 (Newtown), Glamourpuss (Erskinville), Lee & Me (Wollongong)
VIC: Some Buddy Loves You (Fitzroy), Little Salon (Fitzroy), Dorothy & Evelyn (St Kilda), Pussycat Black (Brunswick), Lu Lu Design Store (Balaclava), Hummingbird 60 (Northcote), Wolf Whistle
WA: Subway DC (Perth, Freemantle, Claremont), Atlas Devine (Leederville)
ONLINE: www.birdmotel.com.au, www.thegrandsocial.com.au/secret-squirrel

Posted by Jacquie

posted: 30 May 2009 | 1 comment | leave a comment
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introductions!

The Indie Wire - News from indie art & design

Welcoming two new contributors into the world of indie art & design!

A big HELLO to Jacquie and Melissa. Jacquie lives in Adelaide and is studying French at uni, and Melissa is a graphic designer who has recently returned to Sydney after a few years living overseas. (She is also Carolyn's little sister.)

Thanks to you both for joining our little team & we look forward to discovering all the design + art + fashion you love best!

posted: 30 May 2009 | 0 comments | leave a comment
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stories to tell

Druantia and Ava by Nadia Turner (Wayward Harper)

"Druantia and Ava" by Nadia Turner (Wayward Harper)

Illustrators are, by their very nature, storytellers, and a trio of Melbourne-based artists (whose paintings I love) currently have their work on show at the GASWORKS Arts Park.

Creature detail by Nadia Turner (Wayward Harper)

"Creature" detail by Nadia Turner (Wayward Harper)

Titled "Stories To Tell", the exhibition showcases the work of Nadia Turner, Rhiannon Mowat and Alisha Ball. Each artist has their own unique painting style, but all of their images offer a window to an imaginary world. The works draw inspiration from many sources: from classic fairytales and folklore; to Shakespeare; to the darker myths and legends that form part of our cultural consciousness.

Mixed works by Nadia Turner (Wayward Harper)

Mixed works by Nadia Turner (Wayward Harper)

Nadia Turner's work is incredible. Intricate detail, and the very way she paints each stroke contributes to each character possessing a real presence. They step into our space and silently suggest that they were here first.

Combining fine detail with decorative elements, Nadia's paintings evoke a sense of otherworldliness.

Nadia draws inspiration from many sources, including the art of the Surrealists, the Pre-Raphaelites, traditional folk art, various children's books, and music - more specifically the music of the Celtic Harp and all the mythology and folklore associated with it. For "Stories To Tell", you can expect lots of beautiful fairytale and myth inspired work! Nadia says she's discovered "a definite gypsy theme" running throughout her work.

Tea and Sympathy by Rhiannon Mowat

"Tea and Sympathy" by Rhiannon Mowat

The three artists met when they studied illustration together at Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE, graduating in 2005. They had a lot of fun and have remained friends since. Rhiannon and Nadia have exhibited together before, but this is the first time all three girls have shown their work together.

The paintings revolve around what they love best, which of course is illustrating. In particular they tend to be drawn towards themes of fairytales or myth and folklore.

For this exhibition, Rhiannon draws her inspiration from the plays of Shakespeare, using his words and themes throughout her work.

What White Rabbit? by Rhiannon Mowat

"What White Rabbit?" by Rhiannon Mowat

Rhiannon Mowat's paintings are full of drama & whimsy. Her characters are wide-eyed & quirky, drawn from dark worlds and spooky tales.

I especially love Rhiannon's works pictured above, "Tea and Sympathy" and "What White Rabbit?". The clever composition (in the latter) teases us with the mystery of what lies further down the rabbit hole.

Painting by Alisha Ball

Painting by Alisha Ball

Alisha Ball has been traveling for the past few years and a lot of her work is directly influenced by her travels and the cultures of the countries she passed through.

I love the colours in Alisha's painting (above). The rich, pinks & golds in the woman's scarf and skintones against the cool pastel tones in the background. The palette itself gives this beautiful image a spiritual feel.

Stories To Tell flyer

Stories To Tell officially opens this Thursday night at the Angela Robarts-Bird Gallery in the GASWORKS Arts Park, but you can visit the exhibition any time from yesterday! The show continues until 14th June 2009.

Date: 25 May to 14 June 2009
Venue: Angela Robarts-Bird Gallery
Time: Opening Thursday 28 May, 6pm to 8pm
Gallery Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm, daily
Enquiries: 03 8606 4200

posted: 24 May 2009 | 0 comments | leave a comment
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design now! 2009

Untitled from The Decay of Life Series by Amanda McKenzie from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Amanda McKenzie, Untitled, detail from The Decay Of Life series, 2008.

The incredible work pictured above is The Decay of Life - glass castings of fruit in various stages of the decaying process. Designer Amanda McKenzie describes her inspiration as "traditional Baroque still life oil paintings (especially Caravaggio) and the different interpretations of its symbology. Symbology and meaning in the still life has changed over the centuries and have been phased out in contemporary art. The introduction of a new model of the still life in a modern and relevant style which can be interpreted in a society of materialistic values."

The work is currently on show at Object as part of Design Now! 2009, Australia's only touring exhibition of student design. Now in its ninth year, Design Now! is a launching pad for young designers, and the exhibition showcases innovative work from 18 graduates of 2008. These finalists were chosen from over 200 nominations by Heads of Departments and lecturers from university art & design schools across Australia.

Gaawaa Miyay collection by Lucy Simpson from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Lucy Simpson, Gaawaa Miyay collection, 2008. Photo courtesy the artist.

This year, Design Now! was divided into 6 categories: Design for the Built Environment; Design for the Body; Design for Communication; Design for Studio Production; Design for the Home; and Design for Industry.

We've chosen some of our favourite pieces to share with you, such as Lucy Simpson's Gaawaa Miyay, pictured above. The work is a collection of textiles featuring four prints: Gaawaa, Dhinawan, Walgett and Barigan. Each pattern holds a memory and tells the stories of family and country on cloth. The stories are told in a contemporary context, through the use of Yuwaalaraay language (an Aboriginal nation in Northwest NSW - her country) The incorporation of Indigenous language into the project is a reflection of the language revival currently happening across the country. The designer aims to contribute to this revival, bringing Yuwaalaraay and the stories of her family and country to new lips and ears.

The Object Award for Creative Innovation was jointly awarded to RMIT graduate Anthony Hamilton Smith and UTS graduate Michael Anderson whose winning works are pictured below.

Slow Kitchen by Anthony Hamilton Smith from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Anthony Hamilton Smith, Slow Kitchen, 2008. Image courtesy the artist.

Anthony Hamilton Smith has used locally & sustainably produced ply wood, traditional wood crafting methods, and the principles of Slow design to create his Slow Kitchen, a vehicle (in both a metaphorical and physical sense) to advocate the ideas and philosophy of the Slow Movement. This modular, bicycle-led trailer "transforms into a working kitchen interior, within or adjacent to the primary production site of a chosen slow food ingredient(s)". (Anthony Hamilton Smith)

The Arborist's Blocking Crane by Michael Anderson from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Michael Anderson, The Arborist's Blocking Crane, 2008. Image courtesy the artist.

The Arborist's Blocking Crane by Michael Anderson is a fantastic example of design being a mechanism to create clever, pragmatic solutions to specific problems - in this case, the precarious and dangerous process of lowering sections of tree trunks being removed by an arborist.

Untitled 14 (set of 4) by Kali Norman from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Kali Norman, Untitled 14 (set of 4), 2008. Work courtesy of Curtin University of Technology Art Collection. Photo: Christiane Keller.

I adore these hand-cut metal tree sculptures by Kali Norman. Each of the four pieces have been blackened with patina, so that the viewer's focus is on the shapes & shadows rather than the metal surface. The branches and leaves are bent and curved to reflect the organic nature of the subject and retain a sense of movement.

"My body of work is a study of shadow play and light through the seasons. The idea of light and shadow appeals to me, as it so influential on our mood and state of mind, in particular the effects of dappled light." (Kali Norman)

Three Greedy Pigs by Kim Wong from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Kim Wong, Three Greedy Pigs from the Bedtime Stories collection, 2008. Photo: Kim Wong

Isn't Three Greedy Pigs cute?! The ring is from the Bedtime Stories collection comprising of jewellery made from semi-precious stone and "something fun" - plastic animals from a toy store of course!

Breeze Way by Krista Lindegger and Scenarios of a Sustainable Future by Eric Ng from the Design Now! 2009 exhibition at Object

Krista Lindegger, Breeze Way, 2008, image courtesy the artist, and Eric Ng, Scenarios of a Sustainable Future, 2008, image courtesy the artist.

The two designs above each take a very different approach to sustainable design. On the left is Breeze Way by Krista Lindegger - a revolutionary way of drying clothes naturally. On the right is Scenarios of a Sustainable Future - a series of 7 booklets that communicate everyday scenarios in a fictional but feasible near future. The project illustrates the potential well-being and unconsidered benefits of a future which is disassociated with materialism.

Design Now! 2009 will be showing at Object until 12th June 2009, then at the Melbourne Museum from 14th August - 22nd November 2009.

By the way, the new "Wood" issue of Object magazine came out last week!

Issue 58 of Object Magazine - Wood

posted: 22 May 2009 | 2 comments | leave a comment
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finders keepers

The Finders Keepers market flyer, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

Flyer for The Finders Keepers designer markets at the CarriageWorks in Sydney this weekend. This time, the gorgeous artwork is by Catherine Campbell!

OPENING TONIGHT: The bi-annual The Finders Keepers markets (formerly Hope Street Markets) have become an unmissable event on the Sydney calendar, and the much anticipated winter markets will welcome us all this weekend! With market stalls in high demand, the Finders Keepers showcases the very best in indie design from around Australia.

Shagpile - exhibiting at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

Shagpile - funky accessories handmade from vintage, reclaimed & unusual fabrics

Opening tonight at 6pm, The Finders Keepers will come alive with over 100 design stalls, including many new faces selling products you're yet to discover! Click here to check out profiles on each & every designer.

Ruby and Scarlett - exhibiting at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

Ruby & Scarlett - letter press studio, Balmain, Sydney.

I'm especially looking forward to browsing the wares of Ruby & Scarlett, a small letter press studio from Balmain and Shagpile who handmakes interesting & funky accessories from vintage, reclaimed & unusual fabrics. Curious am I!

Kevin Tran - artworks at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

Kevin Tran - artworks at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

Artworks by Kevin Tran - featured artist at The Finders Keepers.

One highlight of the The Finders Keepers Markets is the Artists' Wall - a showcase of works by local artists, illustrators & graphic designers. Featured this winter will be:

Beastman - artworks at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

Beastman - artworks at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

"Burden Best in Show" (top) and "Burden Python" by Beastman - featured artist at The Finders Keepers.

If the overload of art & design isn't already enough, The Finders Keepers will also be showcasing a line-up of local independent musicians & djs. You will be entertained throughout the event by live performances from Caitlin Park, Telafonica, Clairaudience, Nina Stamell and many more. Visit The Finders Keepers for the full music line up.

0049 Design, exhibiting at The Finders Keepers Markets, Winter 2009, the CarriageWorks, Sydney.

New felt goodness by The Finders Keepers fave 0049 Design. Rex Keyholder and Bird Laptop Case.

The Finders Keepers opens this evening at CarriageWorks in Sydney, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh. Hours are as follows:
Friday 15th May: 6pm - 10pm
Saturday 16th May: 12pm - 10pm
See you there!

posted: 14 May 2009 | 1 comment | leave a comment
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foxy one-day sale

Hohloma Bird Chain in Ivory by Melbourne designer Natalie Cirillo of A Skulk of Foxes

Hohloma Bird Chain in Ivory, AUD $38.50 (was $55), by A Skulk Of Foxes

You'll need to move as quickly as a fox... or a rabbit... or a hummingbird to catch this one! Indie fave A Skulk Of Foxes is having a ONE DAY SALE where you'll save 30% on the entire range! (Friday 8th May 2009.)

Wolf Red Acrylic Brooch and Hummingbird Mirror Acrylic Brooch by Melbourne designer Natalie Cirillo of A Skulk of Foxes

Wolf red acrylic brooch and Hummingbird mirror acrylic brooch, each AUD $12.60 (were $18), by A Skulk Of Foxes

You know we love Melbourne label A Skulk Of Foxes! Launched by jewellery designer Natalie Cirillo in 2006, the label has gained a loyal following, and the silver & resin critters now inhabit shops & galleries across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. (You can also read more in our previous indie art & design posts Forest Dwellers, July 2007 and Skulking Around Melbourne, August 2008.)

Silver Squirrel studs by Melbourne designer Natalie Cirillo of A Skulk of Foxes

Squirrel Studs in Sterling Silver, AUD $62.30 (were $89), by A Skulk Of Foxes

For TODAY ONLY, ALL A Skulk Of Foxes products listed in the online store have been reduced by 30%.

Pagoda acrylic brooch by Melbourne designer Natalie Cirillo of A Skulk of Foxes

Pagoda Acrylic Brooches, each AUD $31.50 (were $45), by A Skulk Of Foxes

Time is short, so I chose a few of my favourites from A Skulk Of Foxes' new products at www.askulkoffoxes.com.au and got typing straight away! Let us know which pieces are your favourites too...

Silver Rabbit cufflinks by Melbourne designer Natalie Cirillo of A Skulk of Foxes

Rabbit Cufflinks in Sterling Silver, AUD $104.30 (were $149), by A Skulk Of Foxes

posted: 08 May 2009 | 0 comments | leave a comment
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moon-age: other worlds

Kaleidoscope Siren by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

Starting with a colour or pattern, Moon-age loses herself in the creative process. This was the case with "Kaleidoscope Siren" - "a creature who flies through the air in a blur of colour, twigs and feathers."

Opening this week at Palmer Projects, Darlinghurst, is Alex Moon-age's first solo exhibition. We are thrilled to be supporting "OTHER WORLDS (they have not told you of)" and hope that many of our Sydney readers will be able to attend the opening night this Thursday or visit the exhibition during the following week. Alex's drawings & collages possess a rawness and energy that bring them to life. With their strong hand-drawn lines, vibrant colours and anamorphic figures, these works inhabit spaces between imagination and reality. Edgy & exciting, emerging artist Moon-age is one to watch!

Other Worlds exhibition by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

Exhibition flyer featuring "Other Worlds", a self portrait by Moon-age. She created the costume and head piece, took photos and added collage. The skirt (or floating cloud) is created from strange patterns and various organic matter.

Psychedelic princess Alex Moon-age graduated from COFA (College of Fine Arts) last year. At 21, she is already one of Sydney's most exciting emerging artists. Obsessed by the theatrical, and renowned for her outrageous wardrobe, Moon-age's creative process extends into fashion and music. In addition to drawings, photos, mixed media works & collages, Alex will be exhibiting flamboyant wearable fashion creations as part of a performance art piece. There will also be a short animation projection and sound installation.

Other Worlds exhibition by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

"Noodle Horse" by Moon-age.

Alex works impulsively, aiming to engage with the subconscious mind. She creates mythical histories for imagined worlds, then translates them into distorted, wildly colourful images. Visual patterns tend to emerge - references to nature, animal-human transfiguration and androgynous, imaginary creatures.

Other Worlds exhibition by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

"Angry Spirit" by Moon-age.

Influenced by the surreal nature of illustration in underground 1960s publications such as 'Oz' magazine, Alex's artworks appear simultaneously nostalgic and contemporary, beautiful and morbid. Her collages hark back to the Dada collages of Raol Hausmann, and contain pages of books, newspapers, sewing patterns and patterned paper which have been reinvigorated and reconstructed within the frame of her work.

Birds and the Bees by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

"The Birds and the Bees" by Moon-age. Collage, paint, pen, & old sewing pattern.

Moon-age embodies a Surrealist sensibility - drawing on the tools of psychoanalysis and meditation. With heightened tension between reality and illusion, her artworks show a deep understanding of the abstract reality of the subconscious.

Rainbow Ghost by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

"Rainbow Ghost" by Moon-age. Mixed media.

Alex feels inspired & unrestricted when working with mixed media, creating different textures from pen, pencil, paint, pastel & collage. She hopes that each viewer sees something a little different in the subject matter as various creatures and faces make up the larger image. She also loves to lose herself in a piece of music and see where it leads her image making - Frank Zappa is especially great for this!

Rainbow Monster by Sydney artist Alex Moon-Age

Rainbow Monster by Moon-age

"Rainbow Monster" (above) is one of my favourites from the artworks we've pictured. The areas of intricate detail contrasting with heavier, rough lines... and the colours!! The blue background works so well and there is a sense of constant movement & energy. Love it. We're so excited about Alex's exhibition & can't wait to get along to Palmer Projects. At first sight, her vivid, detailed works grabbed our attention... they really are something!

OTHER WORLDS (they have not told you of) by Moon-age opens at Palmer Projects Gallery Space on Thursday evening, May 7th 2009. If you're in Sydney, come along to the opening from 6.30 - 9.30pm. It continues until 14th May at 2/238 Palmer St, Darlinghurst, 2010. Gallery opening hours are:
Friday 12-5pm
Saturday 12-4pm
Tuesday 12-5pm
Wednesday 12-5pm

posted: 04 May 2009 | 5 comments | leave a comment
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graphic bags

Apple and Bee collaboration with InsideOut Magazine - hemp bag organiser designed by Grace Lee.

A surprise is in store when you purchase the May/June issue of Inside Out magazine! Talented designer Grace Lee (who is responsible for adding gorgeous handwritten text flourishes throughout the pages of Inside Out) has dreamed up this cute little accessories bag. Inside Out collaborated with Australian label Apple & Bee to produce the hemp bag organisers - one especially for each Inside Out reader! Grace's bag may not take charge of your hectic schedule, but it promises to keep you handbag contents under control.

Apple and Bee collaboration with InsideOut Magazine - hemp bag organiser designed by Grace Lee.

Inside Out has recently launched their own blog to which all the staff contribute. Sally (editorial administration manager) asked Grace to draw a little portrait of her cat, Olive, which you can see on her Saving Grace post, (along with two more of Grace's illustrations).

Small Make-Up bag by Apple and Bee

BRAND NEW Small Make-Up bag by Apple & Bee, AUD $21.95

Apple & Bee is an Australian label that designs and makes cosmetic, travel and baby bags. Their impressive debut range sprung up in stores all over the place early last year, and the brand has already gained a loyal following! The bags are finished beautifully, and the fabric prints really set them apart. Pictured above is the Small Make Up bag from the BRAND NEW range which will be availble from next week. Loving the colour palette (as well as the cute birdie print)!

Fold Out WC by Apple and Bee

Fold Out WC by Apple & Bee, AUD $49.95

I do love all the fabric designs, but I think the navy peacock print remains my favourite. We've given the travel cosmetic bag pictured above to a couple of lucky mums! (I think I might just purchase one for myself too...)

Pencil Case by Apple and Bee

BRAND NEW Pencil Case by Apple & Bee, AUD $30.00

Behind the Apple & Bee label are Brett Pattinson and Claire Morris. Brett is the founder of successful natural skincare company bod and bod for bubs and Claire is the former Art Director of marieclaire. Through Apple & Bee they've combined their experience and design skills with a committment to making the lowest possible impact on the environment. Both share a passion for the best in contemporary design and a belief that it can and should be applied to practical, everyday objects.

Wooden Handle Clutch by Apple and Bee

BRAND NEW Wooden Handle Clutch by Apple & Bee, AUD $89.95

The gorgeous Wooden Handle Clutch pictured above is proving to be really popular, so if you'd like one for yourself, don't be slow! (It will be available to purchase from next week.) It is lined with the finest bamboo silk and is a great accessory for day or night. The entire Apple & Bee lineup comprises eco-friendly material choices - natural fibres such as certified organic cotton, bamboo silk, hemp, burlap/calico and genuine leather. Apple & Bee is a carbon neutral company and applied its philosophy to every level of the business, from design and sourcing to manufacturing, warehousing, packaging and delivery services.

Large Make-Up bag by Apple and Bee

Large Make-Up bag by Apple & Bee, AUD $36.95

Apple & Bee products are available throughout Australia, as well as in the UK and USA. Visit www.appleandbee.com to locate your nearest stockist or to see more of the range!

posted: 28 Apr 2009 | 4 comments | leave a comment
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peppermint magazine

Peppermint Magazine Cover - Issue 2 featuring illustration of Summer Rayne Oakes by Bec Winnel

ISSUE TWO of the very lovely Peppermint Magazine is out now... and it has grown! Boasting a larger format and 90 pages (100% post-consumer recycled, naturally!), the mag is bursting with the freshest green fashion on the planet. One look at the dreamy cover & you'll most likely recognise the beautiful girly-girl style of Melbourne graphic designer & illustrator Bec Winnel. (We'll also be posting a follow up artist interview with Bec very soon!)

The day I received Peppermint in the mail, I pored over it for hours on end - my favourite pages being the "Welcome Back" photo editorial. Dizzying late afternoon light, saturated colours, ...and balloons!!

Peppermint Magazine Issue 2 photo editorial Welcome Back

Welcome Back features once-loved fabrics being given a new lease of life. Photographer Christine Day Lorico has captured the free spirit of eco-friendly fashion as Pheobe Rutaquio models unique, often one-of-a-kind garments made from reclaimed, vintage & upcycled fabrics. Pictured above are the Blue Fire Dress by Heidi & Seek (left, US $79), and the Purdy Dress by East of Grey (right, AUD $470).

Peppermint Magazine Issue 2 eco art competition entries

Each issue, Peppermint Magazine runs an Art Eco Competition, and the theme for this issue was "what goes around comes around"... The theme can be interpreted using any creative medium - design, painting, illustration, sculpture etc. and three finalists are selected by guest judges. This issue's winner is Alyson Pearson from Byron Bay (NSW) with her illustration "Land of Letterville" (above right). On the left is a super crafty entry by Bethany Watt from Newmarket (QLD). She used freestyle pattern making (!!), single machine stitch and recycled fabrics to create her summer dress entry. She has even included Lenny Kravitz lyrics (What Goes Around) on the sash.

By the way, the theme for Issue 3 is "Water: every drop counts" so creatives can get thinking now!

Peppermint Magazine spread - Summer Rayne Oakes

Peppermint Magazine offers feature articles on avante-guarde activist and Discovery Planet Green's model correspondent Summer Rayne Oakes (pictured above), fair trade in the fashion industry, green graphic design (pictured below right), and haunting series of photos and accompanying interview with visual journalist Juriaan Booij about the sinking of Tuvalu. There's also "Breaking the Pattern" - our indie art & design interview with Umbrella Prints! Read the full interview here.

Peppermint Magazine Issue 2 articles - Breaking the Pattern indie art and design interview with Umbrella Prints and Green Graphic Design

Something the crafters among us are sure to love is new Peppermint Magazine feature "little miss sew & sew". This issue will teach you to make a blouse out of an old shirt - just like the one below!

Peppermint Magazine Issue 2 feature: little miss sew & sew

Peppermint Magazine is available for AUD $9.95 from Borders, MagNation, selected newsagents across Australia and online at Leeloo. (I spied copies in the newsagents in Newtown & Erskineville in Sydney!) If you are already a big fan of Peppermint (like me), why not subscribe now, and receive 4 issues (starting from Issue 3) delivered to your door with free postage! Subscriptions are AUD $40 for Australians, $60 for New Zealanders, and $80 for folk from the rest of the world.

We are also excited to have two copies to GIVE AWAY! To win, simply leave a comment on this post and I'll draw two winners at random on 1.5.2009. Good luck!

posted: 21 Apr 2009 | 24 comments | leave a comment
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