independent artist

Congratulations to Claire Suzy Stannard whose exhibition, 'Version 1' at Gallery Adagio (Glebe), was really impressive! Little red dots were scattered throughout, which is always great to see on an opening night, and there were quite a few pieces that I wanted to take home - such as the pink acrylic wall pieces pictured above!

The bronze pieces were smaller than I expected from the images I'd seen previously, and the scale worked really well. You can see more of Claire's work at www.clairesuzystannard.com - from here you can choose to visit her art + design site (to see more of her sculptural work) or visit Stannard Inc to see her "mens & womens urban accessories". (Check out The Bronze Age range!!)

I'm looking forward to seeing lots more of Claire's work in the future! If you attended the exhibition, we'd love to hear your comments...

Sydney-based artist & designer Claire Suzy Stannard's first solo exhibition, 'Version 1', is opening at Gallery Adagio (Glebe) in this Friday evening. As we're proudly sponsoring the show, we thought we should fill you in about Claire's inspirations, motivations & processes - so we asked here a few questions...

I 1. What led you down the path of art & design?

CSS One of the main aspects I find fascinating is the physical constraints that designing involves. It leads to a process of constant problem solving... ...dealing with the immovable laws of physics, while simultaneously trying to mesh them with a concept that is engaging and aesthetically pleasing (the art component).It promotes a mental nimbleness, taking set factors & constantly reconfiguring them.
So to put it simply it could be about the quest of the perfect (but unobtainable) solution... utilising left and right brain!

I 2. Who are your favourite artists/designers & how have they inspired your current work?

CSS In 1919 Johannes Itten wrote the first basic course for the Bauhaus in Germany. He attempted to strip back all the superfluous flourishes that became popular styles with artisans. Simple explorations in the theory of colour, forms & materials amongst other areas encouraged students to start their work from a position of honesty & integrity, and had the added benefit of producing really original, varied works. To look at it now it is incredibly contemporary. He was an original thinker.

Andy Goldsworthy does amazing, in situ works. Using mainly natural materials he creates patterns & structures that seem to defy the laws of nature. They are painstakingly constructed only to be destroyed by the elements a short time later. Itten & Goldsworthy's work are linked by their seemingly simple approach & beauty, but are beguilingly complex. In my own work I am attempting to achieve this balance.

I 3. With their striking composition & perspective, your wall pieces seem to move between 2D and 3D space – did you begin making two-dimensional art and move into sculpture, or are you a sculptor who sees the hanging space on gallery walls as another location to explore?

CSS 3D work is my real interest, due to the challenging nature of it, but I don’t think I’ve ever consciously distinguished the difference. I just make. The impossible perspective pieces in particular are about having fun by teasing the eye & attempting to trick the brain.

I 4. What are your favourite materials to work with & why?

CSS As I like working quickly I look for materials that are easy to manipulate so that my ideas can take form rapidly for which wood is ideal. Plus its sensuous grain, tactile nature & smell are beautiful.

I 5. How do you balance your time between your art practice & commercial jewellery design?

CSS I'm pretty unorganized so I do a 6 month plan for the jewellery business (new products, marketing etc) & implement it depending on its urgency 2-5 days per week.

The art is left to develop & follow its own course in the remaining time.

I 6. In what direction do you plan to take your art in the future?

CSS I imagine that it will become more reductionist as I go along… the eternal quest for truth & beauty...but we'll see how the exhibition goes!

'Version 1' opens on Friday 19th September, from 6pm - 9pm & continues until 6th October at:

Gallery Adagio
91 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, NSW, 2009.
ph. 02 9552 2833

Hope to see some of you there!

In just over a week, Gerard Smith - "the guy in the art store" and author of The Weekend Artist will be demonstrating some of his acrylic painting projects for all to see... If you're a Sydneysider looking to liven up your lounge room wall, come along & meet Gerard in person. He really is hilarious, so the afternoon demo is sure to be as entertaining as it is educational! Details are as follows:

Oxford Art Supplies and Books
145 Victoria Ave,
Chatswood, 2067.
phone: 02 9417 8572
Saturday 30th August, 2-3pm
FREE!

We first discovered Sydney-based artist & designer Claire Suzy Stannard when she exhibited her contemporary jewellery & accessories at Hope Street Markets back in May. We were impressed then, and we're thrilled now to announce that Claire is having a solo exhibition titled 'Version 1' at Gallery Adagio (Glebe) in September. indie art & design is proudly sponsoring 'Version 1' & looking forward to posting an artist feature closer to the date!

Claire Suzy Stannard has always been fascinated with the flawlessness of geometric art & the purity of the etherial Platonic Form, eternal & beyond the reach of the mundane world of error and compromise. Her recent work explores the ideals of balance and symmetry in modern design. Displayed in 2- and 3-dimensions, Claire's work uses a variety of media including wood, perspex & recycled materials (commonly created then discarded by modern society) to create sculptures & wall-pieces that invite the viewer to partake of the geometric aesthetic.

The result is a playful exploration that resembles part 70s sci-fi movie set, brutalist forms from the old soviet block and some 1950s modernism for good measure.

'Version 1' opens on Friday 19th September, from 6pm - 9pm & continues until 6th October at:

Gallery Adagio
91 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, NSW, 2009.
ph. 02 9552 2833

We're already looking forward to the opening! (These images look fantastic, so I can't wait to see more of Claire's work on show...)

Midnight Morning - a limited and handcrafted publication combining the distinct work of Haline Ly, Matt Huynh and Will Loeng.

TONIGHT is the launch of exciting new book + exhibition "Midnight Morning". We first discovered the talented Matt Huynh & his alter ego STiKMAN Comics through the Hope Street Markets back in June 2007. I love his experimental graphic novels - he has produced sooo many great artworks (which have appeared on all sorts of things - from clothing & magazines to tattoos & vinyl toys), and is also represented by the Jacky Winter Group. Matt has collaborated with fellow members of the Popperbox collective of Sydney-based artists, Haline Ly and Will Loeng, to produce a new & never-before-seen illustration series celebrating shared experiences of love and devastation.

"Good Things Only" by Haline Ly, from handcrafted publication Midnight Morning

"Midnight Morning represents the fruition of a long standing personal ambition to work alongside two of my favourite artists on a fiercely independent, self-initiated project. My admiration for both Haline Ly and Will Loeng's insightful work has only intensified since my exposure to their profound artistic ethos has guided this exploration of affirming themes, new techniques and illustrative styles beyond my individual reach." - Matt Huynh.

"Rorschach" by Will Loeng, from handcrafted publication Midnight Morning

I'm really looking forward to seeing more work by Haline Ly and Will Loeng... Haline was born in Suresnes in France and migrated to Australia in 1986. Her work is full of colour, characters & critters and she also sells selected artworks, toys & badges through her online store www.claretduskymoonpie.com.

Will has taken part in collaborative exhibitions including From Here, Sincerely (2007), Extra Cheeese (2007), Copy Cats 2 (2007) and Fields of Conversation (2007). He is inspired by the delicacy of Art Nouveau and his works have also appeared in shop windows and interiors, magazines, websites, clothing, posters and an upcoming album cover. (For which band, I wonder?...)

"Wardrobe" by Matt Huynh, from handcrafted publication Midnight Morning

The Midnight Morning book is also available from www.popperbox.com/midnightmorning for AUD $40. It features a hand-pressed dust jacket cover, 15 mini-posters, measures 280x280mm and is beautifully printed onto 325gsm paper stock.

To commemorate the release of the book, Midnight Morning will be launched with a concurrent show at Rococo Productions' warehouse exhibition space. For one night only, original artwork from the book wil be displayed and will be available for sale alongside a selection of the artists' other artwork, books & prints. All three artists will be there to meet us fans, discuss their work & sign editions of the book.

"Confetti" by Haline Ly, from handcrafted publication Midnight Morning

If you are in Sydney, you'll be wanting to make tracks to the Midnight Morning Book Launch and Exhibition - tonight! Details are as follows:

6pm - 9pm
Thursday 17th July 2008
12 O'Connell St, Newtown
Admission is free & refreshments & music provided!

"Spin" by Matt Huynh, from handcrafted publication Midnight Morning

On tonight is the book launch of The Weekend Artist by local Sydney artist Gerard Smith, better known as "the guy in the art store". If you're in Sydney, why not join the celebrations at:

Oxford Art Supplies
221 – 225 Oxford St,
Darlinghurst, 2010.
Thursday 10th July, 6–8pm

The Weekend Artist is full of projects designed to release your inner artist. It gives you just enough technical information to create contemporary, achieveable works that would be a bold addition to any home. Gerard has kindly answered a few of our questions to give us some insight into the process of getting published!

I 1. How did the book come about?

GS When I decided to study graphic design, I scored a part-time job at Oxford Art Supplies in Darlinghurst. After a while I began to notice that there was a demand from customers for simple projects that they could do in a weekend and no be embarrassed to hang on their wall. I started to draw up some basic projects and it sort of went from there.

I 2. So how did you get the deal?

GS I literally rang Murdoch books out of the blue and asked them the process involved in getting a book published. They in turn sent me a list of requirements which was quite in-depth. I gave myself two months to put together a proposal, which involved developing more projects, writing sample text and designing the format. I really want to stress that I didn't get this deal through any connections - I come form the least artistic family in the world. If you have the desire to do something you can always make or find your own breaks.

I 3.What was the process like?

GS It was fun, but exhausting. Each project has step-by-step photographs, so I had to make up about 3-4 prototypes for each project because the photographer obviously can't wait for paint to dry. I really enjoyed writing even if some of my more slightly risque puns were cut out by the editor. I did manage to get the word 'piss' (as in piss off) in there which I was quite proud of. I had this silly thing in my head where I wanted to be the first 'how-to' book with a swear word in it!

I 4. What's it like to see your book on the shelf?

GS The first time I went to find the book I went into Borders and asked the assistant did they 'have a book called The Weekend Artist, by some guy called Smith, I think' - I was too embarrassed to tell her it was my book. She said they had one in stock and we went to the shelves to find it. It wasn't there, so she did some more research and told me that it had been stolen! I took that as enormous compliment. I figure if it's good enough to steal, then it's good enough to buy!

I Thanks so much Gerard & all the best for the book launch tonight! Fingers crossed for The Weekend Artist going platinum... can books do that? You'll find copies of Gerard's shiny new book (AUD $34.95) on the shelves of quite a few Australian bookstores, including Oxford Art Supplies (Chatswood & Darlinghurst, Sydney & ONLINE).

"Hello Owl" by Kareena Zerefos.

Kareena Zerefos is an incredibly talented artist & illustrator from Sydney. She has exhibited in a number of group shows this year, and her work has been appearing all over the place! She is responsible for the stunning artwork on the Sparkadia album covers, and many of you would have seen her work featured throughout Yen Magazine's Issue 31. (We also mentioned Kareena's work when we posted about the Grrrls exhibition at aMBUSH Gallery in February.) Kareena's first solo show opens next week, and she has taken a little time out from drawing to answer some of our questions, so read on!

MTV Gallery flyer - an exhibition of illustrative works by Kareena Zerefos.

I 1. Firstly, congratulations on your first solo exhibition! How are you feeling about the show?

KZ Thank you! Very excited and extremely nervous, I’m just not sure what to expect. I kind of feel like a teenager putting on a party, I’m like 'will anyone show up?' and 'how do I get enough drinks?'. More seriously, I'm pretty happy with my new pieces and its going to be great seeing peoples responses to them.

Sparkadia Animals album cover by Kareena Zerefos.

I 2. I'm sure many of our readers would absolutely love to earn a living as an artist/illustrator. What path did you follow to get to this point your career?

KZ I always wanted to be an artist, but never thought I'd be able to make a living from it, so I took design at the College of Fine Arts – I thought being a designer seemed more viable. Then I worked as a graphic designer, and dabbled in web design, while I continued to draw and develop my style on the side. It's only been the last few months that I've been lucky enough to be able to drop the job, with enough freelance and commission work to keep me fed and the bills paid.

"His Name Was Sebastien" by Kareena Zerefos.

I 3. Do you think it's a difficult industry in which to carve your own niche, or do you find that agents/galleries/publications are receptive to new talent & ideas?

KZ It is a difficult industry, but I think if you just go with your own ideas and style and really put it out there, you then find that people are always looking for someone fresh.

"Hot Air Balloon" by Kareena Zerefos.

I 4. You have a drawing style that I personally adore, and it is quite recognisable. Have you always used this approach, or did you develop this style through experimentation over time?

KZ My style has very much evolved, and it still is evolving. I originally worked in a way that was based on graphic design techniques and was often finishing my pieces off digitally... but I then found that I wanted my pieces to stay away from the computer, so I started working with different media – particularly letraset, ink and even tea, as well as my favourite pencils, gouache and felt tips.

"Bumblebee Girl" by Kareena Zerefos for the Jeremyville Sketchel project.

I 5. How did you find exhibiting earlier this year in the Grrrls group exhibition (aMBUSH Gallery, Waterloo)?

KZ It was great to exhibit along side so many fabulous female artists. Our styles, materials and techniques were all so varied, but it came together really well.

"Girl with Mouse" by Kareena Zerefos.

I 6. Have you been to any recent exhibitions that you've just loved?

KZ To be honest, I feel like I haven't left my studio for a long time now. So the last show I went to that I loved was Kids Today at MTV.

"Portrait" and "Little Boy Daydreaming" by Kareena Zerefos.

I 7. From what I've seen, your artworks seem to be based on very personal themes. Your approach seems subtle & emotional. What inspires you to create these works?

KZ I work with themes of isolation and escapism – I guess essentially this is inspired by living in my own little dream world, and that feeling of loneliness and the desire to be somewhere else, that a lot of people relate to. I mostly use images of children and their imaginations to depict this, and look at old photographs, film and children’s books to draw inspiration.

"Across the Board" and "Element Bluebird" by Kareena Zerefos.

I 8. Do you have any favourites, or new works you’re particularly excited about?

KZ I'm excited about quite a few of my new pieces, I've been drawing quite a few pictures of children with their animal friends and have also done a series of bumblebee children, which have a really nice bittersweet feeling about them.

Sparkadia Postcards album cover by Kareena Zerefos.

I 9. Do you like to collaborate with visual artists & other creatives? (I love the new Sparkadia album cover – how did this come about?)

KZ I do! I've recently collaborated with fashion designers, eve and sera from sewn, creating a delicate repeat pattern for their next spring/summer range; as well as sparkadia, with their album, singles and ep artwork; and I just finished up some pieces yesterday working with the mambo goddess designers.

... and thank you! I met Alex years ago at a BBQ and have worked with the band ever since; the Lion illustration came about after Alex and I discussed 'Sparkadia' as being a place or another fantasy world and the lion is the king of the jungle. It is also a reference to the last track on the album, Sleeping Lion, which is one of my favourites.

Kareena Zerefos web site screenshot.

I 10. Do people discover your artworks through your web site (www.kareenazerefos.com) & online "Corner Store", or do you see the site as a resource for people who already know & love your work?

KZ I'd like to think that its for both, I try to keep my site updated with new work and a bit of a news blog so people can come back and see what has been happening.

"They Defeat The Mean Giants" by Kareena Zerefos.

I 11. What are some of your career highlights so far?

KZ This year has been quite exciting in terms of 'highlights' - I quit my job to be an artist full time; I've exhibited work amongst amazing local and international artists at Curvy, Kids Today and Grrrls; and I have just over a week left until my first solo show!

Exhibition of artwork by Kareena Zerefos.

I 12. Where are you headed artistically in the future?

KZ Doing more of what I'm doing now, continuing to develop my style and hopefully have solo shows in other cities later in the year.

Kareena Zerefos.

I Thank you so much Kareena, and all the best for the exhibition next week - I'm really looking forward to the opening night! For those of you in Sydney, get along to MTV Gallery in East Sydney (4-16 Yurong St) on Tuesday night, 3.6.2008! The opening is from 6pm - 9pm, and there will be an acoustic performance by Alex Burnett from Sparkadia. If you can't make it to the opening, the exhibition continues until 10.6.2008.

Mizuko and Hanako art prints by Luke Feldman (aka SKAFFS)

Opening tomorrow night at Paper Shadow Gallery is "Perpetual Kagemi", an exhibition of works by Luke Feldman (aka SKAFFS). Luke has spent the last few years travelling between San Francisco, California & Melbourne and sees this exhibition as a chance to showcase his original works in acrylic & graphite on wood, ink sketches & digital artworks in his home town.

The opening night will be filled with art, live painting, music, drinks & Crumpler giveaways, so if you're in Melbourne, head to Paper Shadow Gallery at 34 Franklin St, Melbourne (within Miss Libertine). The opening begins at 7pm on Friday 4th April, and the exhibition continues on Saturday 5th.

Travel To Mirai art print and Contemplation (acrylic & graphite on birchwood) by Luke Feldman (aka SKAFFS)

Luke's work is synonymous with stunningly beautiful and whimsical depictions of the female form. His use of vibrant colours, fluid linework & careful composition & design give these works a distinctive style which has caught the eye of many local & international reviewers (as well as some big brand names).

Original acrylic artworks by Luke Feldman (aka SKAFFS)

"Perpetual Kagemi" is an exploration of femininity in a traditional and modern context with an Asian twist. The term "Kagemi" means to "look at each other" and it specifically refers to traditional Japanese arranged marriages (Omiai). During the ritual, Kagemi refers to a "hidden look" - a sneak peak at a potential bride. Today Japanese Omiai is becoming replaced by "love match" marriages. In this context, the Kagemi would not be a quick peek but a continuous viewing of women. Perpetual Kagemi explores changing attitudes, old traditions and female beauty.

Nito and Mai art prints by Luke Feldman (aka SKAFFS)

Luke has adapted his style for multiple applications. In addition to original artworks & limited edition prints, you can also purchase "Skaffnets" (magnets), skatedecks and vinyl adhesives through the SKAFFS web site. Vinyl toys are also in production!
His work is also available to purchase through the following Australian stockists:
Villain Store (Brunswick, VIC)
Robio Store (Fitzroy, VIC)
Nice Produce (Online store featuring Melbourne artists)
Lost At E Minor (Online)
(International stockists are listed at www.skaffs.com.)

Art prints by Luke Feldman (aka SKAFFS)

The crazy characters in these artworks seem to leap from the canvas to fill the room with chatter and wild animal noises! The paintings are the result of a collaboration between artists Nicole Tattersall and Pep, and these two images will be hanging in the Random Collective exhibition which opens this Sunday (3pm - 6pm). It's on at Wonthaggi in the South Gippsland area and will feature the work of more than a dozen Australian artists plus a few from Germany & the UK... Artists include Floh, Seldom, Fray, Nicole Tattersall, Nom Kinnear-King, Leeana Edwards, Tanko, Sach, Pierre, Maxberry, Vars, Nayve, Ears, Pep, Chelsea Greaves and more.

On opening day (this Sunday 2nd March, 2008) Random Collective will be hosting a variety of activities to involve the whole community including a Stencil Workshop, a Stencil Opportunity and a Raffle (of artworks & other great prizes). All profits from the above will be going towards the South Gippsland Conversation Society. If you'll be in the area, make sure to get along!

Random Collective: 2 - 29 March 2008,
Where: Over 2 Kate's, 50-52 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi.
Exhibition Opening: 3pm - 6pm, Sunday 2nd March 2008.