We’ve long been fans of Melbourne digital artist Kimmy Hogan. A graphic designer by trade, she spent many months developing a technique that combines her love of botanicals and oil painting with a digital brush. ‘Gathered’ is her latest collection and it was inspired by the look and feel of flowers freshly picked.
The ‘Gathered’ collection
“I wanted this collection to look loose and relaxed – just the way you would throw together some flowers you have gathered from your own garden. Messy and beautiful,” says Kimmy whose limited edition works are available through Greenhouse Interiors where she is the top selling artist in Julia Green’s stable.
“That just blows my mind – completely! I feel so privileged to be represented by Julia who works so hard for all of her artists. I could never have imagined that my art was going to have the success that it has – I feel really grateful it has been so well received and I’m really enjoying the journey it’s taken me on.”
‘Gathered III’
As for a favourite piece, Kimmy is most taken with Gathered IV which crops in on some detail. “I like that it has a really loose more abstract feel where the elements are free to dance all over the page. It’s one that could be hung in any direction, depending on how you prefer it,” says Kimmy.
‘Gathered IV’ is Kimmy’s favourite piece from the new range
You’d better be quick though as this collection has a more limited run than Kimmy’s previous ones, with only 30 prints per piece.
‘Gathered I’“My business has grown and evolved alongside my family and I. Hiring my assistant Rose a year ago was the best thing I ever did – it was essential to have the extra hands to keep up with demand but it also means I can focus more on the creative process. And with three little boys to raise I have less time in the studio, so I’ve really focused on getting streamlined systems in place,” says Kimmy.
Kimmy Hogan ‘Gathered’ collection prints start at $310.
Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green for Greenhouse Interiors
Between her TV hosting duties and super successful interior design career, Shaynna Blaze spends a lot of time on planes, which is what provided the fodder for her latest collaboration with Urban Road. “When Suzie and I decided to do our third collection, I knew exactly what it was going to be. It’s inspired by my years of travel around Australia and overseas – staring out of a plane window, and taking in the different shapes, patterns and palettes of the spaces below,” says Shaynna.
Titled ‘In Plane View,’ the collection is a series of aerial landscapes – a celebration of nature from a topographical point of view. “This collection, I can really see, can go in everybody’s house, and in every room,” says Shaynna of the versatile range.
Urban Road’s Suzie Atkin with Shaynna Blaze
“The collection is more lifestyle, and it’s pattern, it’s texture, and it’s also about micro-snaps. If you look at a landscape as a whole, you’re looking at the big picture, but because we’re zooming in on areas, you can also imagine a farmer working in a field, you can imagine a car driving by, or even a surfer in the ocean. I like people to look at artwork and put themselves in that place, and I feel like these pieces do that.”
Comprised of 12 new designs, the collection, out today, features warm, earthy sands and cool, blue oceans alongside vibrant jewel-toned lakes and fields. Think aerial snapshots of deserts, oceans, fields and plains.
Shaynna with one of the pieces from her latest Urban Road collection
It follows on from Shaynna’s successful collaborations with the affordable art brand in 2015 and 2016.
Recently renovated by the team at SJB, who removed all traces of a previous 1980’s-era renovation, this heritage Melbourne home ‘Villa D’Arte’ is full of drama and strong paint choices – the latter of which saw it nominated in this year’s Dulux Colour Awards.
Study
“Working with clients that were well known to us, the project was essentially a reversal of downsizing where the client and a large art collection were moving from a contemporary penthouse to a grand Italianate villa,” says Andrew Parr, director of SJB.
The grand old home from the streetMaster ensuite
“There was also a large collection of furniture to be incorporated including both a contemporary collection from a penthouse and historic collection from their farmhouse,” says Andrew of the project that was completed in early 2018.
Guest bathroomThe staircase, where old meets new
The gorgeous historic heritage home now boasts a contemporary extension that was crafted in concrete and zinc and the monochromatic scheme really makes the owners’ art collection pop.
Kitchen
“The new extension in concrete and zinc inhabits the outdoor space and provides a contemporary component isolated from the main heritage volume. The kitchen and butler’s pantry residing within this area uses black timber cabinetry and heavily veined black marble to counter the great penetration of light and brightly coloured contemporary art,” says Andrew.
The rear extension
“The continuation of timber as a flooring ties the whole back to the house as does the view back into the garden and heritage elements of the house. Fine details such as the slim vertical black pendant lamps over the marble island visually cohere to the black steel framed windows and black line seen throughout the project,” says Andrew.
Formal loungeMaster bedroom – the artwork above the fireplace slides across to reveal a TV
Based almost exclusively around nature, the Spring/Summer 2018 collection of affordable art from Urban Road is called ‘Reminisce’ and it certainly does have a warm, nostalgic vibe. There’s plenty of blooms and foliage alongside ocean vistas and depictions of the night sky and the palette runs the full colour spectrum too, meaning there’s plenty of choice.
The statement ‘Flourish’ print features a magnolia unfurling‘Monkey Mia’ print
“Urban Road’s latest release feels like sifting through old photographs. Starlit skies, sleepy seashores and sunburned landscapes – a breathtaking recollection of memories unaffected by time, an invitation to Reminisce,” says Suzie Atkin, the creative director of Urban Road.
I love the fabulous palette of this ‘Australian Flora’ print
Looking to the Australian landscape, there’s plenty of intricate native flora and vast landscapes captured with light and colour. “A sense of timelessness is felt in constellations, reflected in the facets of semi-precious stones; blurred mountain ranges standing soft, yet resolute; the unfading beauty of black and white icons,” says Suzie in reference to one of the prints – a black and white painterly depiction of Deborah Harry.
Deborah Harry stars in the ‘Call Me’ print‘Fire Opal’ print
“While each artwork stands perfectly in solitude, the culmination of pieces is a collection that assembles itself like a show reel of memories, created to be relived over and over again,” says Suzie. Standouts for me include the ‘Australian Flora’ and ‘Fire Opal’ print – I love their gorgeous burgundy shades. The Australiana-inspired pieces such as the ‘Coolibah’ signal a fresh direction for the brand too.
‘Coolibah’ print
Aside from affordable art, the Urban Road collection now includes home decor items, acrylic artworks, and, most recently, a diverse poster collection. All up, the brand’s catalogue now boasts over 1000 items.
They say you can’t go wrong with nature, right? Wrong! How you style your flowers can make them look anything from sad to spectacular! Want to know how to arrange flowers like a pro? Stylist Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors shares some simple yet brilliant advice below.
These beautiful floral artworks are by Brisbane’s Beth Kennedy. “Flowers are so beautiful and I love to draw and paint them, always beginning with a drawing, a slow and contemplative process before the loud music plays in my headphones and the coffee flows as I engage with the emotional narrative driving the work and begin to paint,” she says. “I only work on one painting at a time, as it completely absorbs me, until it is finished and then I move on to the next one.”
Julia’s floral styling tips:
1. Ensure the bunches are relaxed, not tight. A wider neck vase will help them fall naturally rather than look uptight! It’s all about ‘field flowers’ now, that look like they have just been picked from the garden.
2. Remember to play with the height and the scale of the florals, so that they create visual interest. If they are all exactly the same height, they will be far less interesting to the eye!
3. Mix varietals rather than always opt for one varietal only.
4. Always trim stems, and prune leaves for longer lasting florals, change the water every three days, and add flower food if you have any! Natives will always last longer too.
5. Find an accent colour in the room and tie the florals back with it, i.e. pull out a colour cue from an artwork and repeat it with the flowers for a considered look to the space. Buy beautiful vessels to house the florals in so that they can be a ‘work of art’ on their own.
Artists at Sydney Road Gallery are celebrating a successful first year with many locals in Sydney’s Northern Beaches making a visit to the gallery part of their weekly coffee run. And with more than 350 pieces sold in its first year of trading, its disruptive business model is proving quite a triumph.
Sydney Road Gallery
“Each of our artists take on a role within the gallery. Usually a studio practice involves PR, pitches, deliveries, follow ups, websites, accounts and so much more. Having this centralised gives the artist more time in the studio to do what they do best. Each task is something the artist finds doable knowing others are covering the rest,” says artist and founder Fiona Chandler of the co-operative space.
Fiona Chandler’s ‘Click Your Heels Twice’
The other thing that makes the gallery unique is that potential buyers are afforded direct access to the artists. “It really is more than just a gallery. People these days are craving connection and conversation, our gallery provides a space for people to connect with the artists themselves. When you come into the gallery to enjoy the art, you have an opportunity to meet the person who created it. That’s a really unique experience,” says Fiona.
Jessica Watts’ ‘I Love You Like’ oil painting
The gallery plays host to a variety of art from contemporary Australian landscapes to 3D sculptures and is comprised of 12 artists, each bringing unique skills to create a community that believe that everyone can be a patron of the arts. “It’s a place where stories are shared about the art, the space, the influences on our artists, directly from the artist themselves. There’s a sense of belonging through shared storytelling that is unique,” says Fiona.
A recent exhibition
The gallery has also worked on openings and styling with companies like Amazema Homes, Manly Spirits and the Plant Room – the artists’ combined experience creates beautiful and memorable spaces. “We work with people to discover how art can fit into their homes and businesses,” says Fiona.
If you love floral art as much as we do, you’re going to be swooning over the fresh new works from Aussie artists Fleur (no pun intended!) Woods and Morgan Jamieson.
The Soul Garden series, by New Zealand artist Fleur, is a collection of made-to-originals and limited edition prints. Layers of paint, stitch and gold leaf celebrate Fleur’s love of flora.
She loves walking in nature, taking time to notice the details and bringing the sense of balance and calm she experiences while picking flowers to the composition of her artworks. From the joyful big blooms of ‘Roses and Rainbows’ to the artful arrangements of ‘Scatter Flowers’ and ‘Always and Always’, these pieces are a flower lover’s dream with delicate hand embroidery the icing on the cake.
Meanwhile, Morgan’s latest series for Greenhouse Interiors was completed during the months after having her first child; a time where creativity was soaring but time was somewhat limited. Sound familiar, anyone?!
Drawing inspiration from actual flower studies, Morgan completed this series both on paper and canvas. Experimenting with different surfaces enabled her to tap into the extreme creativity she was experiencing.
This range is available as limited edition Giclee fine art prints with two sizes per artwork.
Palm Springs. It’s been on my bucket list for longer than I can remember. A heady cocktail of stunning modernist architecture set against stark desert landscapes with punchy colour thrown in, it’s not hard to see the appeal. But, if like me, you haven’t managed to set foot on that hallowed desert soil (and you’re Slim Aarons sated) Richard Johnston’s Palm Springs photography could be just the solution.
‘S Camino Real’ print, from $99.
“I was drawn to Palm Springs as it’s often regarded as the desert playground for the rich and famous, a place where they could come to escape the hustle and bustle of showbiz. The architecture lends itself to form part of the town’s charm, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the clean lines, geometric shapes and strong contrasting colours,” says the Sydney photographer of his latest collection, a study of Palm Springs’ doors.
’88 W Regal Drive’ print, from $99
With so much visual inspiration on offer, he chose to keep things simple and focus purely on the colourful doors that pepper Palm Springs. “The bold choice of colours on the doors demanded my attention. I couldn’t drive by without photographing them as they create a type of magnetism that leaves you imagining what could be behind them. With a minimal design and desert gardens, the coloured doors added additional character to the homes and made for a bright focal point in a visually pleasing image,” says Richard, who sells his work under the brand Lonely Hunter.
‘Kings Rd W’ print, from $99
“My coloured door series from Palm Springs makes for great art in your home because the magic of the city resonates within each image. With its old Hollywood charm, mid-century architecture and palm tree-lined streets, this desert oasis is one of those places that people just seem to fall head over heels in love with (myself included) and I think it’s fair to say that seeing one of these prints hanging on the wall will have a similar effect.
‘Blue Door’ print, from $99
“These prints showcase some of the iconic destination’s character and rich cultural history while at the same time bringing a splash of colour into your home to complement your interior space.”
I for one am struggling to choose a favourite and think these prints lend themselves to most interior spaces – particularly given the framing choices that include traditional and shadow box frames in natural, black and white.
E Sierra Way’ print, from $99
When he’s not shooting the doors of Palm Springs, Richard captures the beauty of the world with a focus on the nature, travel and lifestyle realms. “People should consider photographic art for their home because although a photograph may look completely different to a painting, there is still an equal amount of thought and artistic flare that goes into helping the image convey the message the artist is trying to get across.
“The reason I enjoy the photographic medium over other forms of art is because it can be used to show how much beauty there is in the world around us. Sometimes it’s easily noticed but on other occasions it goes unseen and it’s not until we view it through someone else’s eyes that we can truly see and appreciate it.”
‘Giant Palms’ print, $99
He has plenty of practical advice for people looking to make a fine art photography purchase: “If you’re looking to buy a large print, for example let’s use the size of 120 x 80cm for $200-$300, it’s most likely that the reason it’s affordable is because it’s a mass-produced image and the materials used to put it together aren’t of a high quality.
“On the other hand, if you’re looking for a high-quality piece or a limited edition piece, the price will usually sit at the higher end of the scale. This is due to the fact that high-end materials have been used or it is an exclusive release with a limited number of copies. Fine art photography within this category will usually be accompanied by information regarding the type of paper it’s printed on and the profile of the photographer. These details will usually be listed on a plaque next to the print if you’re in a gallery or somewhere within the site if your buying online.
‘2344 Yosemite’ print, from $99
“Each photographer is different but for me, I get more personal satisfaction out of producing a high quality bespoke product over something of a lesser quality. It’s for this reason that I only shoot with top of the range professional cameras, print on photographic paper with archival qualities which will last a lifetime, hand sign all fine art prints and have each piece custom framed by hand in a local studio.”
Based in Melbourne, Maker’s Mrkt is the brainchild of New Zealand illustrator Kelly Thompson and its offering includes kitchenware, ceramics, original art, prints, fashion and accessories. If you like to shop small, Makers Mrkt is where it’s at.
Claire Ritchie’s ‘Perry’ throw, $300.
“I’ve worked as a freelance illustrator for 14 years and also a creative consultant for brands and agencies. I’m always someone who likes to shop small and local where possible and I guess I’m lucky to have a circle of friends and acquaintances in the creative industry, many selling great things which made it very easy for me to find beautiful products,” says Kelly who set up the business to make it easier for everyone to have the same access.
Gidon Bing’s faceted vase, $125.
“Last year I was looking for a few gifts online and it dawned on me that if you wanted to support local makers and shop small it would be really hard if you weren’t also a maker yourself. How do you find these people if you don’t know their individual websites or happen to stumble across them on the rare occasion that their work is in a physical store? That was the thought that sparked it. The idea was to bring all of these amazing talents onto one platform so people can shop a variety of products without trawling the internet forever!” says Kelly.
I love this Wera Jane modernist lamp, $650.
Run from Melbourne, the site features a range of products that are small run, ethically produced and often made by hand as well as a ‘Meet the Makers’ section where featured creatives reveal what drives and inspires them. “We like to educate our customers about why the products are so special, how they are made and who makes them. It’s a site that offers beautiful products with heart and we hope it will encourage people to shop from small companies who genuinely appreciate their patronage!” says Kelly.
‘Rainbow’ print by Rude, $240.
For Kelly, the appeal of the handmade lies in its individuality. “For me personally, it’s that each item is individual and special just for me. I also really appreciate the fact that someone has touched it and considered it and put the time and heart into making it, It’s the love and time behind it that I really appreciate,” says Kelly.
Ghostwares teapot, $126.
As for Kelly’s favourite makers, she’s a big fan of Wera Jane’s modernist lampshades. “They are made using discarded thread from European fashion factories – the ultimate upcycling!” says Kelly. The New Zealand ceramicist Gidon Bing is another favourite as well as Melbourne based ceramicist Ghostwares. “Ghostwares makes such perfectly formed ceramics it’s amazing that they are made by hand!”
Velvet Spectrum’s ‘Foundations of Futures Past’ photographic print, $75.
One of my favourite finds on the site is the ‘Fellows Mobiles’ who makes elegant mobiles that are just as much for adults are they are children. “Kerryn Levy is a sculptor making vases in very organic forms and we also have a range of photographers and illustrators selling prints so there are many to choose from, we love them all in different ways!”
In news that won’t surprise many of you, the latest research from ME Bank has shown that home styling is more important than personal styling when it comes to the happiness of Australians. 76 per cent of Australians said that the style of their home was important to their happiness and individuality whereas only 46 per cent said the same about their fashion choices.
Home styling enthusiast Freddy Grant’s lounge room
And while there are many reasons posited, one of the most compelling is housing affordability with 44 per cent of Australians saying that they spent more on styling their home to compensate for living in a home that is below their expectations. “That 44% of respondents said they’re focused on styling their home because they can’t afford the house of their dreams shows many Australians are willing to compromise when it comes to their property aspirations, a good strategy considering high house prices. The right styling can significantly improve how much you love your home,” says ME Bank’s money expert Matthew Read who recommends using the services of an interior designer to avoid making costly mistakes.
Affordable homewares retailers are also driving the trend with cost-conscious consumers now spoilt for choice. “It’s encouraging to see that while Australians are incredibly house proud, they’re still cost conscious when it comes to styling their homes, opting for inexpensive on-trend options that can be updated seasonally,” says Matthew. Buyer demand is certainly reflected in Kmart’s latest annual report which shows that the budget department store’s revenue has risen by 33 per cent since 2013 to $5.6 billion after introducing its now infamous homewares line.
Combining a home styling obsession with a cost-conscious approach is something that Melbourne’s Freddy Grant knows well. “I spend far more time in my home than I do in clothes. I’ve always believed in quality over quantity and don’t enjoy shopping for my wardrobe. Clothes shops are either crowded and discounted or quiet and ridiculously overpriced. Clothes are much more temporary, especially how they’re made these days, whereas when I buy for my home I’m thinking long term and like to buy second hand if possible,” says Freddy who owns his own home with his husband Burt Reynolds (yes, really!).
Freddy in his lounge room
“Your home is an extension of yourself. Finding the perfect space for something you love is a great feeling. I think it’s human instinct to collect and arrange things – most people do it in some way so I guess that’s why it gives you a rush,” says Freddy who works for online art gallery Bluethumb.
“I’ve certainly noticed a lot of my younger colleagues buying art and taking pride in their rental homes, which has surprised me as starting an art collection is traditionally enjoyed by an older demographic. I think it’s become more important to have a space you’re proud of, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune,” says Freddy.
Freddy’s home is filled with art
“I love collecting art, and working for Bluethumb means I’m tempted to spend every day, so have to control myself. The great thing about the online art revolution over the last few years is that original art has become much more affordable, so it’s not my biggest extravagance. An artwork is also for life (not just for Christmas), so makes it incredibly good value when you think about the lifespan of the purchase,” says Freddy.
Freddy’s dining room
Freddy’s home has been styled with a mix of secondhand and new finds. “Collectively I’ve spent quite a lot of money setting up the house with furniture, but most of it was second hand and bargained for,” who admits his biggest splurge was on his Samsung ‘The Frame’ television. “It’s definitely the most pretentious TV on the market, but it totally fools people into thinking it’s an artwork on the wall. I highly recommend it to anyone that’s sick of having your living room designed around the TV. Currently there’s a beautiful photo by Megan George displayed, but the great thing is you can put any artwork or photo (you own the rights to!) on there and it comes with a huge collection to choose from too,” says Freddy.
Freddy’s Samsung ‘The Frame’ television was his biggest splurge
When designing Urban Road’s Autumn/Winter 2018 collection Continuum, creative director Suzie Atkins wanted to create something akin to ‘easy listening’ artwork. “I was inspired by the mid-century modern design movement which was very soft, minimal and inoffensive,” says Suzie of the brand’s new range that boasts organic curves, simple lines and more than a nod to Abstract Expressionism. Interiors Addict readers get an exclusive first look today!
Urban Road’s ‘Discord’ print
Inspired by the work of artists Ellsworth Kelly, Victor Pasmore, Jean Arp and Laszlo Moholy-Nagy, the collection is also super versatile given its muted colour palette and focus on form, shape and texture.
Urban Road ‘Desolate’ and ‘Wildness’ prints
There’s plenty of green on display too including two fabulous photographic feather prints that are a favourite of mine – I love their bold, oversized texture.
‘Pompon’ and ‘Green Jay’ prints
“We also really dove into oil paints with this collection – we adore the texture and mood that they add to what are essentially really simple images,” says Suzey of the range that features a second drop due to arrive in a month or two. Suzey remains tight-lipped other than to say there will be some exciting new items Urban Road hasn’t offered before.
The ‘Pelican’ print
Of her favourite design from the new range, Suzie loves the pair of minimalist prints ‘Solace’ and ‘Succor.’ “They really embody the inspiration behind Continuum. I love how playful they are, without compromising elegance or softness. The shapes are interesting and overall the artworks are very versatile. I’m looking forward to seeing how these are styled in our customers’ homes,” says Suzie.
‘Solace’ and ‘Succor’ make a gorgeous pair
Another collection highlight for Suzie is a black and white photographic design called ‘Stripes’ that features a pair of graphic zebras. “The black and white photography is a really exciting new path for us, and we’re excited to see how it takes off. I feel like it taps into that edgier, more editorial market. As soon as I saw ‘Stripes’ I knew I had to have it! Again, I think it’s a striking, yet playful piece. It’s definitely a conversation starter,” says Suzie.
Urban Road’s ‘Stripes’ print
Shop the Continuum collection online and use the code INTERIORSADDICT for a 10% discount.
Yorkelee Prints’ Kate Fenning studied graphic design at the University of Canberra before embarking on a career in advertising – her second choice. “I never thought I was good enough to be a designer, so I hung around them working as studio manager, project manager, operations manager and general manager of agencies before going on maternity leave to have the boys,” says Kate referring to her two sons Yorke Levi and Morrissey Lee, the inspiration behind her affordable art print brand and its moniker.
Kate with her two sons in their lounge room
“I didn’t want to go back into the advertising industry and I met D’Arne (who is now our online manager) and we shared a passion for styling interior spaces. I started designing and creating prints to style with and had a bunch of people ask to buy them, so I started the website and it grew organically from there,” says Kate who has built a solid following on Instagram – an impressive 114,000 people to date. Peppered with funny quotes, honesty and a cohesive aesthetic, it’s easy to understand Kate’s social media success.
A gallery wall in Kate’s home
Aside from an addictive feed, the affordable aspect is no doubt a large factor in the brand’s success, with prints starting from as little as $8. “I believe everyone deserves to transform a house into a home and one of the best ways to create a stylish, warm interior for your family is using wall art. It’s exciting and easy to swap over when you get sick of it,” says Kate.
Kate’s home office
Describing her aesthetic as ‘Abstract Scandinavian,’ a strong minimalist vibe runs throughout her work – “A friend jokes that I have a ‘Coogee mum vibe’ also!” says Kate who relies on her gut to get the creative juices moving. “I love creating unique designs, so I pull a lot of inspiration from life experiences and how I feel at any given moment. I believe you know when you’re creating something special by how it feels.”
Kate’s bedroom
“I also love to collaborate with like-minded creatives, combining ideas and positive energy, and I’m always on the lookout for stylists or photographers to collaborate with,” says Kate who recently worked with Catherine Heraghty of The Stables. “I love our flower print collaboration with The Stables. Flower prints will always be super popular because they cross over so many styles and appeal to a variety of different markets.”
Yorke in his bedroom
“One of our newest typography prints, ‘I am worthy,’ is also a favourite of mine as I feel it’s probably the most important message for both kids and adults,” says Kate who derives real joy in helping people beautify their homes. “I believe getting up in the morning and being inspired by your environment plays a huge part in how we feel. It’s the same as when you throw all your clothes out and get new ones that fit, it just feels good! People like to improve, transform and create.” We couldn’t agree more!
Kate in her home office
Photography: Cass Atkinson from Plum Photography
Shop the range online and use the code interiorsaddict for a 30% discount.
Online art gallery Bluethumb is launching a fabulous Valentine’s Day initiative this year that sees one of their best-selling artists, Sally Browne, create a limited-edition print to mark the occasion. The gorgeous work is titled ‘My Aussie Valentine,’ is bargain priced at just $99 and features a bright floral explosion of Australian natives including banksia, leucadendron, gum leaves and kangaroo paw.
‘My Aussie Valentine’ print
“I’m super excited to be collaborating with Bluethumb on this special Valentine’s Day artwork. It’s a wonderful opportunity for romantic collectors to support a great cause while surprising someone special with some ‘forever flowers’ in the form of an artwork. There will only be 14 prints available of this work ever, and they have been produced exclusively for this Bluethumb campaign,” says Sally.
The artist Sally Browne with her work
“I wanted to create a piece that people would be happy to look at long after Valentine’s Day, and it’s no secret that I’m mad about Aussie flora and fauna. Rather than red roses which are traditionally associated with love, I decided to paint an energetic still life drawing featuring our weird and wonderful native flowers in romantic reds and pinks. Aussie natives are unique, beautiful, long lasting, resilient and wild, just like true love,” says Sally.
It’s a gift that keeps on giving too with Bluethumb donating 30 per cent of profits (their commission) to The Big Issue, the well-known organisation that creates work opportunities for the homeless, disadvantaged and marginalised people.
And as a bonus for our Sydney and Melbourne readers, there is guaranteed same day delivery on February 14th provided the order is placed before 10am.
I am an artist who specialises in creating large scale commission-based artworks and I absolutely love it.
It can be overwhelming knowing where to start if you would like a custom created artwork. It is a pretty easy process and the same kind of questions arise with varying clients, so here is a bit of a rundown on commissioning artwork and some steps to help you adorn your walls with a creative piece you will love!
Firstly, pick an artist you love! The artwork will be something you look at every day, so you want to find the right style for you, and your space. Look through their pieces and find two artworks to reference for different reasons. For example, you might like one for colour and one for subject matter. Be thorough in your research here, look through their website and socials to get a broad view of their work.
Artist Libby Watkins
Secondly, size matters! You will need to be really specific on the finished size. Look at where you might want to hang your artwork. Create a mock artwork by taping the pages of a newspaper together to make a large piece. Always start large and slowly reduce the size until you are happy with it. Leave it on the wall for a day or two, reducing or adding to size until you are satisfied. This is the exact measurement you can now give the artist for a framed or unframed piece.
Now it’s time to engage your artist! The fun begins. Contact them and request a custom piece. Tell them why you have chosen them as the artist as this allows them to understand what kind of piece you aspire to own. You don’t want to give too much detail or direction at this point, as you want their creativity to flow naturally. Remember, you have chosen this artist for a reason — you already love their work and in that must be trust. Give them your two reference pieces and why you chose them. You can tell them the exact size. They will love that you have done your homework as this helps them; in most cases the artists can’t visit your space and a photograph can only provide a limited perspective.
You can touch on any specifics now, but remember keep it brief as to not cram their artistic thought pattern.
You will now want to ask them how they work. Do they sketch up for you? Or will they commence work and come back to you later to show progress of the piece? Make sure you are comfortable with the way in which they create your piece. Do you want more or less collaboration? If you see a problem now, speak up.
Time is money. Confirm the timeframe. When will you see a progress photo? (if applicable, refer to above paragraph). Or when will the piece be completed and delivered (I have been known to create mermaid tails in under a week, sometimes, even months at other times.)? You want to ensure this timeframe suits you, but you also need to be mindful not to rush the artist as it’s a creative process for them. They may do two or three versions before showing you a progress photo. They want to get it right! Be generous in your expectation as they may have a heavy workload at the time or varying intricacies in the piece you are requesting. Or neither of these, and they will knock it over in 24 hours! You may be given a range for example of two-to-four weeks from start to completion of the artwork. Rarely will you be given an exact date unless it’s a special request.
Enjoy the journey of creating your commission artwork. You want something at the end of it that you can stand in front of and feel what you set out to feel. You want to look at it and be proud to know you had creative input, or at least a vision, for the piece, and it’s now hanging in your home or workplace for all to admire.
–Australian artist and designer, Libby Watkins creates large scale artworks from her dreamy island home ‘Paradiso’ on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. A small limited edition collection is also released every few weeks online and in selected boutiques.
I was recently lucky enough to be sent a framed canvas from The Print Emporium and it was so beautiful I just had to find out more about the brand, launched in July, and the woman behind it, Zoe Bristow. As you may have noticed, I have developed a real penchant for floral and botanical art recently so it will come as no surprise that I love what she’s producing! And everyone who saw the recent photos of my kitchen/dining reno seems to want to know where that art is from!
My Print Emporium framed canvas in my dining room | Photo by Jacqui Turk
With a background studying Textile Design at RMIT in Melbourne, Zoe specialised in screen-printing and on graduating, got into the fashion industry and moved to London, and then Sydney, to work. But a few years ago, she got into homewares when working as a buyer for a design website. Last year, she returned to her hometown of Melbourne and decided to start her business, The Print Emporium.
She’d been conceptualising the business for a few years beforehand. “I had been wanting to take the leap and launch an artwork brand for a couple of years, as I really felt it pulled together my love of prints and patterns, textile designs, but also home decor and trend forecasting.”
Rare these days, her range is proudly designed and made in Australia, and Zoe works with freelance artists to create paintings based on her design concepts. “I then sell them as high quality re-printed artworks that do not have the price tag of a true original. The unique thing I guess, is you have to really look up close to realise they are not the original hand painting, as the detail is quite amazing. Artwork is such a personal thing, but I like to think that my range is very fresh and eye-catching, unique, and also in keeping with interior design trends. I like the idea of helping customers create a lovely and inspiring space in their home or office, easily, with a piece from the range.”
Large pieces of art often come with a hefty price tag, sometimes meaning people have to buy something too small for their wall because of budget. “We have up to six sizes available in the stretched canvas medium for example, with the largest being over 1.6metres tall! And all for a price that is far less than an original of course. Being that the range has been painted originally, this makes for a point of difference in the market, where you are receiving something unique and a little bit special, but without the high price tag.”
Zoe launched at Decor & Design in Melbourne in July and had instantly great feedback. “We picked up many interior decorators as clients. We regularly work with architecture firms and interior stylists and designers to find a piece for their clients, whether they be corporate fit-outs, private houses or hotels. And then we also sell to the general public through the website. We have had many repeat customers who after buying their first piece, return to purchase more for other rooms in the house. It’s lovely to see.”
To decide what to include in the first collection, Zoe had to trust her gut instinct as there was no sales history to go on. “I went with what I would like to buy myself, and also asked many friends and family. So far the reaction has been amazing, which still makes me pinch myself regularly.”
She is very proud to be manufacturing in Australia and loves the idea of managing the process end-to-end. She also believes that, with so many size and frame combinations, to have a quality made-to-order product works best, giving customers more choice. And of course lead times are shorter too.
“Starting my own business has been both challenging and exciting! Being only a few months old, making sure smooth systems were in place upon launch has been crucial. I over-planned I think, before I launched, but it’s paid off to have done so. I was very fortunate to be picked up by some of Australia’s leading retailers within the first weeks of launch, and since launching in July I have done three more trade events, and even recently hired an assistant!
“The biggest highlights have been the positive feedback and how many ‘wows’ I hear when customers see the artwork with their own eyes. I also did a design event recently where several people walked up to me and said they loved the range and had been following me on social media or had already ordered. This gives me a buzz every time. Also receiving orders from the far reaches of the globe too is pretty exciting. I’m run off my feet daily, but I love it!”
Zoe’s advice for choosing art:
Decide first if you want a piece that ‘pops’ or something that is more subtle and subdued.
Next, decide on the artwork medium (as we offer stretched canvases along with framed giclee art prints) that would work best, and next select the frame colour (we sell raw oak, white or black options) as this should tie back in with key pieces and colours in the room.
In terms of the artwork pattern or design, it’s a matter of going with what excites you and speaks to you and works with other decor pieces already in the space or what you want the ‘theme’ to be in the room if starting from scratch. To make things easier, we have interior images on our website, along with every design shown in every frame colour, just to help make this process easier for the customer.
Another little tip when choosing size, if you are not 100% sure, measure it on newspaper or similar and stick this paper shadow up on the wall to visualise the artwork to scale, before you buy. If customers are ever unsure I often tell them to email through a picture of the room they want it for, as I am more than happy to offer my suggestions.
One of the best things about writing for Interiors Addict is being able to learn about amazingly creative people. From artists to designers and everything in between, these individuals have a lot of insights, ideas and inspiration to share. Below are some of our favourite interviews, so get ready to bookmark!
Therese Moussa, The Grounds’ head stylist: Immaculately detailed, the gorgeous Grounds eateries make you feel like you’ve entered an enchanting wonderland, far, far away from Sydney. We spoke to the head stylist, Therese Moussa, about just how much work goes into transforming these bespoke spaces.
The Grounds
Sarah Ellison, stylist and furniture designer: For eight years, Sarah Ellison was the design savvy-mind behind Real Living magazine, but now she has gone solo… creating her own interiors brand. With a style that is modern and relaxed, Sarah gave us the lowdown on her new furniture and homewares.
Sarah
Lucky Price, The Block’s casting director: A self-confessed ‘old hag’ when it comes to The Block, Lucky Price has been working as a casting director on the hit reality show since 2010. So if you fancy being on our TV screens, it comes as no surprise that Lucky is the man with the tips!
Lucky
Jemma Bell, Canvas+Sasson’s resident designer: Canvas+Sasson began as a lot of small businesses do, from home, with the juggle of kids, family and boxes and boxes of cushions. Ten years on, one of the designers behind Canvas+Sasson spilled the secrets, on how the label has flourished over time.
Canvas+Sasson
Tracie Ellis, AURA Home’s founder: We’ve long loved AURA Home so we thought it was about time we learnt about the woman behind the brand, Tracie Ellis. With a background in fashion and design, in 2000 she created her own line. And as they say, the rest is history!
Tracie
Carla Coulson, photographer: While it was Carla Coulson’s stunning art prints which first caught our attention, it was her back story we knew we had to share. At 35, Carla took a plunge, moving to Italy to study photography. If you want to take a leap of faith – but need a little push – this is a must read!
Carla
Cleo Ganis, Leaf & Co’s co-founder: A family affair, Leaf & Co is run by a mother and her two daughters. Working primarily with ceramics, the pieces are handmade using Australian sourced clay, natural minerals and oxides. If you need to do some Christmas shopping, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Cleo and her family
Natalee Bowen, Indah Island’s founder: Jen’s been Hamptons obsessed since she visited earlier this year, but turns out, she may not have had to travel half way around the world… with interior designer Natalee Bowen beautifully portraying Hamptons decor right here in Australia. The photos are a must see!
Indah Island designed home
Christopher Broome, artist: It’s always exciting to discover an artist at the beginning of their career, and Christopher Broome has a particularly interesting story; giving up his job as an electrician to follow his passion: art. This interview will give you all the good feels.
Christopher
Catherine Heraghty, The Stables’ founder: No doubt many of you are familiar with the modern, coastal aesthetic of interior styling company The Stables… they’re well-loved on Instagram that’s for sure! We find out more about the lady behind the feed; plus her story provides plenty of inspiration for any budding designers.
With a background in fashion and textiles, it was only when Freya Powell signed up for a painting course, with the intention of improving her print-making skills, that she realised she wanted to take it further.
“I’d never thought about painting until a couple of years ago; I’d do a bit of drawing to create a print, but always preferred being hands on with fabric. But when I started painting I fell in love with the immediacy and the challenge of it. It also makes you notice so much detail in your subject, things that you would never have seen if you hadn’t been staring at it for hours!”
Leaving the world of fashion, she began painting full-time. Having grown up in country England, Freya was drawn to the blooming cottage garden, secret dells and wide open skies; so naturally flowers became her muses. “It’s a bit of a cliché but there really is so much beauty in flowers,” says Freya. “When you study them up close you realise how much detail there is and such complexity to the structures. Also, if you’re a flower lover then having a painting of them is a way to make them last forever in your own home.”
With a realistic style, Freya keeps the backgrounds of her paintings bare, putting the sole emphasis on the flowers themselves. Her artistic practice begins with the search for fresh blooms, which she photographs before putting paint to canvas. “Depending on the type of flower it’s good to focus on certain things. For example, when I’ve painted really blooming flowers like peonies or David Austin Roses I’ve just painted the blooms themselves because they’re so amazing, but if there’s a really graceful movement to the stems like with poppies and irises then I try to incorporate that.”
A lover of nature, Freya now calls Sydney’s east home – swapping countryside walks for beach walks – spending her time working on commissions: “It’s lovely to know that a client will have a piece of your work as a part of their life.” Freya also hopes to work on a more personal project: “I’d like to try and fit in a bit of time for some experimenting with a couple of ideas. I really don’t think I could ever get bored with flowers, but that’s not to say I’d never do something different!”
Small-space decorating doesn’t have to be hard! Australian illustrator Kerrie Hess shares her secrets on styling the cosiest of spaces to make your home the most inviting one yet! Say hello to a newly refreshed abode and goodbye to cramped and uncomfortable with her simple styling tips!
Create height
A great way to add instant style and space is with a wall gallery.A definite statement piece, a wall gallery draws the eye upwards and will give the illusion that your ceiling is higher than it really is. When styling your wall gallery make sure you plan it out, especially if you are hanging art in a smaller space. I always find laying the framed artwork on the floor and moving the art around until I’m happy with it is the best place to begin. During this process you will be able to see what art complements each other and place them accordingly. When spacing the artwork on a smaller surface area make sure to keep white space between the frames. This will make the artwork appear larger than it is. If your frames are very light and you forgo glass, you can use picture hanging adhesives to secure the frames. When choosing a colour scheme, stick to light or neutral colours that connect to the rest of the room. Hues of pink are great for adding a feminine touch!
Think multi-purpose
When decorating a smaller space think of the items purpose. If I can think of two multipurpose reasons for an item of furniture I will buy it. Ask yourself questions like, what functions does this item have? Can I store items in it? Can I move it to different areas of the house if need be? An ottoman is a great example, use it as a coffee table or extra seating in the living room all at once!
Forgo the coffee table
Cumbersome furniture such as coffee tables chew up space. Instead opt for stumps, ottomans, or side tables as a substitute for larger items. Not only will this make the room feel less confined and poky, but it will stop you from hoarding unnecessary items in the living room. If losing the coffee table is out of the question, choose a design with a glass top. This will let natural light bounce off the surface and will fool the eye into thinking there is more space than there actually is.
Keep colour palette neutral
When decorating keep your accessories in a colour palette that is light and neutral. This will dramatically expand your space. Think pastels, beiges, stones and light greys. To add impact, get creative and mix up fabrics and textures on rugs, cushions and seats. This subtle detailing will add interest and ensure all the colours don’t blend into one.
Choose one large statement piece
Believe it or not placing one large item of furniture into a room can often make it appear bigger than it is. More often than not cramming lots of little items into a room can make it feel crowded. So instead of creating lots of separate nooks with several pieces of small-scale furniture, try filling a large portion of the room with one item. For example fill 80 percent of the living room with an oversized sectional lounge. Add a small side table and you have a warm and inviting space. Opting for a sectional lounge will allow you to change up the space as you please.
Kerrie’s illustrations have featured in Vogue, Tatler and Harper’s Bazaar. She has illustrated countless fashion windows, billboards, book covers, silk scarves, cushions and packaging around the globe. She is also the author and illustrator of style book Shoestring Chic. Kerrie has lived in London, Hong Kong and Paris and is now based in Brisbane.
