Award-winning photographer Yasmin Mund has released Concrete Jungle, a retrospective of one of Sydney’s ugliest buildings, Glenview Court. She has explored and documented life in the iconic Tamarama apartment block where she herself resided for three years prior to its closure for a multimillion dollar redevelopment.
Glenview Court, Tamarama, was known for its stunning views from inside, and ugly facade
A building often loathed from the outside but adored from within, anyone who hadn’t lived in the building perhaps couldn’t understand its appeal. Outside was one of Sydney’s most beautiful beaches, and inside was a diverse and convivial community of retirees, backpackers, creatives, and even squatters. The juxtaposition of living in such a derelict building in one of Sydney’s most glamorous and expensive suburbs provided a truly unique experience.
That view
A brutalist white concrete block perched on a clifftop overlooking Tamarama Beach, it has been nicknamed The Beast, the Tamarama Toaster, the Soviet Hospital, and the Housing Commission. Originally designed by Australia’s most celebrated architect, Harry Seidler, it was modified and corners were cut by the notorious Rene Rivkin’s developer father, Walter Rivkin. Over ensuing years, the 78 apartments rapidly descended into dilapidation and disrepair. It hit major trouble 10 years ago when it was served with numerous fire orders and was discovered to be riddled with concrete cancer.
Photographer Yasmin Mund
As a documentary photographer residing in the building, Yasmin knew she had to try and capture what it was like to live there. “I was able to approach the project with a more intimate and integrated ‘this is my home too’ attitude, embracing a genuine curiosity and empathy for how my neighbours were living, and why they had also chosen this place as their home.”
Her photographic study looks across 15 apartments and their residents, bringing to light what living in Glenview Court was like for the first and last time. Subjects include Archibald Prize-winning artist Craig Ruddy, TV Director Adam Kiers, Karen Halabi, a freelance journalist and editor, as well as many other creatives.
Craig Ruddy & Roberto
“With all the new development in the world, especially in cities like Sydney, there seems to be at times a lack of reflection on the history of old buildings before they are leveled or redeveloped,” Yasmin continues. “I wanted to document not just this building, but the people who bring the building to life.”
The now newly renamed Sky Tamarama is also making history as the largest redevelopment project on Sydney’s eastern seaboard. The way the development was maneuvered through the application process and funded is innovative and pioneering. It saw the body corporate taking out Australia’s biggest strata loan – originally $9 million – to fund the upgrade. Its unique model has since been replicated by other strata developments and has created a template for hundreds of similarly decrepit apartment blocks around the city.
“This story of gentrification is universal,” says Yasmin. “This project is a time stamp of the past, which captures the residents before the upgrade, and before the building becomes shiny and new again. This is why the project is so valuable and universal, because our homes, or lack thereof, represent a huge part of our human existence.”
There’s an exhibition, with a limited number of prints available to buy, at Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club until this Sunday 18 April 2021. For more information.
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Travel and lifestyle photographer Christie Moore, has launched a new print collection after returning from living overseas. The photographic prints came to life quite organically after returning to Sydney from Paris.
Christie spent blissful sun-kissed afternoons strolling along the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk where she began seeing her hometown coastline through a whole new lens. “I experienced a new-found connection to my city and wanted to represent the connection of people to places in a tangible way,” she says.
“What sets this collection apart is that it was curated with fellow travellers and adventure seekers in mind. Focusing on storytelling, connection and adventure, each piece is a tangible dose of ‘vitamin sea’ and encapsulates the Sydney lifestyle loved by locals, expats and tourists alike. A limited edition momento for those who want their spaces to tell their story.”
Christie grew up in Forster on the NSW mid-north coast and moved to Sydney in her teenage years, always maintaining a strong connection to the sea.
Available in four sizes, Christie’s works are printed with archival inks on 310gsm matt rag paper stock with a white border. The limited editions are hand signed and numbered with free shipping Australia wide. Prices start at $139.
Greenhouse Interiors: inspiring & empowering people to buy art online
Buying art, and then knowing where and now to hang it, can be anxiety-inducing for many. But at the same time, we’re all excited to add some colour and beauty…
Prominent Australian city guide Broadsheet is known for the sharp and stylish photography it uses to illustrate its stories and now, thanks to the launch of Broadsheet Editions, you can hang some of it on the wall at home.
“Broadsheet Editions is a true collaboration with the photographers we’ve worked with over the past 10 years,” says Nick Shelton, publisher and founder of Broadsheet Media, of the launch of the affordable online photographic gallery.
Mark Roper’s ‘Tuckshop’ print
An evolving collection, the first 100 images come from 11 talented Australian photographers who have shot for Broadsheet over the past decade. The initial line-up includes Linsey Rendell, Gareth Sobey, Kate Shanasy, Michael Woods, Jessica Wyld, Peter Tarasiuk, Rebecca Mansell, Jake Roden, Nikki To, Pete Dillon and Mark Roper.
And as you would expect, the subject matter includes food and drink, art and design, entertainment, fashion and style and travel. “Broadsheet Editions is another way we can engage with our readers and enrich their lives in a tangible way – by allowing them to take a piece of their city home in the form of beautiful photography,” says Nick.
One of the more notable prints, ‘It’s a Yes,’ was created by Michael Woods who took it just moments after the Australian Bureau of Statistic announced the results of the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey in November 2017. “I wasn’t sure if I’d be capturing a sad, sombre moment in Australia’s history, or if it would be a glorious milestone as Australia launches itself into the modern era. The State Library of Victoria erupted into a music festival filled with laughter and tears as rainbows roared above,” says Michael.
Michael Woods’ joyous ‘It’s a Yes’ print
Mark Roper’s ‘Flinders Lane’ print captures the iconic Melbourne restaurant Supernormal while his ‘Tuckshop’ print, taken in a suburban Melbourne tuck shop complete with an old radio, sparks memories of the past.
Mark Roper’s ‘Flinder’s Lane’ print
The photographs are printed onto 300gsm 100 per cent cotton rag stock, which is dry-mounted to an acid-free foam board before being framed using local sustainable Australian hardwood in a black, white or raw timber finish. Each print is protected by museum-grade plexiglass that shields against UV damage for up to 100 years before being sealed using framer’s wax tape and wired for easy mounting in your home or workplace.
Kate Shanasy’s ‘Rockpools at Monterosso #2’ print is one of the overseas shots featured in the collection
Each print is available in five sizes, is made to order and can be delivered Australia-wide in under two weeks. Prices range from an affordable $240 through to $2400.
“I would describe my work as contemporary, soulful character portraits of horses. These portraits are captured with such high definition you can experience every hair, almost feel the velvety texture of the nose, and feel the personality in the eyes of every horse,” says Canberra photographic artist Grace Costa who is uniquely poised to capture the majestic creatures given she has spent her life surrounded by them.
Whether riding them to muster cattle, competing with them in local competitions or teaching horse riding at her father’s horse-riding school, Grace knows horses. So, when she decided to leave her government photographic job recently, the time was right to combine her two passions.
“I was based at the Royal Military College Duntroon in an all-male team for 12 years as a public affairs photographer. I had the opportunity to see and do amazing things in that role,” says Grace of her job working for the Department of Defence – a position that saw her photograph the Queen amongst many other subjects.
“After I had achieved all I wanted to in that role, I made the move last November to go full-time in my photography business where I continue to work as a commercial photographer as well as teaching masterclasses and doing speaking engagements,” says Grace. The career change has also given Grace the time to build her career as a photographic artist, with a particular equine focus.
“Horses are very challenging to photograph, yet predictable at the same time when you understand how they move. Understanding and mastering the art of the horse’s body language is something that compels me to keep working with them,” says Grace who learnt many horse handling skills from her father, a master horseman who has worked with the animals for over 50 years.
And Grace’s decision to photograph the creatures in an industrial setting (as opposed to the wild) is a deliberate one. “I’m not interested in photographing them running in the paddock, like we are used to seeing in equine pictures. I want to capture them like a statue, to focus on their form, character and presence,” says Grace who is always on the lookout for an unusual horse to add to her collection.
And while photographing a horse in this way is as arduous as you can imagine, it’s something that Grace admits she can’t get enough of. “I think I’m addicted to the magic that happens when all things align; the pose, the eye contact, the composition, the lighting, and the expression. It takes so much patience but it’s worth it,” says Grace whose latest collection ‘Spotted’ is centred around the idea that being rare and different is beautiful. In the series, Grace has documented the Appaloosa horse which is known for its unique spots and colours.
“These horses have very strong characters and surprise many people because often they have never seen a horse like them before. They make perfect art for a young child’s bedroom,” says Grace who is also working on another collection called ‘Blooming’ which sees a variety of horses wearing custom floral headdresses with fantastical results.
From choosing the right style of flowers to making sure the headpiece fits on the horse’s head and the bridle, the process is tricky. “You then have to ensure the flowers don’t fall off when the horse shakes his head from the flies! I think the entire team holds their breath until the shoot is over. It’s a bit of a nightmare but the results are worth it, and we love creating them.”
If you’re lucky enough to have been to Italy’s Amalfi Coast you’ll know it has no shortage of photogenic vistas which is no doubt why The Print Emporium’s founder and creative director Zoe Bristow chose to capture it for her latest collection. Photographed on the Amalfi and the nearby island of Capri, Zoe had quite the adventure shooting the location’s iconic blue and white umbrellas, rocky outcrops and classic coastal Italian scenes for the print series that is priced from a very affordable $29.
Amalfi Summer print
“I had to bluff my way in as I didn’t realise we were supposed to have booked a month prior!” says Zoe of the process by which she captured La Fontelina Beach Club series – her favourite images from the new range. “The staff were amazing and let us spend the day there snapping photos, swimming and hiking up and down the hundreds of cliff steps,” says Zoe who also perched precariously over the cliff to capture the scene from an aerial perspective.
A print from La Fontelina Beach Club series, captured from on high
Another highlight of the range is the One Fire Club series – notable for the mass of orange umbrellas that characterise the photographs. “I hired a private boat and driver for half a day to take me along the Amalfi coastline and I jumped off bare-foot with my camera and took in the scene from all angles possible as it was so striking!” says Zoe.
One Fire Club print
The Sorrento Bathers series was captured in another private hotel after some further smooth talking by Zoe while her partner waited in a car in the no-standing zone outside. “Let’s just say I went to great lengths to get many of the shots in the Amalfi series this season!” says Zoe.
Sorrento Bathers print
Monterosso print
Another part of the collection was photographed in the adjacent island of Capri, the Capri Boat image a particularly beautiful one. “I spotted this old vessel tied up and floating on the most beautiful blue green water I had ever seen, looking almost as if it was flying,” says Zoe of the alluring scene. If the image doesn’t make you want to book an Italy trip pronto I don’t know what would!
Capri Boat print
Italy wanderings aside, it’s been a very busy time for Zoe of late given she had a stand at the recent Décor + Design show and the Reed Gift Fair in Melbourne. “It was a little crazier than normal in terms of the prep time as I had literally just hopped back off the plane from Italy two weeks before, so I was busy prepping my images for production, painting walls until the wee hours, and then we were away with the shows,” says Zoe who showed the Amalfi photographs alongside the rest of her new range that features diverse imagery including washed out Australian coastal prints, dried palms and pampas grass, a Moroccan desert scene, Greek coastal theme, painted abstracts and a Parisian theme too.
Pink Umbrella print
And with no plans to slow down anytime soon Zoe will be running a pop-up shop in Melbourne from October until the end of December. “It will be in buzzing Lygon Street in Carlton so for any readers that are in Melbourne, I’d love you to pop in and see some pieces from the range!”
Capri Rocks print
READER DISCOUNT
Our readers can get 10% off their order for the month of September using the code INTERIORSADDICT10 at checkout.
Established in Sydney in 2013, blinq.art sells some of the world’s finest photographic art prints and after more than five years at Westfield Bondi Junction, the business has relocated its gallery to Paddington in an effort to better serve its customers. The business also has a busy online store that serves a dedicated fanbase across the globe.
blinq.art’s Paddington gallery
“Collecting art photography ought to be enjoyable, affordable and accessible. Whether in-store or online, we aim to provide a rich and cultural experience so that our customers can make an emotional connection with that special piece. In a way, we view ourselves as matchmakers for artworks and art appreciators,” says blinq.art director Laurent Rabot.
blinq.art challenges the traditional ways of art photography acquisition by curating an extensive and eclectic catalogue and making it available to the public at reasonable prices. Each artwork is printed on high-quality, archival grade photographic paper and custom-framed in Sydney. A choice of six signature frame finishes and up to seven sizes are available – all of which can be selected at the time of purchase.
California by Ludwig Favre available at Blinq.art
“We work with some of the most talented artists in the world and we take pride in producing superb quality prints,” says Laurent who works with more than 80 talents representing all walks of life. An artistic panel handpicks each photograph and ensures that the selection remains versatile and balanced.
The Long Horned Cow by Ian Thornberry available at Blinq.art
Online, blinq.art’s website is a great way of browsing through the entire collection. A live chat with an experienced gallerist is available also which significantly enhances the experience.
“Our fine art prints are the perfect addition to any private residence, luxurious office or cutting-edge hotel. They look elegant and trendy, and they can bring the finishing touch to any interior,” says Laurent.
Cuba III by Hélène Havard available at Blinq.art
Laurent’s top tips for choosing photographic art:
Consider forgoing the conveyor belt of cheaply-made wares and instead, opt for a couple of more timeless pieces to invest in – ones that really resonate with you and the character of your home.
Don’t follow trends. Get personal. Look for a piece that says something about you and it will outlast wavering fashions.
Choose a piece that suits the space you will hang it in. For example, if you have a large white wall, don’t hang a tiny little artwork as it will disappear in the background and seem out of place.
Interiors Addict readers are invited to visit the new gallery at 84 Oxford Street, Paddington NSW and to help celebrate the opening, blinq.art is offering a complimentary classic size artwork (valued at $118) with every purchased above $200. Just mention the promo code ‘arttoheart’. If you shop online, just call blinq.art with your reference number and preferred artwork and the complimentary classic size artwork will be added to your order.
“Styling for photography is very different to general styling. What we see with the naked eye sometimes doesn’t translate to the image. As professionals we always work with our camera attached to our laptop and scrutinise each picture until we are happy with the result,” says stylist Penny Hyams of The Studio Melbourne.
Photographer Sandy Rogulic and stylist Penny Hyams of The Studio Melbourne
Located in the Melbourne suburb of Moorabbin, Penny runs her gorgeous warehouse studio alongside her best friend, photographer Sandy Rogulic where they create imagery for many brands and run an event space too.
“It was after we submitted a project to Home Beautiful magazine that we realised there were so many people looking for beautiful and affordable imagery for social media and more general online use,” says Sandy. And with years of precious experience in the trade, today the ladies share their top ten tips for product styling and shooting like a professional.
One of Penny and Sandy’s recent shoots
1. Over styling If there’s too much going on in the scene, nothing feels balanced. It’s what you take out of the image, not what you put in that makes the biggest difference.
2. Scale Getting the scale right in the scene is crucial. Too many same size items grouped together looks boring. Mix up the size, shape and texture. Take your picture and really examine it until you’re happy with the composition.
3. Natural light This is our favourite! Chase the light around your house and learn where the best light is and what time of day is the nicest time to shoot.
4. Breathing space Leave space between the items you are shooting. Sometimes what looks separate to the naked eye looks attached in a photo. For example, you should leave some space between your bed and bedside table or it can look like they are joined.
5. Human elements Include a human element in the image. For example a pair of glasses resting on a book or a hand on a glass will give the image some life and interest.
A human element can elevate the shot
6. Background Be aware of background. Try not to have an overly busy background as it is very distracting.
7. Be prepared! Have a few different props on hand in case what you had planned just doesn’t work.
8. Mix it up Try and mix up your selection of props. Sometimes adding an aged piece with the perfect patina into a scene is exactly what’s needed to elevate the image to something great.
9. Don’t copy other people’s work! Sure, you can be inspired by a style you like but always inject your own personality into the pic. The more you play with this the better you become and the clearer it is what makes the magic happen.
10. Have fun and keep your ego in check! When we work with other businesses and creatives, everyone has something valid to contribute. Sometimes it’s that one little thing that seems so insignificant that creates the hero shot. In our experience it’s usually the simple act of taking one thing out of the shot!
The Studio Melbourne style and shoot everything from cushions to fashion for small to large businesses from their Moorabbin warehouse. They also run styling for photography classes a few times a year.
Later this month, I’m hosting an exclusive meet and greet at AGHA Sydney Gift Fair where I’ll be sharing tips on how to get your products into the media, on blogs, and how to use your own social media channels to effectively promote your brand.
As a journalist of more than 15 years, I deal with PR people all the time, and more recently as a professional blogger, people are constantly trying to persuade me to share their brand, paid or otherwise (in fact, much more often for free). So I know a thing or two about how to get noticed.
Madras Link: Professionally styled and photographed
Here, I’m sharing some of my best tips! And don’t forget I’ll be on hand at AGHA Sydney Gift Fair on 23 February if you have an important question about your business you’d like to ask in person.
Invest in styling and photography
Often I have to say a polite no to people featuring on the blog because their photography isn’t up to scratch. Even if you’ve really put the effort into styling and photographing your products yourself, with half decent light and a good camera, I hate to break it to you (and I really do, because I hate saying no!) it’s usually obvious it wasn’t a professional job. Not only does it not show your product in the best light, it can also make it look like you’re too small to get a photographer. This may not cost as much as you think at all. A few hundred bucks is money extremely well spent on a photographer in my opinion. While hiring a stylist too may seem overkill (or too expensive), it is always great to see products in a lifestyle situation, i.e. in a room, not just on a white background (although that’s useful too). Approach local design schools or reach out to people whose style you like on Instagram. Those starting out may not charge a hefty fee, but equally, please don’t ask creatives to work for free!
Once you’ve paid for your beautiful new photographs, get your money’s worth and use them on your website, socials and anywhere you can think of, as well as sending them to media. More on that later…
Establish relationships with influencers
Influencer is a fancy word for people like me; bloggers and personalities online with large followings, who people trust and take advice and/or recommendations from. They do not have to be huge, Kim Kardashian-like celebs to be able to have a real impact on your brand by highlighting it to their followers. Even though you may need to pay these people and enter a business relationship with them, it’s always best if this starts from an authentic place, where you have reached out and had a chat with them online, sent them a DM or commented on their posts. Some influencers are open to gifting, where you send them product for free and they agree to post about it in return. Others have a set rate they charge for product shout outs. Some, like me, do both. Try requesting their media kit via the contact page on their website, or direct messaging them via Instagram.
Don’t forget traditional media
You may think you’re too small or new to be featured in traditional media like magazines, but don’t talk yourself out of PR opportunities. Just make sure you do your homework first. Look at the magazine you want to be featured in and think about where your product might fit. No, you may not get a double-page-spread but could you offer them a prize for a competition, be featured in a new product roundup, or talk about how you started your brand in a business feature? Think outside the box! As a former magazine editor, I can tell you there’s nothing better than a pitch where someone has done their homework and makes it easy to say yes to them! For example: “I have the perfect product for your regular XYZ feature. Can I send you samples? Take a look and download our professional lifestyle images at XYZ. Have a look at my attached catalogue and let me know what works best for you. Contact me any time if you need anything else at all.”
CASE STUDIES: THREE AGHA EXHIBITORS GETTING IT RIGHT!
1. Rayell (Stand 3K12).
Rayell’s Kevin Porter says: “We use social media to try and show our products in a real life setting and feature all of the gorgeous details of the products. Part of the barrier of being online is that customers can’t feel, touch or examine the products up close. We try to help our customers imagine the products in their business or even imagine the end use of how their own customers will use the products.”
Rayell
What they’ve learned about digital:
Regramming tagged photos and sharing and supporting other businesses always pays off! It is great to see how other people style your products and what they are pairing them with.
Enewsletters are a must! They are the perfect way to alert customers to new products and direct them to content they might benefit from.
Strong branding is important! Keep consistent with your visuals and branding so your business is instantly recognisable and memorable.
2. Melko (Stand 4N9)
“We love to connect with our customers and show our appreciation by featuring their photos on our daily Instagram stories,” says managing director Guido Melo. “We’ve learnt that people are always looking for something new, and by using social media we are always able to reach new audiences. Our content across all platforms also needs to be high quality and engaging.
“Customers love to share their thoughts and opinions so if we can get them involved as much as possible, it creates a budding relationship between customer and business which in return, we believe, increases the likelihood of returning customers and also new customers through tagging, sharing or telling their friends about us.”
He adds: “Another key lesson is that video and photography is incredibly important in retail business. Coming up with creative concepts is important to stay relevant, and producing high quality images will not only intrigue the customer to view or buy the product but people in general love to follow a great looking feed. We find value in investing money into photoshoots because creating a great catalogue of images can easily increase revenue.”
Their top photography tips
You don’t need to go too over the top with your images, being minimalistic and clean is the best way as it is also easier on the eyes.
Filters or presets can definitely make or break a photo–make sure you choose one that is consistent to your brand and feed, and doesn’t take away from the product that you’re trying to sell.
Lighting is everything! Find your light and the photo becomes instantly beautiful. Play around with natural light (avoid super sunny days), and use a reflector when necessary.
Lastly, make sure you don’t overwhelm your customers with your products. A breakdown of other images/videos/messages that still keep with your brand and that you think your customers will love, will create a positive experience.
3. Madras Link (Stand DN5)
The brand uses social media and professional photography to showcase their range of cushions, furniture and home accessories.
Ashini Grey says: “The key lessons we have learnt over the years are to ensure you’re sticking to a regular schedule (neglected accounts are not inspiring); it’s important that every post communicates something of value, and every post is an opportunity to reach your current and new customers.”
They use a professional photographer because image quality is high priority when sharing images to social media or in a catalogue or magazine. “Blurry images and poor arrangements of products could result in a missed opportunity to convey your brand’s story,” Ashini adds. “Our top tips are to use a professional photographer, put a lot of work into your styling to ensure the products complement each other whilst maintaining your brand’s point of difference and, lastly, pay attention to detail. When you’ve spent so much time lovingly designing your collection, it’s essential that clear photos convey the details such as colour, texture and design.”
After a recent voyage to IKEA, I arrived home with big plans to create a DIY gallery wall only to realise that the frames I had purchased were literally all wrong! The sizes were slightly too big or small. The colours of the frames didn’t quite work with the artworks. My skills at cutting the mat boards were naught (FYI: they’re crooked and it’s driving me insane). In short, it was a very frustrating and time-consuming Pinterest-inspired disaster!
My failed gallery wall ordeal got me thinking – is it worth spending the money getting artwork and photographs professionally framed?
To fill me in on all the pro’s of going professional, I chatted with our friends at Format Framing who explained that not only does it eliminate the hassle of playing “picture frame Tetris”, but professional framing services can also ensure that you select the right frame for your artwork, print or photograph.
Image: Amelia Stanwix
Do it once, do it right
There is quite a lot to consider when looking at framing options – white frame, black frame, gloss finish or an inner frame – so it helps to speak to a professional who can guide you through the process. A professional framer can explain mystifying things like the differences between paper options and the benefits of mounting methods for your specific medium. With custom frame options you also won’t be forced to squeeze (or worse, cut) your art into the only frame sizes available instore.
Image: Amelia Stanwix
Protect your artwork
Good frames not only keep your art from deteriorating and losing its value, but they will also ensure the works are well presented. If prints aren’t mounted correctly they can easily move around inside the frame. Not only is this highly irritating for those of us who rail against crooked or uneven wall art, but dust can easily become trapped inside the frame which can wreak havoc on the quality of the print.
Image: Amelia Stanwix
A store-bought frame is often made of plastic or resin and may not be UV-resistant (note: Ultra Violet light is an “art killer”). This means that over time the artwork may fade, turn yellow and be damaged by the harsh Australian light. Companies like Format Framing use high quality, acid-free materials that will protect your art and keep it in pristine condition for years to come.
Format Framing offer gallery quality, archival, giclee printing and custom framing, handmade in their Melbourne workshop and delivered Australia-wide in two weeks.
They work with artists represented by some of Australia’s best commercial galleries as well as providing framing for the National Gallery of Victoria and the National Gallery of Australia.
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.”
Extra large artworks are an effortless way to create an atmosphere of understated luxury in your home.
Assuming that you can fit it through the door, an oversized piece is also an excellent solution for renters looking to add a big impact to plain white walls. Opting for a larger artwork will also help keep the space feeling uncluttered and most importantly, set the mood and tone of the room.
An Interiors Addict favourite and woman of many talents, photographer, stylist and author Kara Rosenlund has just released a new photographic print size option to her online store. To celebrate the launch of her new range, Kara shared with us three fun ways to style an extra large artwork in your home.
1. The lean
“I love the relaxed feel that a photographic work leaning on the wall gives to a room,” says Kara. “You don’t have to worry about hanging it and it gives you the versatility to handle the work like a piece of furniture and move it around the house.”
Kara suggests interchanging your artwork between rooms to lift and enhance the atmosphere depending on the season (or even your mood). An oversized piece can easily be introduced into the bedroom or hallways for some newness.
2. Companion pieces
“Pairing two extra large sized prints increases the visual impact of the works and is an effortless way to create an unforgettable space,” says Kara.
Kara’s big tip is to choose pieces to pair together that stay loyal to the same theme – seascapes, black and whites or landscapes with similar colour tones. This will strengthen your visual message in the room.
3. Make an entrance
Set the tone of your home as soon as you walk through the door with an oversized piece at the entryway.
“In my entryway it’s a rather narrow space, so I selected a vertical oversized piece to emphasise the height, rather than a horizontal work,” adds Kara.
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.
If you’re reading this covertly at work, while counting down the minutes until 5pm… listen up! The story of Carla Coulson may just be what you need to hear. While it was her stunning art prints which first caught our attention (and you’ll probably want one in your home now too!) her back story just had to be shared as well.
Carla
At 35, Carla took a plunge. Fed up with her life in Sydney, she left her job and her home and moved across the world to Florence, Italy to study photography. It was a punt but it paid off, with Marie Claire publishing 13 pages of her work just months out of art school.
Carla had little experience, having owned a promotional clothing business prior to changing careers. But what she did have was drive and the courage to persevere, even when things went horribly wrong. “I had only previously done a night course in photography and was the only person that managed to develop a roll of film with nothing on it! I was so embarrassed I didn’t continue the course. But visuals, aesthetics and beautiful things were always a passion and I loved the idea of creating images from ideas.” So inevitably, Carla was drawn back.
With a style that is full of life, love and laughter, it was her first book Italian Joy that really cemented Carla as photographer worth remembering. “Publishing Italian Joy will always remain a highlight in my life. It was one of those things that you walk away from and can’t believe it just happened to you. These sorts of opportunities are gifts and at the time, felt like a miracle.”
Over a decade later and now living in Paris, Carla’s photography has evolved, with her Jeune Fille En Fleur collection synonymous to her name. Featuring a woman running around France’s capital with huge bouquets of breathtaking blooms, it’s full of mystery and movement.
“What’s her name, you want to ask? Where is she going? Is she on a date, doing a delivery or just on the way home from the market? Men turn their heads, women stop in awe at the beauty of both of them; the flowers and the girl.” Available as limited edition prints, the photographs may be able to starve your desire to jump on a plane to Paris… for now.
Carla has now expanded her repertoire, offering workshops, coaching and more. “I started teaching photography about four years ago as I wanted to pass on the knowledge I had learnt. But my path to becoming a creative coach happened much more by serendipity. A couple of years ago, in the space of a few months I was asked to photograph two successful life coaches and both invited me to their workshops. Being immersed in their world was love at first sight. I realised it was the missing piece that I was looking for to help people make the changes they wanted.”
So Carla found her mission: to show the world you don’t have to settle for that 9-to-5 day job and that you can lead a happy, successful life being a creative. “Big business need creatives at every level to realise their ideas and I am constantly astounded why society, schools and institutions don’t celebrate and promote creative careers to young people. I would love that one day a career as an interior designer, graphic artist, photographer, film maker, videographer, illustrator or make-up artist is as celebrated and suggested to our youth as it is to be a lawyer, doctor or accountant.” Hear, hear!
If you love Europe, or just beautiful photography in general, you’re bound to find a Carla Coulson print you’d love in your home.
As I write this it’s pouring, my feet are hovering dangerously close to the fire and I am debating whether I should ever brace the outdoors again. So while those sweet, sun-kissed days are out of reach, I’m going to live vicariously through Urban Road’s latest collection Rhapsody, an homage to the Australian summer.
Drawing inspiration from brightly coloured beach umbrellas, toes dipped in cool blue water and moments spent watching sunsets with a cocktail (or two), the collection is a harmony of textured abstracts, intricately illustrated watercolours and photographic montages of the ocean’s dynamic ebbs and flows.
This collection also sees the release of Urban Road’s first ever wallpaper collection. Staying true to the brand’s iconic style, the range carries the motifs, shapes and moods that have popularised their collections to date.
The brainchild of self-taught artist and illustrator Suzie Atkin, Urban Road has been sprucing up the walls of homes since 2010. Affordable and high-quality, the artworks are easy-to-match with both contemporary and traditional settings.
From humble beginnings Urban Road now boasts over 1000 products – from its signature premium artworks, to cushions, rugs, acrylic art pieces and poster prints.
The Rhapsody collection will be available for purchase from 24 July.
Urban Road will be at Decor + Design in Melbourne this week, stand D26.
While Katie Clulow boasts a 20-year floristry career, her floral skills go well beyond the creation of a simple bouquet. A self-taught botanical photographer, the Sydneysider is also a textile designer, fibre artist and basket maker too. “I find it hard to define what I do exactly but I certainly spend a lot of time admiring flowers!” says Katie.
‘Alice’ limited edition print
“I was lucky in that flowers seemed to find me. From florist to flower buyer, and spending a lot of early mornings at the flower markets, I started to document the flowers. Each season was so different, as were the changes in flower trends. When Instagram began, it was the perfect place for Flowers For Kate to unfold,” says Katie.
Open edition blue hydrangea print
And like many mothers, it was after the birth of her children that Katie’s career took a different turn. “As a mother of two kids I wanted to be present and at home as they grew up. Floristry requires long hours and is very physical, retail work. Flowers For Kate has grown from a need to create – as a mother, life can’t always be about nurturing others. We need to feed our own souls to be better at life. I love making, creating and designing and Flowers For Kate has enabled me to do that from home so I feel very fortunate,” says Katie.
‘Evelyn in decay’ limited edition print
Drawing primarily from nature; colour, texture and form are Katie’s biggest inspirations. “Simple and accessible natural beauty is usually the best inspiration, from dandelions on the street verge to a perfectly grown garden rose. I love how colour can affect an entire room and I am very aware of colours when selecting the flowers that I shoot,” says Katie who has recently began experimenting with macro lenses that produce all that gorgeous detail that is found in her prints.
Hydrangea linen cushion
“With my photography, I started printing on textiles as I found it more forgiving – organic linens, canvas and crisp cottons for soft furnishings,” says Katie who prints her designs on paper too. “I am loving the textural matte finish and printing on paper was always a huge goal for me. These last six months have been a massive learning curve but rewarding too,” says Katie.
‘Coral Peony’ limited edition print
As for the wide and enduring appeal of flowers, Katie puts it well. “Coming from a floristry background, flowers were bought for a first love, to heal, to mark the birth of a new baby, to give to a friend, sell a home, to say sorry and to mark the end of a life. Just the fragrance can transport us to a different time or place. They really are magical,” says Katie.
And the winner is @nylon_admiral13! Otherwise known as Luci Sleep! Congratulations, Luci! You win the gorgeous Hyam rug in Blush from Darren Palmer’s Provincial Lane range for this month’s sponsor, Carpet Court, worth more than $1,000.
Carpet Court ambassador Darren, who picked the winner, said: “I only noticed after reviewing the entries I liked the most that two of them were from Nylon Admiral. I thought the pics were subtle and nuanced, moody and had real character.
“The play of light and shade, compositions, all outstanding and each image worked well as a part of her overall week’s submissions. All in all, great skill and a great eye.”
I have to say, Luci was definitely on my favourites shortlist too!
Thanks so much to Carpet Court for the great themes and prize, to Darren for judging, and to everyone who took part, for brightening my feed. I love reading all your comments about how much you enjoy and get out of taking part. See you all next month!
The prize
If you’d like to take part in next month’s contest, read the guidelines and feel free to ask any questions in the comments. Luci, please contact us with your address and telephone number so we can get your prize to you!
Ideal for intrepid travellers and lovers of landscapes, Clair Estelle Print Shop is the perfect spot to pick up that finishing interior touch, without breaking the bank.
The creation of Brisbane based photographer Clair Estelle, the print range features striking scenes from the Moorish palaces of Morrocco to the beaches of Italy and the mountains of Nepal, plus a whole lot more.
“As a photographer, for the past 10 years I’ve travelled the globe photographing many a street scene, colourful market, gorgeous beach or amazing location, studying the colours shapes and movement that contribute to the ever-flowing river that is life,” says Clair.
With prints starting at $30 and print sizes ranging from A4 and A3 to larger hero sizes A2 and A1, they’re super affordable too.
“Recently moving home from London, my background is in graphic design and fine art photography. My photography work has been featured within various magazines and blogs and can be found in private collections worldwide.”
Perfect for the globetrotters among us, the only thing you’ll wish is that you’d taken the pictures yourself.
Armelle Habib is one of interiors most sought-out photographers. I wouldn’t be exaggerating when I say we publish a home or furniture range she’s shot nearly every week! So when I found out she had decided to launch her own limited-edition photographic art print range — inspired by travel — I wasn’t surprised, but I was extremely excited.
“Launching my debut collection has been something I’ve thought and talked about for a while,” explains Armelle. “If I boiled it right down, my love of travel is what led me down the path of becoming a professional photographer, so hence this range is inspired by travel, warm climates, texture and colour!”
[contextly_sidebar id=”bkdpnPGNlXyk41S9tL9ktgN3SnsiEvEv”]Having recently entered motherhood, whilst also renovating her home (busy bee!), the idea for the range came about when Armelle was contemplating her blank walls. Finding herself daydreaming about Croatia where the skies were blue, the water clear and the air warm, she dug out some shots from the archives, printed one and hung it on the bare wall. “Friends have always encouraged me to curate a series, so with this and my reno in mind, I made some selections of other places I would love to be, and here we are. I guess it has been a long time coming. It has always been on the cards.”
Now rather than taking photos of beautifully styled interiors, Armelle’s artworks are being used to help style those exact same spaces, with her prints being very well-received. “It seems that people’s love of colour and exotic destinations is a shared one, and the prints are heading out to many interior projects and walls in people’s homes as we speak.”
Clearly a summer fan (Armelle believes she was a lizard in a past life!), her collection was inspired by her love of warm, tropical and exotic environments. “The colours and landscapes of Mexico were hard to beat and feature heavily in this first collection, as do beaches. My prints sum up the escapes I take in my head from the depths of our cold winter months here in Melbourne.”
So, if you’re feeling like an escape yourself (it may be summer but let’s admit Australia has notoriously moody weather!) check out Armelle prints now. All prints come with a certificate of authenticity and are signed and numbered.
Clair at work
