Naomi Murrell

Follow

2011-10-20T13:54:00.001+10:30

We are totally smitten with our latest stockist, Follow. Launched in August by Sarah and Brooke, the wunderkinds behind the Finders Keepers events, Follow is located in Surry Hills, Sydney. In, wait for it... an original apothecary fit out space, complete with wooden cabinets to boot! And they've stocked it out to the brim with damn fine goods from all our favourite independent labels. Fashion, jewellery, stationery, art, home wares and all sorts. You name it they may very well have it. And if you can't make it to Sydney, they also have an online shoppe. One not to miss people.

All images borrowed from the Follow.

Presence

2011-10-20T13:16:00.000+10:30

A few snaps by shop owner, photographer and all round coolster, Kate Pardey, from our super cute new stockist, Presence. Check it out if you're in the Hyde Park area of Adelaide.

Show & Tell

2011-07-25T15:12:00.000+09:30

It's that time of year again when we pack up all our wares and take a wintery trip to Melbourne to show all our new shiny things at the Life Instyle trade show. If you're one of our lovely stockists or you'd like to be, come see us next week, at stand #112 ground floor, at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne!

Meanwhile, consider this little charmer a taste of things to come...

JUNE SALE - Further Markdowns!

2011-06-22T11:48:00.000+09:30

Woop!!! Thanks for your support our sale items are going like hot cakes!
Check out our June Sale with up to 70% off on selected items on now!
Jump to... shop.naomimurrell.com

Shameless Self Promotion on the ABC

2011-06-20T15:49:00.001+09:30

Three and a half minutes of fame for the Frauleins last week on the ABC's 7:30 program!! Features mini interviews with me, Anna Creasy, Georgia Gabrielle and Katrina Weber (of Kitty Came Home). Lots of fun and nerves and giggles were had behind the scenes, as can be seen in Katrina's action shots below...

FLASH SALE!!

2011-06-10T10:20:00.000+09:30

Get in quick peeps, four days only.

Friday 10th to Monday 13th June

Enter the promo code FLASHSALE in the CART to receive 30% discount

off the marked price of all styles online at shop.naomimurrell.com

including new arrivals and already reduced items.

Our first ever FLASH SALE starts NOW!!

Opening Night

2011-06-09T18:38:00.000+09:30

Much fun was had last Wednesday night for the Frau's opening. More delectable art and social shots can be viewed here. Images thanks to Alex Kwong who managed to capture the evening on camera!

Make a mess before you find what you're looking for.

2011-05-31T19:36:00.002+09:30

That's my creative process anyway. Dive right in and completely immerse myself in trying to create what I'm dreaming of. And keep working until I find what I'm looking for. Sometimes I don't exactly know what that is until after it has surfaced on the page before me. Like this little piece did. I call her Trip the Light Fantastic. Reminds me of the froth and tulle of ballet. Come see what else came out of the mess on my kitchen table last week at the Frauleins show. Opening Wednesday people.

Frauleins ~ Three Times a Lady

2011-05-29T18:36:00.000+09:30

Hip Cats & Bowerbirds

2011-04-19T15:07:00.000+09:30

Hola!

We're setting up shop again at Queens Theatre for the fantabulous Bowerbird Bazaar (map) event this May! We'll be showcasing our wares shoulder to shoulder with 70 handpicked independent Australian design labels, with plenty of local tasty treats and thirst quenching bevvies on offer too.

Come soak up the atmosphere and mingle with us creative types. The Naomi Murrell stall will be overflowing with goodness from our signature range of shiny happy jewellery pieces, home wares, and notecards. Plus, look out for new additions to our silver and wood lines!

Facebook friends of Naomi Murrell will receive a super-special 20% discount for purchases made at Bowerbird Bazaar. Like? Then join the group by clicking on the link below and mention this promo at our stall to receive some VIP loving!

We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Workshop Jumble Sale

2011-04-07T11:43:00.000+09:30

Don't you think it's always fun to find something cute to buy when you least expect it? And isn't it even better when it's affordable? And the icing on the cake if it's a designer something or other?

But what if you didn't have to rummage through a skanky old op shop or get up at the crack of dawn for the garage sale two doors down to feel this good?

Forget op shopping. Say no to garage sales. At least until next week.

Our friends at Workshop in Adelaide are having a JUMBLE SALE this weekend, and we reckon you should pop on in and peruse the glorious mish mash of vintage and new clothing, accessories, fabric, books, records and bric-a-brac for yourself!

We're joining in on the fun by throwing in a few killer NM jewellery bargains! Get in quick, limited pieces available.

Viva la jumble sale!

Yen

2011-03-28T16:14:00.000+10:30

Over the moon to see my work in print this month in Yen magazine, alongside the beautiful work of my clever friends Anna, Elisa and Eugenia and all other talented artists who contributed to the Nursery Rhymes show. Yay town. Thanks Yen.

Help Japan

2011-03-21T17:24:00.000+10:30

For the next two weeks we will be doing our little bit and donating proceeds from all sales of our sterling silver Heart Studs to the World Vision Japan disaster appeal to help support and rebuild Japan.

Our hearts go out to all those affected by the earthquake and tsunami.

Baby Sophisticate

2011-03-08T17:10:00.000+10:30

How perfect is the name of this cardi? LOVE it. You can download the pattern for nada here, and I'm telling you it was so easy to make (for our friends Bel & Tim who are expecting a baby any day now). No seams or anything, it's all knitted in one piece. Now I just wish I knew how to scale this up to adult size...

Friends with Skills #1: Katie Shriner

2011-01-13T13:31:00.000+10:30

One of the best things about being self employed is being able to work with talented friends, which makes it feel less like work and more like FUN!

Last year we put together a photo shoot featuring the beautiful model, Katie Shriner. Katie is one of those girls who's good at heaps of stuff, including super realistic oil painting, which just kinda blows me away. Her choice of subject matter really resonates with me too. Can't wait to see what she comes up with next!

Check out some of her recent work above:
Dad ~ Oil on Canvas, 2010
Montmartre ~ Oil on Canvas, 2010
Big Sister ~ Oil on Canvas, 2010

Sailor's Delight

2011-01-05T11:46:00.000+10:30

Red sky at night,

Sailor's delight;
Red sky at morning,
Sailor's warning.

My latest piece, in water colour, brush & ink on illustration board... whipped up at the last minute for the Nursery Rhymes group show opening at Urban Cow in Adelaide tonight, and curated by the amazing Eugenia Tsimiklis.

Yokoo

2010-12-20T12:42:00.000+10:30

Handmade Portraits: YOKOO from Etsy on Vimeo.

My knitting obsession continues to be fed by the wunderkind that is Yokoo. Love her thoughts here on how being yourself is not hard work and how she loves being hardcore about being good at what she does.

La Fleur ~ New Colourways

2010-12-14T12:42:00.001+10:30

Very excited to see sprout design's latest release of my La Fleur fabric in muted tones! I'm all over the pure white on natural, and don't mind a bit of the cacao or denim blue either. Very nice and earthy. Looks rad with the coordinating sprout design Dots print, also pictured above. Now available at One Small Room in Croydon, SA.

Happy DAVE

2010-12-06T14:44:00.001+10:30

Happy birthday for yesterday Mister! I'm quite enjoying how the Yves Klein Blue-ness of your new wheels match our Lovely Folk print too*.

*A total coincidence by the way, we are not that wanky that our bikes must match our art.

Nana Times

2010-12-02T15:05:00.000+10:30

I often think I might be spending my whole life practicing to be a nana. Only in the sense that so many of my hobbies are distinctly nana-ish. Knitting, dressmaking, book clubs and tea drinking to name just a few. I just finished knitting this little cardi for our new nephew, Patrick, and I'm a bit stoked with it because a) it was quite complicated with patterns and button holes and the like, and b) I actually finished it.

Inspiration ahoy.

2010-12-01T17:11:00.001+10:30

I've been researching for a new piece I'm working on, and have become slightly obsessed with vintage sailor girl images. These are some of my faves I've found around the interwebs.

Magnolia Square Market is on Now!

2010-11-26T13:53:00.006+10:30

Get on down to the Norwood Concert Hall today or tomorrow to catch the Adelaide Magnolia Square design markets event. There's heaps of great designers to check out including the lovely Sarah Rothe, Messagemark, OiBoi and of course we have a stand too. We'd love to see you there!

On Your Bike

2010-10-01T15:00:00.000+09:30

Hearting this page of bicycle goodness as seen in Home Beautiful mag this month.

Coming Up ~ Bowerbird Bazaar

2010-09-28T12:13:00.000+09:30

Hello Friends!

It's that time of year again, when Bowerbird Bazaar (map) brings together the best of local and national designers and makers for a feast for Adelaide's creative, crafty and curious folk. We'll be exhibiting our wares along with 70 other handpicked talents from around Australia.

As well as some classic cuteness from A Little Love, the Naomi Murrell stall will feature brand new art prints, note cards and sterling silver and wooden jewellery from our current range, Lovely Folk. Our famous teak wall birds will also be available at Bowerbird Bazaar for the first time!

Facebook friends of Naomi Murrell will receive a super-special 20% discount for purchases made at Bowerbird Bazaar. Like? Then join the group by clicking on the "like" button below and mention this promo at our stall to receive some VIP loving!

We're looking forward to seeing you all! Bring your bike basket and fill it with Christmas presents for friends, family and even for your self.

Best,
Naomi & Co.

2010-09-23T18:22:00.000+09:30

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The Wilderness Downtown

2010-09-16T17:26:00.000+09:30

If you haven't seen this by now, it's worth checking out. Nice use of nostalgia. Helps if you like the music too. Which I do. I'm really interested in how nostalgia works and what triggers it... music, images, a certain shade of colour, a time where the light is just right, or that perfume your best friend used to wear. So much inspiration comes from memories I think.

Trade Show & Tell

2010-09-06T18:55:00.000+09:30

August was the month of the trade show here at team Murrell. We had a great time in Melbourne catching up with lots of inspiring and interesting designers and buyers, plus meeting loads of new friendly faces. BIG thanks go to Dave and Nick for building our sweet as jewellery cabinet and painting it in the middle of winter in the rain! Also big ups to everyone who came by to say hello at Flemington. A huge amount of work and lack of sleep goes into a show like this and we truly appreciate the warm response we received from y'all. Oh and huge thanks to Peta for flying over to help us out in our maddest moments. You are too kind. xx

Somewhere

2010-09-02T17:32:00.001+09:30

Somewhere in the world Sofia Coppola has been busy making a new film. Something tells me I will like it. I hope to see it sometime.

See the trailer for Somewhere here.

All quiet on the bloggin front.

2010-09-01T16:25:00.000+09:30

It's been a while since I've had time to sit down and go at less than 100 miles an hour on the work side of things. I'm grateful for the busy, wonderful winter we've had, but am also looking forward to lazy days drawing in a cafe somewhere.

The Harvest

2010-07-06T17:57:00.000+09:30

The Harvest. Film trailer. from LOVER® on Vimeo.

Beautiful short film by Australian cult label, Lover. Reminds me of Terrence Malik's 1978 film, Days of Heaven which I watched for the first time last week and loved like crazy.

The opening titles, the narration, the house on the hill, the land, the girls, young Richard Gere, the steam trains, simple clothes, the music. Doesn't get much better than this people!

Oranges: Nah. Persimmons: Jah!

2010-06-22T13:58:00.000+09:30

I like to think I'm a pretty open minded person but for years I've been anti anything orange. Recently I was pleasantly surprised to find that persimmons are really beautiful in winter and that maybe I can learn to love and even design with this colour in mind. Two cases in point:

1. Persimmons featuring as props in our latest photo shoot by Ms Belinda Monck*.
2. My new print, The Woods.

*More to come from this shoot soon!

Hot Specs

2010-06-16T17:13:00.001+09:30

Wouldn't mind a pair of these. The specs I mean.

Good For What Ails Ya!

2010-06-08T18:07:00.000+09:30

Over the past few weeks I've been run down with an annoying cold, which has turned me into a chrysalis on the couch for way too long. However the up side of this is that I managed to:

a) Finish watching the final series of The Wire. Possibly the best show EVER. I'm seriously considering naming my dog McNulty, (Or maybe Omar...?), if we ever get around to being pet owners.
b) Rock my new Rittenhouse pirate top.
c) Cultivate my forgotten passion for NBA play offs. Go Lakers.
d) Snap up some black leather Bloch jazz shoes on Etsy. Yeehaw.

Air Fare

2010-06-07T18:38:00.000+09:30

Who knew mid century Australian graphics were so damn good? Not I, until I discovered a day too late these Qantas posters for auction at our local auction house... Fortunately some of these works by Harry Rogers have recently been re-released in limited edition, get your mitts on em here. More of the original range can be viewed here.

FYI... I love the Tiger.

Loving Le Coq

2010-05-20T16:25:00.000+09:30

I've been drawing lots of roosters lately and was quite taken with this hilarious little chap when I found him in Dave's fave sneaker shop, Footage.

Everyday Eats

2010-05-20T16:14:00.000+09:30

Whenever we travel Dave and I end up spending loads of time talking and eating and watching local baristas do their thing. Like in Sydney, where we recently fell in love with The Commons in Darlinghurst, and Kawa in Surry Hills. Both are great examples of understated, relaxing but thoughtfully designed cafes, and they seem to have that rustic Aussie feel but in a warm Sydney style, which is definitely different to the cosy cool places you find everywhere in Melbourne. The Commons had the BEST native flower arrangements I have ever seen.

The Bunny Shot

2010-05-17T16:29:00.001+09:30

We were kept endlessly amused by the antics of the super cute Jess and her hilarious customers as they posed in all sorts of outfits at her polaroid photo booth, which was next to our stand at Finders Keepers. At the very end we finally got a chance to let our inner Donnie Darko selves loose for a turn in front of the camera. Cute eh? With an edge of freaked out dork, just to keep it real.

To market, to market!

2010-05-17T16:06:00.000+09:30

After our 3 day whistle-stop tour of Sydney we have returned with more cash, less stock, more ideas and less energy than we had when we left. Dave also scored an amazing duffle jacket by the label Vanishing Elephant (Murakami reference anyone?!).... can't find a decent photo of it anywhere online... Anyway, a good weekend was had by all. Props to the Finders Keepers ladies for running such a smooth event in the AMAZING Carriageworks, and cheers for the backing tracks supplied by a never-ending parade of folksy music types. LOVED it!!

The Finders Keepers!

2010-05-06T12:41:00.002+09:30

Soundtrack to my week.

2010-05-06T12:37:00.003+09:30

(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction: Cat Power
Tightrope: Yeasayer
Alpha Shadows: Laura Marling
Man Named Truth: Monsters of Folk
Paint It Black: The Rolling Stones
Tangled up in Blue: Bob Dylan
Bigger Than The Money: Clare Bowditch
Ambling Alp: Yeasayer
Jolene: Dolly Parton
American Music: Violent Femmes
Knotty Pine: David Byrne and Dirty Projectors
Smells Like Teen Spirit: Patti Smith
Sausalito: Connor Oberst
Jimmy: Moriarty
Sleepless: The Decemberists
Cello Song: The Books
Don't Think Twice: Bob Dylan
These Days: Nico

This week is shaping up to be more hectic than most. I'm trying to finalise a heap of new jewellery pieces to be made for the Frauleins show, doing a photo shoot for the current range, oh and just packing up all our gear to head to the Finders Keepers market in Sydney this weekend. Good times! Yet somewhat manic. Keeping me sane is the above track by Yeasayer from the Dark was the Night compilation.

Oh and I also just read this book Dave got me, by Patti Smith, it's about her youth with photographer, Robert Mapplethorpe and was so so good. Made me ponder lots about creative relationships and how rare and wonderful they are... My review won't do her justice, but this is a good intro to Just Kids.

Missed it by this much.

2010-05-03T21:47:00.000+09:30

Damn you ebay! This piece of quilty Gorman cuteness could have been mine. I'll try to be content with admiring it in picture form alone.

Gesa Hansen

2010-05-03T21:37:00.001+09:30

The work of Gesa Hansen caught my eye this week. I stumbled upon her AMAZING furniture design in the latest Monster Children and am totally smitten. So inspiring. It's great to see playful storage design. Sigh.

Fräuleins Orchard

2010-04-21T16:11:00.004+09:30

Featuring //

Clockwise from top left: Georgia Gabrielle Jewellery, Naomi Murrell Jewellery/Illustration, Elisa Mazzone Illustration, Katrina Weber Jewellery/Textiles, Anna Creasy Illustration, Ruby Chew Mixed Media, Peta Alannah Chigwidden Painting, Joelie Croser Illustration.

Opening night //

Wednesday June 2nd, 6pm

Urban Cow Gallery, 11 Frome Street, Adelaide

Exhibition runs until June 28th

The Show //

A concept born from nuturing talented young female creatives in Adelaide, Urban Cow Studio presents a harvest of works from these eight nature-loving artists and designers. Working in the heirloom varieties of painting, illustration and jewellery, this collective continues to nurture one another’s ideas, cultivating a creativity that promises to blossom into a rare display of colour and beauty. The artistic fruits of the Fräuleins are ripe for the picking!

Biking Belles

2010-04-16T17:30:00.004+09:30

Loving this Summer 2010 Lacoste campaign shot by Ellen Von Unwerth. Too cute! Reminds me of the Great Gatsby in some way...

Mister Brack

2010-04-12T21:34:00.000+09:30

I very much enjoy the work of Mister John Brack. Nice shapes and use of colour. Australian without being about the outback...

Warm Hearts

2010-04-12T21:11:00.000+09:30

Good art show openings are hard to come by, but we had the best time a couple of weeks ago at local artist Stephen Langdon's show at Bistro Dom. Beautiful bold paintings, amazing food (fig pizza where have you been all my life?), crispy wine and a bit of banjo picking from the Sea Thieves. Definitely worth dragging myself away from the studio for!

On a side note, banjo is so hot right now.

Note to the Coat

2010-04-08T10:13:00.001+09:30

Dear Karen Walker Peacoat,
Why did I walk into that shop full of clothes I can't afford and find you in all your perfect turquoise glory? Why did you have to be lined with such cute blue and white striped cotton and what is up with those perfect little peace sign buttons? I just thought you should know you're driving me crazy with your perfect little Peter Pan collar and I doubt whether any coat will ever ever keep me warm like you would...

Listening Material

2010-04-06T15:09:00.000+09:30

On high rotation in the studio. Cannot get enough of this Laura Marling lady. And cannot believe she's only 20. Very inspiring. Listen to her here.

If only...

2010-04-06T12:25:00.000+09:30

From Hipster Puppies

little bit of logo appreciation

2010-03-30T17:45:00.001+10:30

Nice work whoever designed these!
• Cibo Gelati... Green Apple. Nuff said.
• Highs and Lows (a sneaker store), snapped while in Perth before Christmas last year.

Bowerbird Bazaar

2010-03-19T17:51:00.010+10:30

Please join us for an exclusive preview of LOVELY FOLK,
a new range of Prints, Jewellery & Cards by Naomi Murrell.
Showing at the Queen's Theatre, Adelaide.

Bowerbird Bazaar 26 - 28th March, 2010
Friday      26th    4pm - 9pm
Saturday 27th   10am - 5pm
Sunday     28th   10am - 4pm

Queen's Theatre : Location Map

The new range is also coming soon to our online shop... stay tuned!

Love, Naomi & Co

Hey folks!

2010-02-15T17:00:00.000+10:30

I'm a sucker for ye olde typography.

This vintage woodblock type sparked the inspiration for our new range, Lovely Folk. Dave and I came across these letters in a whole drawer full of old printer's type in a local second hand store and spent ages in a graphic design wonderland playing with words and shapes. Definitely one of our favourite pastimes!

And we've all been working like crazy to get ready for the preview of Lovely Folk at the upcoming Life Instyle trade fair next week in Sydney. All shall be revealed soon...!

What type are you?

2010-02-04T11:45:00.000+10:30

I'm Archer Hairline. What type are you?

What Type are You? - Pentagram
(Discovered via Bird & Banner)

Give a Little Love

2010-02-01T12:25:00.001+10:30

Thinking of sharing some Valentine's Day cuteness on 14th Febuary? Well... in celebration of all things lovely, we have assembled a gift guide for the discerning romantic.

Click to visit our Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Roman Holiday

2010-02-01T12:14:00.000+10:30

Okay, so I saw the classic Audrey Hepburn film, Roman Holiday, for the first time on the weekend. Totally by accident on a Saturday afternoon on telly. And it was such a visual delight that I did a little hunting online and discovered this beautiful poster, which was designed for the Polish release of the film. Loving it. Also loving gelati carts, black and white film, short hair and rolled up shirt sleeves. Uh oh...I feel a little artistic inspiration coming on.

Oh how I love to live beside the seaside.

2010-02-01T11:48:00.000+10:30

Vintage Eden illustration + sailor girl outfit = so cute it hurts.

Hello!

2010-02-01T11:34:00.002+10:30

Ahh January, where did you go? Seems to have slipped away with holidays and balmy nights and dreaming up new ideas for this year. Planning adventures and filling my head with designy goodness. Some highlights from the month include these wing tips purchased on etsy... how preppy are they??? They're basically just a formal version of my usual uniform of pointy white sneakers, but anyway. I love them. Plus they remind me of Andy Warhol's shoe drawings from his days as an illustrator, which leads me to my next thrilling literary discovery, titled The Philosophy of Andy Warhol, and self written by Andy, this was such a freakin hilarious read. His humour and honest musings on life reminded me of Larry David and David Sedaris. Very inspiring and entertaining stuff Mr Warhol.

Happy 2010

2010-01-25T14:03:00.006+10:30

Happy 2010! To celebrate the new year we are having a 25% OFF EVERYTHING SALE, till January 31 2010. So hook yourself up with some bargains using the
promo code: HAPPY2010.

Jump to the SHOP! http://shop.naomimurrell.com

loving ~ the mountain label

2009-12-17T17:12:00.001+10:30

Totally love this Paris screen print by Christopher Bettig of The Mountain Label. Love lots of his work actually. It's deceptively simple and clever, which is exactly the kind of visual I enjoy creating myself. The tension between the sun and negative space with all the detailed old buildings line work is freakin sweet.

design work for new label :: Oi Boi

2009-12-15T16:03:00.001+10:30

Dave and I have collaborated on a pretty unique client design project over the last little while... We've been partners in crime working on the branding and website for a new Aussie boy's t-shirt label, Oi Boi, the brainchild of the very creative Atsikbasis family. Their first range of 100% cotton tees feature some seriously hilarious prints of illustrations by 8 year old Dion Atskibasis.

We like the ghosts tee in white a lot.

It's definitely been a challenge designing a look and feel which will appeal to boys age 5-10, but also to the mums and dads who will ultimately part with their dollars to dress their kids. We think the result is a good mix of bold graphics, loud typography and hopefully lets the humour of Dion's designs take centre stage.

The highlight of the project for me is the swing tags which were designed as oversize stickers so kids can recycle them to decorate their schoolbooks or whatevs. Oh and we also like the brand slogan:

Make it happen.

so frenchy & funny

2009-12-08T19:04:00.001+10:30

We went to see some French bands play at the Festival Theatre last weekend, who were both out of control awesome folky and hilarious. I'm a big fan of the So Frenchy, So Chic soundtracks, which I think are put out as part of the French Film Festival in Melbourne each year... However I have to be honest and say I wasn't 100% sure what the show would be like. I haven't sought out too many of the So Frenchy artists individually, so it was flippin SWEET to discover that i loved both Cocoon (top) and Moriarty (bottom)...

Images from {frolic!} & Last FM.

Also pleased to note Moriarty named themselves after Dean Moriarty, the hero from Jack Kerouac's On The Road, a classic and beautiful novel which I love and have re read many times. Their album cover art is very reminiscent of Kerouac's typewriting ways too... Ahh so funny and great when things you're into cross over and find you somehow...

Sweet Georgia

2009-12-03T15:07:00.001+10:30

Feeling very lucky to be rocking this new piece of sweet sweet bling. A gift from the amazing Georgia Gabrielle, super talented jeweller and all round coolster. I'm in love with the 1960's Japanese glass cabachon setting. What a cabachon is I'm still not entirely sure but it sure is purty.

coolmart

2009-11-25T15:39:00.004+10:30

One of my favourite nights of the month in Adelaide.

Sessun, c'est tres cool.

2009-11-20T09:05:00.000+10:30

Many years ago I spent some time living in London, eating very poorly, sharing a council flat with friends and rocking some outrageously cool ensembles (amongst let's face it plenty of mixed up/raver/skater/turn of the century/arthouse mishaps)... One garment that fell into the chic category was a wrap style apron top from French label Sessun, who as it turns out are still producing a very French, very understated line of clothing and they have this beautiful little shop in Paris, plus one in Marseille and Aix en Provence. Je t'aime. So imagine my excitement when I received an email out of the blue from Emma asking if she could stock my bird brooches at their Paris store. Ummm let me think for a minute... OUI OUI!! This is possibly the most random exciting thing that's happened to me since starting my business. Now for a trip to Paris. Tax deductable of course!

Ornamental

2009-11-16T17:51:00.001+10:30

These little pieces of festive cheer are off to the Ornamental exhibition at Irving Baby this week. All proceeds from the sales of the group show will be going to the Women's & Children's Hospital in Adelaide. Lots of lovely things made by local creative peeps will be on sale for under $50 each, from Saturday 21st November at Irving Baby, Hindley St.

p.s. Two things I learnt during this process:

1) Balsa wood is hard to come by when architecture uni students are making their end of year models.

2) Red and white twine is officially called Baker's Twine and is delightful.

Deanne Cheuk, Designer Extraordinare

2009-11-14T16:35:00.002+10:30

When I was a student Deanne Cheuk's Magazine, Mu was one of the most inspiring pieces of design I was able to access in my part of the world. I was recently checking out some of her more recent work on her website, and came across this fantastic t-shirt graphic. It makes me laugh a lot. I like her approach to typography too, she creates some really beautiful work.

"My Will Is Good" by Port O'Brien

2009-11-14T12:16:00.001+10:30

There's something about this video and song that makes me feel nostalgic for the 90's. That big drum is so cool. Not sure why but I REALLY love it.

You can download the tune from their site for free at the mo too, if anyone's interested: http://portobrien.com/

Inside Out Press!

2009-11-09T15:20:00.003+10:30

There has been excitement in the studio today as we poured over the Christmas issue of Inside Out, which includes two of Naomi’s pieces! The rock maple apple brooch looks delightful as one of 100 sensational stocking fillers. More exciting, however, is the shot of Naomi’s beautiful ‘Flock’ print at the front of the mag. The super-cute mantelpiece styling shows how Naomi’s work can be incorporated into your own wall space. Framed prints like this one have just hit the shelves at Bauhaus, Rundle Street Adelaide. For other stockists see Naomi’s website.

Jess

What a Wonderful Wall

2009-11-02T18:47:00.002+10:30

Ever looked down at your bird brooch and thought: ‘My home would look good in that’? Or maybe that’s just me? In any case, I bring you good news, folks! Naomi has released a range of flying lovebirds with which you can adorn your wall. Evoking her whimsical folk aesthetic, Naomi’s flying lovebirds re-imagine the vintage charm of 1950s wall ducks, bringing it into the twenty-first century. Made from lightweight teak veneer, this trio of lovelies costs $120 and is available exclusively at One Small Room, Croydon. Fly in for a peep!

Jess

swedish hasbeens

2009-10-28T18:04:00.000+10:30

How funny is the brand name? But what a good looking shoe. I love the fact that it is based on a 70's style and still made in a little factory in Sweden. If anyone is wondering what I want for Christmas this is it!! Just came across them today while looking up stuff & things... Man. I usually hate the idea of heels, because a) I can't walk in them and b) they are painful. But these look comfy and super hot.

mega shop update!

2009-10-27T16:28:00.001+10:30

Lots of brand new wares and a top up on old favourites now available in the shoppy shop!! Clutches, totes & cushions galore. Plus super delightful sterling silver bird brooches and necklaces. Limited pieces available before Christmas, first in best dressed!

tea time

2009-10-26T17:07:00.001+10:30

Anyone who knows me knows I love tea. Love it bad. Can't have black tea after lunch because I can't sleep with even a tiny bit of caffeine in my body. Delicate flower that I am. It seems this obsession has spilled over into my drawing because I just made this series of tea swilling girls and I keep getting ideas for more... Might have to look into food & lifestyle mag editorial as some work on the side if this keeps up. Not sure how many tea related pictures is too many when it comes to my own kitchen wall?

mumford and sons

2009-10-20T17:23:00.000+10:30

Never since the mandolin & banjo strummings of R.E.M. have I heard such a beautiful indie folk sound. Currently obsessed with these dudes.

madhatter's tea party

2009-10-20T17:22:00.011+10:30

Hello! There's going to be a small show of some local Adelaide artistes opening at Tin Cat this Wednesday evening... Feel free to come along if you're in the hood.

i heart miranda july

2009-10-19T15:44:00.005+10:30

The Hallway from The Hallway on Vimeo.

I have a major girl crush on Miranda July. I came across this excellent installation of hers a while ago and thought I should share. I also picked up some of her Third Draw Down pillowcases last week at the bazaar. They continue to crack me up.

markets & mayhem

2009-10-14T18:42:00.005+10:30

I am super tired but super inspired after the Bowerbird Bazaar last weekend. Three days of fun, new friends, clever creative folk & good design. Thanks to all involved in organising the amazing event (Bek, Jane, Vicki), you ladies rock! And thanks to everyone who came by and added to the general happiness. Can't wait for the next one, it's sure to be even bigger and better!!

Here's a taste of the goodness... {photos by Denis & Kyrie of MSGMRK, more here}

love and stuff

2009-10-07T16:41:00.007+10:30

It's definitely wedding season round these parts, we attended 2 amazing weddings within 24 hours of each other last weekend. Crazy times!

The first was very traditional and formal, with a church ceremony and chic sit down dinner & dancing. Tres olde worlde, with lots of great peeps and excellent speeches. The second was the cutest garden wedding ever! So colourful and clever, complete with bird cage, vintage typewriter and surprise South African choir performance.

I must admit I'm not usually a wedding lover (I hate dressing up & the formalities make me anxious), but the one thing I do like about them is they give people an opportunity to say how they feel about each other and talk about love. Which has got to be a good thing. And it's inspiring to meet so many people from different walks of life. I like that.

Congratulations Kate & Darren!
And congrats to Em & Josh too!

some spring in my step

2009-09-27T18:34:00.016+09:30

I recently re-discovered these 2 spring-esque images in my back catalogue of inspiration and thought they deserved a cameo on here. The cat and vintage floral wallpaper shot was taken by me years ago, and I'm not sure where the volksy image came from, so I'm sorry I can't give credit where it's due. I've always loved old bugs, to me they're the one car that can get away with being virtually any shade of awesomeness without looking like they're wearing the motoring version of fancy dress.

save your pennies

2009-09-10T16:54:00.006+09:30

More excitement is brewing for a brand new design market about to swoop in and deliver awesomeness to Adelaide... Bowerbird Bazaar will be launching at Queen's Theatre in Adelaide from Friday 9th - Sunday 11th October. The Bazaar will be a mix of a mini trade fair and creative marketplace, open only to trade on Friday afternoon & evening, and then to the public on Saturday & Sunday.

Great boutique designer wares from jewellery and fashion to furniture and homewares, labels like Pigeonhole, Lola & Bailey, Cloth & Nastalie will all be there, so it's the perfect place to meet loads of clever creative types and buy direct from the makers themselves. Special! Dave and I are very excited to be involved in such a great event in our own hood. Please come by and say hi if you can, we'd love to meet you!

* And for anyone who wants to get involved (specially Adelaide peeps), applications are still open until 18th September.

Really N.E.E.T.

2009-09-10T16:36:00.005+09:30

Thanks to Stephanie of N.E.E.T. magazine for including me in her September issue. For anyone who hasn't come across it yet, N.E.E.T. is a beautiful online mag with an emphasis all on grassroots creativity and fashion. N.E.E.T. showcases independent, vintage, eco-friendly and organic designers, shops and artists from all over the world. I was quite excited to be involved, not to mention super inspired by the evocative photography in the fashion stories. Check it out!

rustic wonder

2009-08-30T22:24:00.003+09:30

I really appreciate this old timey approach to food storage by Diana from The Jewels of New York, found at design*sponge whilst trawling through many a creative home. The actual storage is inspired by stackable chicken coops, can you believe it?

feist ♥

2009-08-24T16:58:00.004+09:30

Totally digging this poster design by Vahalla Studios available at Poster Cabaret. Very noice indeed.

we're note worthy

2009-08-11T17:42:00.011+09:30

Okay that's a pretty bad pun even for me. What I really want to tell you is that I've been working away on a new collaboration for a while now with the lovely Louise Redman of Poppy Letterpress. And now 5 of my most exquisitely hand printed designs are available in card format and are like totally worthy of your notes! The stock we've used is 100% cotton, partially sourced from remnants at garment mills, so it's super soft and the prints leave a beautiful deep impression in the cotton. Ahh letterpress where have you been all my life? Pop over to my shop to have a gander at the goodness.

nice to be home

2009-08-09T21:30:00.009+09:30

As much as I love the vibrance of a gritty, arty big city, it's so good to come home. Here's a few shots from the lovely Elisa Mazzone's show, Little Whispers. And some pics of Anna Creasy's characterful illustrations on show during SALA (South Australian Living Artists festival). I must say it's nice to have a break from exhibiting my own work and take the time to appreciate some of my very talented friends xx

Also for any creative types who design and or make clever things to sell, you may be interested in peddling your awesomeness at the upcoming Bowerbird Bazaar in Adelaide this October. Applications for exhibiting close soon, so head over to the website real quick!

melbourne i love you

2009-08-09T19:55:00.010+09:30

So many good people to meet, new friends to make, good places to eat, great design to be inspired by and hula hoop action in the bars. Not to mention tree trunks wrapped in doilies. Wow. Thanks to everyone who stopped by at our stand during Life Instyle and thanks to all our new stockists - can't wait to send out your orders!!

May I suggest any visitors check out any or all of the following Melbourne goodness:

Lovely & clever designers...
Dani M Designs
Able & Game

Eats & drinks...
Little Creatures Beer Hall, Brunswick St Fitzroy (Aussie beer & tucker)
Bar de los Santos, Brunswick St Fitzroy (Spanish tapas & sangria)
Wood Spoon Kitchen, Smith St Collingwood (Japanese yummm)
Arcadia, Gertrude St, Fitzroy (cosy cafe for brekky & lunch)

Sweet as shopping...
Toolz, Smith St Collingwood (Japanese & Korean earthy fashions)
Title, Gertrude St Fitzroy (arthouse books, music, films)
Douglas & Hope, Brunswick St Fitzroy (beautiful clothing, quilts and whimsical whatnots)
Meet Me at Mikes, Brunswick St Fitzroy (crafty, quirky vintage colourful!)

back on deck

2009-08-05T19:06:00.006+09:30

Phew. We made it back in one piece. The show & Melbourne were amazing. Great peeps, food & Fitzroy style. Highlights to come soon!

life in style trade show

2009-07-24T12:58:00.001+09:30

We've been in a whirlwind of design & planning for the past few months getting ready to release our first full range, A Little Love, at the upcoming Life In Style trade fair, next week in Melbs. Hand-printed letterpress note cards and screen-printed canvas bags and cushions complete the collection, along with the new and improved jewellery (now with sterling silver chain!) and the ye olde but goodie screen prints. Updates to the website coming this week too!

I owe a huge thanks to Dave and my sister Jess, who have been very patient, helpful & creative throughout the whole design process xx

Oh and just a little note to let y'all know any etsy orders made over the next 2 weeks will be posted by Friday 7th August.

still cuties after all these years

2009-07-01T12:57:00.005+09:30

I can't wipe the smile off my face. Totally ♥ the Simon & Garfunkel show in Ads last night. So so good. Was particularly pleased with the Paul Simon Graceland era interlude too. Took me back to one rainy Adelaide Grand Prix concert from my childhood. V. nice. The night ended on a personal fave of mine, Cecila, which incidentally makes an appearance on my favourite 10 tracks (drum roll please)..... OF ALL TIME.

Here they are in no particular order:

REM: Losing My Religion
Eddie Vedder: Society
Johnny Cash: One
Fleet Foxes: Your Protector
Tracy Chapman: Fast Car
Fleetwood Mac: Never Going Back Again
PJ Harvey & Thom Yorke: This Mess We're In
Ryan Adams: La Cienega Just Smiled
Patti Smith: Land
Arcade Fire: AntiChrist Television Blues
Ben Harper: Oppression
Bruce Springsteen: Atlantic City
Simon & Garfunkel: Cecilia
Bob Dylan: Hurricane
REM: The One I Love

hey ladies!

2009-06-25T11:58:00.004+09:30

A few shots before the madness of the Frauleins opening... Thanks so much to all our friends & fam who came along & thanks to Georgia for taking a snap of our signage - looking tres profesh! The bottom shot shows four of the frauleins: L-R: Katrina Weber, Joelie Croser, Ruby Chew, and moi. The other image is of me looking very pleased with our last minute hanging of my owls in Elisa's bird cage. Show ends this weekend - still time to check it out if you're in the hood.

frau at the cow

2009-06-01T14:59:00.002+09:30

Nearly ready for the Frauleins show on Wednesday!! Just putting the finishing touches on our pieces, framing them, hanging and whatnot. Then we're ready to open. Please come up to Urban Cow Gallery on Frome Road for a drink & some art appreciation if you're free this Wednesday. It's going to be a good night!!

sarah blasko

2009-05-19T13:44:00.009+09:30

Is currently on high rotation in the studio. Being inspired by music is so important to me, and when I'm working on new graphics whether for a client or my own line, whatever I'm listening to influences my mood & the outcome of the design. So I'd like to say thank you to Sarah Blasko for her new gem, All I Want. If this is anything to go by, once her new album arrives I'll be crafting sweet designs for quite some time!

Fräuleins Playthings

2009-05-12T10:38:00.006+09:30

I'm going to be part of a fabulous upcoming art show with a group of super talented Adelaide ladies, called Fräuleins Playthings. Featuring a smorgasbord of painting, jewellery, leather bags and illustration for you to devour! Check out our blog for more info on the artists and to take a look at our creative processes & studios...

for ladies who love nature

2009-05-06T10:25:00.005+09:30

Time to show you a little winter addition to the range... etched wooden & perspex Nature Lover pendants now available in stores & online! I find the length of these necklaces just right for wearing with high waisted skirts & jeans. Or however you like really.

in the woods

2009-04-19T16:50:00.006+09:30

I've been on a little adventure over Easter & am back to the studio this week, inspired by all the lovely peeps I met & places I visited in country Victoria & Melbourne. Here's a medley of rustic Australiana shots for ya!
ps Highlights of the trip included a siting of a smock & sandal wearing Peter "G'day" Russell "G'day" Clark in Woodend.

where the wild things are

2009-04-03T11:07:00.004+10:30

OMG, I cannot wait to see this film It looks, feels, sounds so beautiful. Such an imaginative interpretation of one of the most beloved books of my childhood. I think I feel a tear welling in my eye... Spike Jonze you rock my world.

mushroom boutique

2009-03-25T13:25:00.010+10:30

Late last year I had a wonderful time designing the Mushroom Boutique identity for Mel Rush. So just thought I would share a few pics. You can find Mushroom on the friendliest street of Croydon, the artiest area in Adelaide... Be sure to pop in & say hi if you're in the hood! Sweet dresses & jellie sandals aplenty will be waiting.

Frankie

2009-03-17T14:14:00.004+10:30

Thanks to the peeps at Frankie mag for a very sweet little mention in the latest issue!

drawing

2009-03-05T09:38:00.009+10:30

It's a funny thing that whenever my rational side takes over I become uber efficient and task orientated at running my business. Then I get stressed. Anxious. Basically a psycho. And wonder why I'm running a creative business. And I almost always forget that the best way to relax and my favourite thing to do is draw. For no reason other than the pleasure of it. Not for a client or a project. Just for me. Selfish? Yep. But it does the trick. Makes the ideas start floating around my mind. Yesterday I drew with a proper 2B pencil, not a technical pencil and it was so liberating. I know I should get out more. But seriously.

custom illustration

2009-02-26T09:55:00.009+10:30

Just thought I would share the results of a creative project I've been working on for a couple of months now...
This is custom designed piece of artwork for a lovely little girl & her mumma & papa which illustrates a super sweet poem about her name. The piece is quite large in real life, so the poem is more legible - but you get the idea. Thanks Cate & Eddie!

old movies

2009-02-19T18:17:00.006+10:30

Barbara Streisand is not my cup of tea. Or so I thought until I stumbled upon the 70's film The Way We Were. Muchos cute fashions & hairstyles. I couldn't work out whether the film was set in the 70's or the 40's for ages, I guess because the costume design was influeneced by the 70's. Wish I could find more images of her outfits in colour...