Profile: Soft Constructions

We would like to introduce our new 'profiles blogger', Alira Callaghan. Alira has a strong interest in supporting local artists, designers and creatives and she will be bringing you articles on talented local creatives. The subject of her first profile is Seonaidh Murphy’s Soft Constructions.

What sort of things does Soft Constructions encompass? 
Soft Constructions is a Perth based illustration and design studio focused on creating unique, original and playful designs and products for their customers and clients. I use popular culture as inspiration and then utilise both hand worked and digital techniques (combined with a twist of humour) to create designs that can find themselves on any number of products.  There is a retail side to the business as well as a design side that is more focused on creating custom designs and products for clients such as menus, uniforms, logos etc.

I know you have a background in both art and design, what was it that attracted you to the textile side of design?I had always been involved in working with textiles.  Even at art school I did a lot of experimentation with textiles and sculpture.  I guess there is something about the tactility of it being able to be used to create 2d and 3d shapes.  I enjoy working between the two spheres of art and design because it gives me a creative outlet but I can still be business focused.

Can you briefly explain what is involved in your design process?
I do a bit of trend research and come up with some ideas.  Then I collect imagery and after that I start piecing together my designs.  From there I start incorporating puns and drawing them and painting them as I see fit.  Next I scan the design in and do any digital alterations and edits to it and it gets made into whichever product it needs to be.
 

Images courtesy of Soft Constructions

Does Soft Constructions offer you a creative outlet that is different to when you have done work in the fashion industry?
Definitely.  Soft Constructions allows me to utilize more of my skills and gives me the freedom to cross over into multiple disciplines.  I also get to indulge in my illustration skills, which is great!

A lot of your designs incorporate humour, have you always enjoyed the pun game or did that come through developing your practice?
I’ve always had a bit of a sense of humour.  Some people enjoy it and some people don’t, it wasn’t always very well received when I was in art school.  I feel like I have the ability to switch between serious and funny though and know the circumstances in which to use my comedic devices. 

What is your favourite aspect of your work for Soft Constructions? 
My favourite aspect is constantly growing the business into new and exciting places.  As I grow more opportunities come up and I really enjoy the challenge of being faced with new problems to solve.

Do you try to source your materials and services locally?
I try to source as much locally as I can and if I can’t source it locally I use Australian suppliers.  It can be hard but I seem to be able to make it work at the moment.

Images courtesy of Soft Constructions

How important has it been to the success of Soft Constructions to have support from the community and likeminded people?
It has been really important.  Being able to be inspired by the people around you gives you the strength to grow and flourish as a business.  I love being around people that are as excited as I am to make a difference and create unique and successful businesses.

What project/s are you currently working on?
I have lots of little things in the works.  I have a few custom products with local businesses that I’ll be able to let you in on soon.  I also have plans to grow the business into a very exciting place next year but I can’t say too much.

Where can we find your designs and products?
You can find our products at www.softconstructions.com and in:
Sugar and Nice, Inglewood        The Little Cheese Shop, Bayswater
Common Ground, Fremantle      Kakulas Sister, Fremantle
The Tenth State, Nedlands         Perth Upmarket

And soon to be in: 
Compendium, Fremantle       Addison and Steele, North Perth
Beehive, Fremantle


Alira Callaghan

52 Week Illustration Challenge exhibition

The 52 Week Illustration Challenge commenced in January 2014 with children’s author, Tania McCartney, challenging herself to produce an image per week for 52 weeks. The challenge has since grown to a Facebook group with more than 1800 members from across the globe contributing images on a weekly basis. Themes range from selfies to sandcastles and provide artists with a subject, whilst leaving the creative execution to them. 
The exhibition features one carefully selected piece from each of the 52 themes in 2014. Range of art include: sketches, oil paintings, watercolour and acrylic, coloured pencil, collage, printing (ie collagraphs and gelatine prints) varied digital art, stippling, crosshatching, ink work, line work, clay work, 3D paper crafting, dioramas and even food creations.

This exhibition will be on display from Monday 9 until Friday 27 March 2015 at Brookfield Place, 125 St Georges Tce, Perth, 7am - 7pm.

Books From Your Backyard

Come and listen to your favourite children’s book authors and illustrators read, perform and create drawings before your eyes! 

Twelve different creators from SCBWI Australia West (the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) will present at this family fun day in 30 minute timeslots. Listen to one or stay for all twelve! You will be amazed by the local talent that we have in Western Australia. 

Books will be for sale in the State Library Shop and all sessions will be followed by book signings at the signing table. There will also be an activity table where children not attending sessions can participate in a range of book-themed craft activities under parental supervision.

All sessions are free! See the website for session details.

Date/Time
: Sat 10th Jan, 
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: 
State Library of WA, 
25 Francis St, Northbridge

Made on the Left stallholders - ART

This week, we're going to take a look at all the stallholders who will be at our July 27, 2014 market, starting with ART.

1. Natasha Muhl 
2. The Little Press 
3. Made 4 You 
4. Shopgirl in Print 
5. Jacquie Hughes 
6. Tristan Coleman
7. Tankateo 
8. Bron's Ceramics 
9. Paper Mountain - Jenni Gray 
10. Paper Mountain - Grace McKie 
11. Paper Mountain - Kat Scarff 
12. Blue Lawn Designs 
13. Paper Mountain - Alina Tang 
14. m3 idea 
15. Mermaid's Coin 

Illustrators wanted

Urban Walkabout has an excellent opportunity for a freelance illustrator to create artworks for their publications.

Urban Walkabout is a well established and growing publishing business that promotes outstanding labels and independent retailers, galleries, cafes and restaurants in urban villages using maps through print publications, web and mobile technologies. The business’ core focus is fashion, design, art, food and lifestyle.



They are looking for:

• Freelance artists and illustrators for the creation of artworks for the Urban Walkabout Perth Guide covers
• Minimum 4 original artworks created for the Perth guide series, to be developed with the Director.
• Artworks to be created and supplied according to a production schedule in advance of publication.

Please send through expressions of interest with a resume and sample of your work to Katrina Adams - opportunities@urbanwalkabout.com.

Letterpress Art Competition

Whiteman Park Print Shop has celebrated the craftsmanship of traditional letterpress printing since 1988. For their 25th anniversary, they want to invite everyone - Perth artists, illustrators, graphic designers, typographers, printmakers and enthusiasts - to take part in a juried art exhibition titled "My Perth". 
The jury panel will be selecting 20 artworks to be letterpress printed on 300gsm cotton stock. Print editions will be limited to 50 copies each and will be exhibited and on sale in late 2013. The selected artists will receive 20 copies of their own letterpress printed artwork. Deadline for artwork submission: 31 August 2013 via email. 

The exhibition will be held at Whiteman Park Print Shop with a grand opening gala on Sunday 17 November and will run until Sunday 24 November. 

Any competition queries regarding artwork guidelines for letterpress printing please email contact@wpprint.com.au (Please note in subject line "Competition Enquiry") or visit their website for artwork submission guidelines. 

Stallholder Profile: Spotlight on "Little Mo and Friends"

Little Mo and Friends was the winner of our Best Stall Display for our November 2012 market. Not only did Helena win us over with her display, she also makes the sweetest things for young and old! Let's go behind the scenes...

Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m Helena, creator/illustrator of Little Mo and Friends.

What materials do you use?
Ink and paper mostly when I’m drawing. And if I am making products from my art, I like sourcing out recycled paper and vintage art frames or vintage pendants to frame my drawings.



What steps do you take to prepare for a market?
I try to at least have two or three new products to feature in my market, just to make it exciting for my return customers. When I style my stall, I usually make that new product my feature piece.



What is your favourite part of the creative process?
Getting lost in my drawings and observing my rough sketches evolve into physical products that are worn and cherished by my customers.

What’s been your most popular item or line to date?
For my online shop it’s been my mystery bag. If you’re unsure of what to buy in my shop, grab a mystery bag and I’ll fill it with art goodies; prints, notebooks and jewellery. When I first listed it in in my shop, my husband said nobody is going to buy it because they don’t know what’s inside it. But it’s been my most popular item, so I guess people do like surprises!

For my markets, it’s my illustrated jewellery. I think it’s an affordable way to collect my art and wear it everyday!



What is the most exciting thing that has come out of selling your designs through markets?
Meeting my online customers in person and meeting new friends and new customers! I’m always so grateful for their support and encouragement.



What advice would you give someone who wants to sell their crafts?
Make something totally unique and all about you. Don’t copy. Be original.



What goals do you have in store for the future?
Drawing and producing more artworks, drawing a book and having a small exhibition would be nice.

www.littlemoandfriends.com

www.facebook.com/littlemoandfriends

Creative Short Courses at Central

There are over 35 exciting workshops in art, fashion, jewellery, textiles & design technology starting August, 2012. Places are limited and on a first in first serve basis, full payment required to confirm place. Enrolments are closing soon so apply now!


Courses include:
Urban Art - Use a brush/roller to create street art graffiti-style images. Larger pieces and stencils will be used and applied with a sponge/roller.


Tattoo Design & Illustration - Learn how to design tattoo illustrations, that are thoughtful and look amazing with the curves and shape of the body.


Repairing Furniture: what's old is new again - Gain the skills and knowledge to save and give new life to furniture which has been damaged or is getting a little wobbly.

Bag It: Designer Printed Bags - Sew a bag and screen print it with a design of your own.

Corsetry Design & Production - Learn how to construct a boned and underwired corset.

For more information about the courses, visit the website and download the schedule and enrolment form and scan and reply to enquiry.art@central.wa.edu.au or fax to 9427 1973. 

Curvy 8 Submissions open now!

The Curvy series of books features the work of the world’s leading female artists and illustrators. They're now up to issue 8 and you could be a part of it! If you’re an established or aspiring female artist or illustrator and you’re looking to have your work seen by an inspired audience around the globe, then get busy! You don't have long to get your best work ready as submissions close at 5pm sharp (AEST) on Friday Feb 17th.
See the Curvy website for more information.

City of Stirling Networking Evening

Date: Wednesday 7 December 2011

Venue: Alexander Park Craft House – Clyde Road Menora

Time: 7.00pm – 9.00pm

Speakers: James Foley and Norman Jorgensen

RSVP: Monday 5 December 2011 by email or phone (9345 8521)

James is a children’s book author who recently illustrated his first book “The Last Viking” with author Norman Jorgensen. James and Norman will discuss some of their own projects, how they came to be working together and the rewarding process of creating a children’s picture book and seeing it published. The talk will be followed by refreshments and a chance to chat informally to other artists living in and around the City of Stirling.

Designer Speed Dating

Are you a recent graduate wanting to step into the design industry in Perth? Make the most of this rare opportunity to meet Perth's design professionals, all in the one room at the one time, and get the inside story on finding the right job for you in this town.

This two-part event at the Fremantle Arts Centre features a presentation by four designers at different stages of their career, sharing their experiences and giving valuable advice.

The second 'designer speed dating' part allows you to introduce yourself to four or so designers in ten minute, one-on-one chats. A great opportunity to show your folio and get feedback, ask all those questions you have and gain a little insight into the industry.

Presenters:

• Dan Elliot and Henry Luong from Organ Studio, 2008 Curtin Uni graduates at the beginning of their careers.
• Michelle Leslie from Studio Bomba and Mitchell & Dent, a web designer of 8 years experience who has shaped her career with additional study to gain experience in illustration, packaging and print design.
• John Emery from REB Design, owner director of one of Perth's most prominent studios, designer and employer of designers.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
When: 30th January 2011
Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm 

Where: Fremantle Arts Centre

Bookings are essential. E-mail wa@agda.com.au to register and pay at the door.
When registering, please provide information about your area/s of study or interest (eg advertising, brand design, illustration, packaging, print, publications/books, web, etc).

$15 AGDA members / $25 non members

For more information, see http://events.agda.com.au/calendar/555/designer-speed-dating


Update:
There has been an overwhelming response to the Designer Speed Dating event and most of the speed dating places are now reserved, so we've made it possible to attend just the presentation part of the day (1pm-2pm). AGDA members: $5. Non members: $15. E-mail wa@agda.com.au to book.

Opportunity for Illustrators

Be part of Illustrative in Berlin!

Applications for Illustrative 2011 can now be submitted.

In May 2011, the 6th Illustrative- the leading international festival for contemporary illustration and graphic arts, will take place in Berlin again. Artists from all over the world can now apply for the festival: Until October 22nd, 2010 they can submit works in order to be considered for the Swatch Young Illustrators Award.

On November 5th, 2010 the nominees will be awarded in advance and invited to the “Illustrators Night”, a celebration at Direktorenhaus in Berlin.

The Swatch Young Illustrators Award is an unique competition awarding creativity and innovation in personal contemporary illustration and graphics. The award encourages and supports designers in their artistic practice and offers an international and worldwide recognized platform for them. In three categories, illustrative art works, art projects with graphic influences, animations, installations and book art objects qualify for submission.

A jury, consisting of international art directors, well-known illustrators and publishers, will nominate artists in each category in October 2010. At Direktorenhaus in Berlin, the “Illustrators Night” will take place on November 5th, where the nominations will be celebrated with an exhibition and a party.

The Swatch Young Illustrators Award offers the winners not only the opportunity to be part of Illustrative in May 2011 in Berlin. Also,there are prizes waiting worth 6.000 Euros, publications and agency agreements as well as the one-time opportunity to design a limited edition for Swatch.

For more information, check out www.illustrative.de and www.direktorenhaus.com

via Ali J's blog

Creepy Exhibition: You Just Have Your Eyes Closed

Shout it from the rooftops. Creepy (also known as White Square at Made On the Left) is having a huge exhibition, with 100 new artworks! We think that is crazy, we can't wait to see it!! Be sure to pop down and check it out.

Runs 13th August - September 11th
Turner Galleries, Perth - http://www.turnergalleries.com.au/

Our Ad in X-Press

Yes, I'm just like a proud mum, clipping everything from newspapers and pasting them in a big album which they pull out whenever their prodigy brings someone home for dinner.

Well done to Samantha for the art, and Ali for the finagelling/words.

click on the image to read the X-Press fashion magazine!

Something to Do : Kingbrown Launch

Awesome Australian illo's zine launch in awesome Australian indie retailer The Butcher Shop.

Oh, with awesome west Australian beer. Extra points!

Illustrator Publishing Opportunity - Yen Magazine

Hey Illustrators!

Just a quick note to let you know about this awesome opportunity to get published in the alternative womens mag YEN. They have guest illustrators do the doodles to accompany their articles, it'd look great in your folio!

Just email some examples of your work to swalters@yenmag.net (Sarah Walters).

Good Luck from Lauren & The Team

Megan Isabella's Pretty Paper Dolls

Hey guys, The Ginger Fox here. How many of you have fine memories of afternoons spent with scissors painstakingly following the lines to bring your paper dolls and their surrounding collections of clothing and darling accessories to life. Such simple fun as we 'fold here' to cover up our little ladies flower undies with a frilly summer dress. Its comforting to remember that a child doesnt need bells, whistles and batteries, just a hearty imagination and a fabulously drawn and dressed two dimensional dame.



Well now you can celebrate your fine flat females again as local Perth illustrator, Megan Isabella creates her own miriad of vintage inspired paper dolls. Swirly hair, rosy cheeks and toddler like cuteness, these little pieces of art are just too adorable. Take a wander through her blog and check out the inspiring collection of guys and dolls drawn from real people in her Paper Doll Project







Now this is not the only string to Miss Megans bow, just CLICK HERE and you can view her whole portfolio of whimsical, beautifullly rendered designs. If thats not all, Megan will then put on her teaching cap and share with her delighted readers the tips and tricks of life in Lessons with Miss Megan. I cant get enought of this gal!

xox THE GINGER FOX xox

Spanking New Poster :)

Well, the time has arrived... Poster time!

Here's a first look at our promotional material for the Christmas Market!

Please let us know what you think in the comments!

Infinite delights unleashed by local illustrator

Billions, Zillions and Trillions, the first solo exhibition of self-taught Perth artist Alexandra Lekias, is a romp through a vivid universe populated by doll-like mannequins captured in situations beyond their control and the disembodied hands that pull the strings.

Lekias’s chic but hollow characters are caught in actions that belie their stylish presentation. Streams of sugar gliders burst from pimples, party girls vomit a technicolour variety of whale breeds and hundreds of fainting couches trickle from a bleeding nose.

A strong sense of the ridiculous and bizarre pervades the black and white ink illustrations, which are illuminated with vivid splashes of watercolour in lolly-like hues. Rich in symbolism, the works draw on dreams, memories and the artist’s personal narrative to explore themes including childhood and an innocent fascination with bodily functions.

Lekias describes the main theme of the exhibition as the expression of a total loss of control.

“The characters I draw have no real will or power of their own, but act as narrative vehicles inhabiting a surreal, dream-like world”.

“They are subject to the normal bodily functions that we don't usually talk about and keep hidden behind the scenes, but with strange but beautiful twists.”

Lekias’ work also adorns album covers and promotional pieces for local band Sugar Army.

Billions, Zillions and Trillions, opens at 6.30pm Wednesday October 7 at the Cracked Gallery, Behind the Monkey and continues until Wednesday October 21.