ISSUE 16
BIG INK
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from the editor
Sitting down to write this 'editors' letter has proven to be somewhat difficult. What am I even meant to write? What to people what to know? This is my first time, as apparently I am an editor now? How did this even happen? I want to take a brief moment to thank my mentor and past editor Samara Gentle who never stopped believing in me. Her belief was encouraging and I wouldn’t be where I am today without our friendship and the wealth of knowledge that she passed on to me during our time together. Over the years Big Ink has become my baby, my passion project, my love. I have put countless amount of hours to help grow our community and direction of the magazine. This isn’t something that is going to change. I want to grow Big Ink and I want for it to become a place for the Canberra creative community to inspire and be inspired by the many talented people, places and businesses around us. In the coming months you are going to see a few changes emerging in the Big Ink community and something that has not been seen in the Canberra scene yet. I cant wait to share what we have in store but for now sit back, relax and enjoy this amazing issue we have put together. Nothing but big things to come from BIG INK this year!
Image Credits @Deejay Jukic
Lots of love,
Social media @biginkmagazine contactus@thebigink.com.au
PS. I'm known for my curly hair so thought it was only fitting to show it in my picture! 3
editorial editorial team team Founder CEO & Editorial Director Samara Gentle Samara Gentle Editor Sub-Editor Jessica Jessica Di Di Scipio Scipio Social Writer Media Manager Bethany Hugg Lucy Dingwall Writers Lucy Dingwall Samara Gentle Angie Lu Jessica Rolfe
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Contents from the editor
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next stop feminism
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the great escape
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fashion highlight
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through the looking glass
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it's only madness
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browlab 8
top five galleries
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behind the masks
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devojka 10
oasis 30
hector lagunas
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cover
enquiries
Concept and Styling Jessica Di Scipio
General
Photographer Samuel Broomby
Advertising
Model Olivia Mennie of HAUS Models Makeup Telisa Peizley from Browlab Clothing Nadia Nardi and Stylists own
contactus@thebigink.com.au
advertising@thebigink.com.au All content is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the Editor. Opinions represented in Big Ink are not necessarily those of the Editor.
Accessories Designer Op Shop
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fashion highlight Be bold, be brave, support local
Article by Jessica Di Scipio
and a perfect layer to any winter outfit.
Winter is coming and Faux Fur seems to be the thing keeping us warm this season.
Ida Faux Fur was born in the autumn of 2015. The name, Ida, represents the designer and her biggest supporters, her family. I is for India (the designer) D is for Denis (her husband) and A for Ari (Her Son).
Canberra winter is anything from cozy. The days are short, the air is frosty and the social scene drops out for a moment. We all go into hibernation, this doesn’t need to happen. We need to learn to embrace the crisp winter chill and dress to match what we can't seem to bare. Layers are always key no doubt about it. Successful layers have many elements that have been put together with intent and purpose to create a complete look. It is more than throwing a singlet on under a jumper. Good layers add depth to an outfit. Adding a vest under a coat and a scarf on top will add length and texture. Texture is a great element to utilise in winter. Think oversized knitted weaves, faux fur, tweed, leather and shaggy coats. They all have their own unique appearance that adds character to an outfit. Ida Faux Fur, a Canberra based label, has uncovered a niche that many people were unaware about; Fur scarfs and shawls. These babies are perfect for a Canberra winter. We understand that faux fur isn’t for everyone but these accessories are dramatic, extravagant
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India studied Fashion Design at the acclaimed Whitehouse Institute of Design in Sydney. At the age of twenty one she brought her very first Faux Fur jacket. "It was an orangutan colour and wasn't particularly soft. But when I put it on I felt strong, feminine and glamorous. I developed an obsession with faux fur because of the way it empowered me." This feeling is what created her love for faux fur and wanting to bring this glamour into everyone’s life, thus, Ida Faux Fur was established. As a small business owner and lover for high quality products and supporting local, India ensures that only the best is produced. Sourcing material from Australia the faux fur is so soft it is often mistaken for the real deal. Once the material is sourced she then gets the collection manufactured right here, in Canberra. This season is a true representation of the designer and her personal style which is anything but boring.
"I love and wear each and every piece in the collection. AW16 is timeless and effortless." Says India. India designs with longevity and the consumers in mind. Each piece can be worn year after year and is not something that needs to be tossed at the end of the season. When buying a fur piece it is imperative to invest in one that suits you and your life style, as it will be a part of your wardrobe for years to come. Look at getting a colour that blends in with the colour palette that is currently present in your wardrobe. As well as this, consider the style of the scarf and what you want to achieve when wearing it. Is it going to be worn as a layer or a statement piece on its own? India, the faux fur wearing expert incorporates her designs in her everyday life "I think glamour and effortlessness go hand in hand. Simple clothes are best and beautiful accessories are a must. Ida is incredibly versatile. It can literally be worn with anything from gym gear to street wear to formal wear." Canberra, your answer is here, the perfect winter accessory...Ida Faux Fur.
Now available at Rebel Muse www.idafauxfur.com
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browlab stylish brows in a stylish place
Article by Lucy Dingwall Browlab in Braddon is a living, breathing installation exulting beauty, in its purpose and its interior.
Run by brow experts Sianne Fitzsimons and Tegan Daley this ever increasingly popular space can be found in the social hub, Braddon. The promise of more stylish brows could not be delivered in a more suitable and stylish environment, reflecting and exploring the business’ effortlessly fresh, modern and individualised vibe.
are utilising interior design for not just use, but for first impression and expression. The colour white also plays into the titular ‘lab’ motif which is extended in use of laboratory accessories such as the conical flasks being used as containers, genius right? The use of scientific lab equipment was an incredibly popular trend of 2015 that no one saw coming, but the unique mixture of science and design had a great urbanised market that Browlab uses in a very sneaky way as they do their brow magic/science. Which depicts a lady wearing a flower
The space is relaxed yet defined. By incorporating some modern and natural interior trends with a unique harmonious control. Browlabs space is an exciting example of the pioneering ways in which Canberra’s spaces
crown, mixing magentas, pastel green/ blues and black to create Browlabs Frida.. This feature piece invites and establishes the themes of femininity, beauty and celebration of individuality that this first impression bleeds out into the overall design, and business. On the other hand the second art piece, a framed painting of a woman with The mixture of minimalist and natural elements takes the space away from forced modern chic and into a more playful and relaxed environment. An example of this is a stunning wall art piece at the top of the stairs by Jess Cochrane.
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warm neutrals, contrasts the colours and still acts as a thematic and colour focal point for the entry room. These art pieces also compliment their spaces; floral cushions and indoor plants and floor displays matching the purples and and the wooden accents to the art work.
The space, like most, definition and spark comes from the tiny details complimenting the whole picture. The contrasting of textures and shape is the greatest strength, with wood and old crate furniture adorned with white Hollywood luxe fur throws, or a circular print cushion This duality between textures creates depth and interest, you want to sit, and you want to touch. It also isn’t bad for Instagram pictures, as contrasting is one of the most popular designer techniques because of the soft aesthetic it creates which is very visually pleasing.
Further the use of indoor plants, in sleek white ceramic pots hanging from knotted rope extends the use of contrasting textures but also adds dark green into the colour palette that highlights the natural beauty the store is all about.
Hanging pot plants have always been popular in interior design, however the use of them at different levels works a nice balance into the staircase beside it, and uses the whole space at a three dimensional level. Other accents such as white paint pops on stools or word blocks on containers add personality and quirkiness. The effect of these details invites the clients in, and shows a playfulness in the design through eclectic and careful picking of accessories. Like a good brow, Browlabs interior design flatters the natural beauty of the space, defining and drawing the eye to stunning focal points. If you need schooling on all things style and effortless beauty, Browlab is the place to go.
Image credits: O Photography
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devojka a modelling agency
Photography Tina Nikolovski Concept and Styling Jessica Di Scipio Models Adam, Ashleigh, Kadee and Samantha of Devojka Models Makeup Dove MUA and Lesley Johnston MUA Hair Biljana Popovska (Anton's Hair Studio) Clothing The Label and Oxford
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an interview inspired by what the future holds
Interview by Jessica Di Scipio To succeed in the creative industry you have to be in a big city, that’s the only way you are going to move forward in your career. Well that’s what we have been conditioned to think whilst growing up in our little big city, Canberra.
This is no longer the case. We see the creative industry booming and Tina Nikolovski, founder and director of Devojka Models, is proving that we can achieve what we set our heart on, wherever we are. The Canberra creative scene has seen a shift in recent years, with creative hubs, pop ups and events developing a cult following for the creative industry. The entrepreneurial spirit in Canberra is unlike any other; we have created a community who constantly supports the passion and energy of one another. More people are creating their own path and definition of success and like Devojka Models it has evolved and grown quite organically. Devojka is challenging the norms and becoming a platform for models and talent to achieve their goals in Canberra. What is the meaning behind Devojka? “Devojka is a Slavic word – meaning young, beautiful girl. When naming the agency I wanted to utilise a word that was not used for another agency – anywhere else in the world. As most people don’t know what Devojka means, it instantly sparks interest and curiosity.” What inspired you to start Devojka Models? “I felt that there was a gap in the industry that needed to be filled. I found myself placing models and developing networks well
before I started Devojka Models. Therefore the transition to being an agent was quite smooth with a wealth of knowledge and experience behind me.” What makes Devojka different to other agencies? Founder Tina Nikolovski, has worked in the industry for over eight years as a fashion photographer. This experience provides an uncommon and unique perspective as an agent, setting the agency apart from the norm in the industry. “There are two categories – models in development, and experienced models. I know all of my models personally and have worked with them in various settings. I have taken the time to come to know their strengths, various abilities and aspirations. I believe that every single one of them can build on strength-to-strength and the right mindset to really make it in this industry. We work as a team, eliminating the barriers between ‘agent’ and ‘model’ and focusing on open communication, as well as intent, professionalism and skill development. So to sum it up, Devojka Models is unique in it’s definitive intent to not only provide professional modelling services, but in its aim to strip away negative labels, superficiality and encourage varying skills and individuality. Devojka is also a boutique agency - so the number of models is always capped, to ensure that the models are looked after and the client does not get overwhelmed.“
beginning, I see great things for Devojka Models. Our aim is to continue developing and broadening our networks in Canberra and surrounding areas, and then, the sky is the limit.” What would your advice be to new models in Canberra? “To anyone who is looking to start in a new industry, I would ask you the same question. What is the WHY behind what you want to do? Once you establish intent, here is my advice to you: Open your eyes to the world of fashion photography. Research current and past editorials and study the poses, movements and expressions of the models. Then practice in front of the mirror and learn your most flattering poses with your body shape. Once you understand how to work with your body and start to feel confident, get yourself out there! Join Facebook groups and offer to model, but be clear that you are new, and practice on set with teams who are also building their portfolios. It is also a great idea to get in contact with experienced photographers who have the ability to not only photograph your portfolio, but also coach you one-onone on set. This will ensure that you begin to develop your skills in modelling, gain confidence in the industry and a strong professional portfolio at the same time.”
Where do you see the agency going? “Since launching Devojka Models in July 2015, the response has been overwhelming. We have kicked in our first 8 months with approximately 35 placements and counting, in areas including photographic, promotional, runway and workshops. Given this incredible
F | facebook.com/devojkamodels IG | @devojkamodels
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next stop feminism the topic of the moment
Article by Angie Lu Society ought to be congratulated; feminism has finally become an issue worth talking about. Campaigns for women's rights have highlighted systematic and social inequalities.
Prolonged and continuous awareness have thrust women's issues onto a global stage. Global causes such as International Women's Day and the UN's HeForShe Campaign have reached the eyes and ears of millions. And yet, we still have countless men and women reluctant to proclaim themselves feminists. Some say that it’s because of the negative connotations associated with the word. Not all females appreciate feminism's 'bra-burning-angry-woman'
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association. Not all males appreciate the feminist 'giving-women-preferenceover-men' mindset. This attitude, whilst misinformed, is not unfounded. The word 'feminism' itself implies a largely female priority. That's not the issue. Achieving equality has to come by empowering the oppressed group, which unfortunately, happen to be female. If the opposite had been true, perhaps we'd have 'maleism' in place of 'feminism'. But in our day and age, the word and cause is undoubtedly feminism. Thus, feminism is certainly not when men think "Men are more important than women” nor is it when women think "Women are more important than men". Feminism should be when both men and women acknowledge that "We are equally important as each other"
Because we all have every potential to contribute meaning to one another’s lives, it’s from this understanding we implore equal dignity and respect for everyone. As such, feminism is just a nuanced understanding of intrinsic human value and principle. Women were not made inherently inferior. Rather, society historically labelled women to be instrumentally inferior. A larger man could plough the fields faster than a woman. In comparison, only a woman could breast feed a newborn and look after the kids. Fast-forward to the 21st century and pushing some buttons operates a harvesting machine and babies can now be bottle-fed. In countless ways, gender has now become irrelevant to a person's instrumentality and value as a result of technology.
What now remains an issue is empowering men and women to pursue ambitions that conflict with gendered norms initially created by biological limitations. Whilst gender stereotypes are not exclusive to women, it's arbitrary to argue we don't live in a patriarchal society. The gender pay gap is real. There are more male than female politicians in parliament. There are more male than female CEOs. It’s even proven that global domestic productivity is severely inhibited by not harnessing the talents and potential of women throughout a more gender balanced workforce. But to create a more gender-balanced workforce, more women are simply needed in fields dominated by men. Key to uprooting this entrenched societal
norm is by empowering women with self-belief and ambition to overcome any obstacle, particularly gender bias. Identify any marginally successful woman and you’ll find their gender was not an excuse to fail or reason for special privileges. They relied upon their own hard work and resilience to succeed in their chosen fields. And whilst harder for women because of historical precedents, it is passion and drive that helped them to disregard gender bias and focus on achieving their goals. What’s more, their value is based on their contribution to society. Gender, whilst integral to identity, is by no means the reason one should succeed or fail. Or be the reason a person should not be able to contribute to society to their highest potential.
So let’s consider gender inequality a hiccup in the road. If we arm women with self-determination and ensure equal opportunity, there is nothing to stop a woman from reaching her desired destination, even if it was paths previously only tread by men. Their success paves the way for other women to follow in their footsteps and succeed also. It’s through this enormous, collective effort we are well and truly on the way to creating a more equitable workforce and society. Apply this theory to a necessary male counterpart and the result is no different but equally as good. And so, ladies and gentlemen, next stop; feminism.
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through the looking glass beholds a devine beauty
Concept and Styling Jessica Di Scipio Photography Samuel Broomby Model Olivia Mennie of HAUS Models Makeup Telisa Peizley from Browlab Clothing Nadia Nardi and Stylists own Accessories from Designer Op Shop
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top five galleries Canberra art scene
Article by Samara Gentle
Canberra Contemporary Art Space
The Canberra art scene is proving to be anything but boring.
Emerging, established and local talent are turning up the heat and showing us what they are made off. With new exhibitions and pop-ups constantly seeing change it is time to indulge in the Canberra art scene. We have done just that and wrapped up some of the best places to see contemporary art in Canberra.
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CCAS has three locations across Canberra, in Manuka, Braddon and the City Centre. I’ve always been a lover of contemporary art and CCAS has exhibitions of local, national and international artists in the contemporary art space. The CCAS has been around since the 80's and prides itself in developing artists careers. I’ve never seen an exhibition there I didn’t like. This is the perfect gallery for visitors to discover Canberras variety of artistic expressions.
ANU School of Art Gallery There’s nothing like supporting local students who are just starting out in their artistic careers. The rules are broken and each time I visit I’m amazed at what they create. The School of Art hosts a program of public lectures including visiting speakers twice weekly during the semester. The best time to visit is during the end of year graduate show. It boasts a variety of works and at extremely affordable prices. It is the perfect opportunity to support Canberra’s local talent.
Burrunju Art Gallery
PhotoAccess
Beaver Galleries
Burrunju Art Gallery is a not-for-profit organisation that specialises in authentic hand-made Aboriginal arts. They have a variety of traditional and contemporary art to view.
PhotoAccess is an ideal place for people to see, appreciate and learn about art. It is a community where you can make and exhibit contemporary photo-based art.
You get a chance to speak to the staff and learn about the artist and their personal stories. You also know that the money you spend goes back to the artist at this gallery.
The exhibitions are often changing, showcasing a vast variety of local talent. They offer single day and weekend courses in digital and film photography, including darkroom processing in a black-and-white darkroom for people of all skills levels and backgrounds.
Beaver Galleries is Canberra's largest privately owned commercial gallery. This well established and highly regarded gallery features outstanding pieces by contemporary Australian artists. Works include painting, sculpture, print making, ceramics and glass.
If you’d like to dabble in the art they also run dot painting workshops to try your hand at.
The courtyard sculpture garden is a real treat and you should definitely make the visit over lunch and visit the Pallette Cafe.
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oasis a day by the pool
Concept and Styling Jessica Rolfe Photography and Creative Direction Jessica HM Photography Models Simone Luker, Rebecca Courtney of Devojka Models, Ilana Davies HAUS Models and Lincoln Magee Hair Anna Markovic Makeup Erin Pittard
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the great escape the hidden gems along the coast line
Article by Samara Gentle For most Canberrans a beach getaway usually involves a long drive down the Clyde towards Bateman’s Bay and beyond.
Most long weekends the Bay is overrun with hipsters from the Capital taking in a weekend of salt water and beach vibes. Unknown to many is another gem known as the Sapphire Coast. While the trip may be longer and an even more treacherous mountain road involved, it’s well worth the extra hour drive. The Yuin People were the first to harvest and share oysters from the Merimbula area which now farms around 3% of
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New South Wales Sydney rock oysters. This small town of 18,000 offers beach views, sea breezes and it’s resident fur seal which calls the Merimbula Causeway home. A stroll along the Merimbula Marina will take you from holiday apartments to it’s bustling town centre with boutiques, bookshops and surf shops a plenty. You’ll make friends with pelicans and seagulls along the way, waiting for fisherman to return with the day's spoils Within driving distance is Pambula and Tura Beach with it’s own assortment of antique shops and cafes. Pop into the Merimbula Plaza and you’ll be surprised to find on trend boutiques filled with on trend fashion, home wares and beauty.
In particular Enhance U is a locally run boutique with high end fashion and statement home wares, you’ll find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip. The Waterfront Cafe is on the must list for a decadent breakfast with beautiful views. Treat yourself to their world class eggs benedict. For something a little more adult friendly in the evening the Aquarium and Wharf Restaurant has a romantic vibe. As the sun goes down take in the breathtaking view and a glass of local merlot. Merimbula is the beach without all the Canberrans...
A boutique fully equipped pilates studio in Wright
Services Private Classes Circuit Classes Rehabilitation and Pre-pointe assessments for Dancers Bootybarre...Coming soon! W www.elysiumstudiopilates.com.au E elysiumstudiopilates@iinet.net.au M 0414 920 401
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it's only madness lets get lost in wonderland
Creative Director Jessica Rolfe Photography by Robert Coppa Makeup by Andrew Cannon Hair by Sibu Hair Styling by Jessica Rolfe Head wear by Andrew Cannon and Jessica Rolfe Designer The Label Models Rebbeca Courtney and Angelina Leljak of Devojka Models, Jessica Hargreaves McDonald, Jayde Nolan-Smith and Emily Tokic
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behind the masks it's only madness darling
Article by Jessica Di Scipio and interview by Jessica Rolfe
construction and translating a mental concept into a reality.
Have I gone mad? I am afraid so...You’re entirely bonkers but I will tell you a secret all of the best people are” – Alice In Wonderland.
His design process is fluid, falling into two different phases of creation: natural and evolutionary or planned and structured. Ultimately both lead towards a framework of creativity.
A world that is a little crazy, a little chaotic but evokes a unique beauty like no other. Designer Andrew James and Stylist Jessica Rolfe came together to expand on this realm through Millinery. Drawing inspiration from the animal characters from the Disney’s 1956 movie interpretation of Lewis Carrolls – Alice in Wonderland. The idea of the collection grew quite organically with the desire to create and collaborate. Andrew comes from a background in Millinery, studying at TAFE in Sydney. How he got there? His inquisitive self, his need to create and to do so with his hands. He loves the free form creativity of millinery, the
The Madness Collection saw a meticulous, collaborative planning stage. “When collaborating with another artist, particularly when it relates to complimenting millinery with clothing design, my approach can be more structured. I develop a map of construction, a storyboard of the millinery journey. It is different each time and may commence with a list of words, which represent the journey ahead; swatches of colour or fabrics, translations of sketches from mind to paper, cut outs of images that have inspired. This method is meticulous, thoughtful, logical and measured.” Andrew discussed.
The collection is made up of seven dramatic headpieces. Each was approached slightly differently taking into account texture, size, colouring, height and weight. Many prototypes were created and some morphed into the final product. Using a myriad of interesting fabrics and textured materials is what makes this collection so unique and exciting. Fabrics such as tiger grass; which was used to create the feature headpiece, the walrus. Decks and decks of cards were folded, manipulated and sewn together for the hedgehog. This was the most prototyped and remade headpiece from the collection. The white rabbit used many wigs and masks to create. The textures and materials seen throughout the collection are other worldly, evoking the idea of wonderland. A place you want to get lost in, a place where you go a little mad but a place with a rare beauty.
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www.browlab.com.au
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Image credit: O Photography
A co-working space
Braddon
Based in the heart of dynamic Lonsdale Street Braddon, we’re moments from Civic. Prices starting from $25 for a hot seat! Contact us today to become apart of our co-working community.
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hector lagunas Fashion through art. Inspired by Alex Perry an Australian fashion Designer
Illustrations by Hector Lagunas @hector_lagunas_illustrator
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are you a writer? we want to hear from you
Big Ink Magazine is currently looking for writers to contribute articles, if you enjoy writing we want to hear from you!
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We love articles on a variety of topics from fashion, art, culture, food, current events and opinion pieces.
For more information please contact us at submissions@thebigink.com.au
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