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alcaino creative jessica singh gaffa gallery ink & spindle lauren becker
autumn 13
YOU ARE CONFINED ONLY BY THE WALLS YOU BUILD YOURSELF ANDREW MURPHY
MEET THE TEAM
EDITOR & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jessica Bartholomew jessica@fawnmag.com DEPUTY EDITOR Gaia Gardiner gaia@fawnmag.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Natalie Claire King MARKETING & WEBSITE COORDINATOR Calani Knight CONTRIBUTORS Claire Wallman, Seaneen Blair, Silke, Leah White, Casey Gore, Margie Curry, Lauren Becker, Ellie Hextall, Sophie Taylor, Amy Sartorel, Bronwyn Towsend, Bree Fry, Rosie Mossman. SPECIAL THANKS Lauren Becker, Ella Drayson, Jess Stewart, Gaffa Gallery, Stephanie Alcaino, Micaela Alcaino, Jessica Singh, Lara Cameron, Tegan Rose. ADVERTISE WITH FAWN jessica@fawnmag.com ENQUIRIES & SUBMISSIONS info@fawnmag.com FAWN MAGAZINE fawnmag.com MEET THE TEAM / 003
CONTENTS
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ON THE COVER photographer: bronwyn towsend hair and makeup: rosie mossman model: bree fry model wears: ella drayson fur and dress
fawn bits 006 autumn edit
028 fawn style flowerbeds
fawn loves 009 autumn edit
038 fawn style the lakehouse
fawn features 012 the flower growing from a footpath
fawn illustration 018 jessica singh fawn talks 024 alcaino creative
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048 fawn style into the fiery sun 058 fawn studios ink & spindle 064 fawn jobs lauren becker
THEN THERE WERE FOUR It’s been a very exciting season here at Fawn. Not only have we been working on our fourth issue (completing our very first year of Fawn issues), but our little team of two has now grown to four! When I first started Fawn over a year ago, having a team of two seemed quite substantial. However as Fawn has grown over the changing seasons it became clear to us that we would need to enlist the help of a few others to help take Fawn to the next level. This is where Nat and Calani enter the scene. After starting out with us as an online contributor, Nat consistantly impressed us with her quality content and an unwavering dedication to the Fawn brand. Nat has since been promoted to the position of Editorial Coordinator allowing her to unleash her amazing talent onto our magazine content. Calani started with us about a month ago and has been appointed to the newly created position of Marketing and Website Coordinator. With an impressive skill set and a passion for the creative scene, it became pretty clear to me that she was the perfect person for this role. With each girl bringing a unique set of skills and talent to the table, I honestly can’t wait to see where our new team will be able to take Fawn in 2013. Be prepared for a lot of exciting changes over the coming year. Lastly I just wanted to say how incredibly rad I think this issue is. Now I may be a little biased (ok maybe a lot biased), but I think you’ll agree with me once you flip through the issue and check out the talent of our featured creatives. I’d love to know what you think of the issue so don’t forget to pop on over to our Facebook or Twitter pages to let us know. See you next time! xx
Jess
FAWN BITS
MARCH
ADELAIDE FRINGE FESTIVAL h
15 FEB - 17 MAR 2013
An open-access arts festival which rivals no other is the Adelaide Fringe Festival - a flurry of cabaret, comedy, circus, dance, film, theatre, puppetry, music, visual arts and design. With that much creativity all at once, it’s no wonder Fringe takes over Adelaide. Feast your senses on over 900 events staged in apt pop-up venues like parks, warehouses and laneways. For independent artists, it’s an inspirational environment to showcase their work and audiences will be entertained by contemporary work in an atmosphere that is open to the concept of discovering something new. From 15th February to 17th March. adelaidefringe.com.au
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TASTE OF SYDNEY h
14 - 17 MAR 2013
ONE HIT WONDERS ART WORKSHOP h
12 FEB - 27 MAR 2013
This epicurian extravaganza held in Sydney’s beautiful Centennial Park will see the city’s top restaurants serve sample-sized plates of their signature dishes, which visitors gobble up with gusto and wash down with fine regional wines. At the Chef’s table, look out for renowned culinary masters who are there to chat and share their kitchen tips. Learn more about beer and wine in masterclasses, or simply enjoy a drink while listening to the sweet sound of live music. The cost for admission varies so check out their website for more details and happy eating and drinking!
Consider yourself artistic but can’t actually draw or paint? Relax, you are one of many young people who relies on the myriad of their other abilities to express creativity. Suffer in silence no more as One Hit Wonders comes to the rescue a one-off art workshop. For 15-26 year olds, the workshop is only $35 a session and you are practically given skills in claymation, sustainable book binding, fashion drawing, printmaking, stenciling and street art techniques and all materials are included. Warning, this will be a highly enjoyable experience no matter how ‘talented’ you are.
tasteofsydney.com.au
whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
FAWN BITS
APRIL
WICKED WOMAN EXHIBITION h
20 OCT - 26 MAY 2013
Showcasing award-winning artist Rosemary Valadon, this exhibition aptly named Wicked Women features portraits of contemporary women inspired by the colourful, sexy and kitsch art of the pulp fiction era. Valadon’s paintings both embrace and subvert the genre’s stereotypes – sexist becomes sexy. Each sitter chose a classic film poster or book cover featuring a female criminal and re-created the pose. Valadon then painted her own version of the original artwork, which she infused with the modern sitter’s personality. As well as portraits of notable actors, writers, lawyers and other professional women, Wicked Women will display associated drawings and photographs.
MERCEDES BENZ FASHION WEEK h
8 - 12 APR 2013
Yes folks, it’s rolling around again. The infamous Mercedes Benz Fashion Week without fail creates a commercially-fuelled buzz within the fashion industry and often nationwide and this year is no exception. Bridging the gap between those who create and those who buy, IMG represents the world’s top models, leading and the most influential photographers, art directors and stylists. On display will be the cream of the crop of Australia’s fashion industry so come on down for another year of beautiful madness! The venue has changed this year - Carriageworks will come to life from the 8th-12th April. australia.mbfashionweek.com
UP & COMERS FASHION MARKET h
2ND SATURDAY OF MONTH
The team at Fawn are eternally dedicated and enthused to uncover the raw creative talent this country has to offer, but we can’t do it all on our own - enter the Up & Comers Fashion Market in Melbourne. Think of it as a treasure trove of precious vintage and one-off finds, true Melbournian-style. And as part of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, enjoy the Spotlight Emerging Designer Exhibition with designers such as Eva Q, Retreasury, Yamila Guedez, El Amuleto and more. If you consider yourself the next big thing, why not hold your own stall of goodies? At just $85 for the day, you’d be mad not to! Held on the second Saturday of every month. upandcomersmarket.com.au
hht.net.au/whats_on
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MAY
ST IVES HANDMADE MARKET h
1ST SUNDAY OF MONTH
Relax and enjoy the atmosphere and energy of 250 stalls presenting quality handcrafts with no mass produced second hand or imported items. Wander around the stalls which have been handpicked to produce the most amazing array of products for the home and garden, family and friends, office, children and yourself, all of course handmade to the highest standard, from the classic to the contemporary in style and for everyday to special occasions. Buy top quality crafts with the assurance that it’s not only great value, but also an original – handcrafted right here in Australia. First Sunday of every month, 9am to 3pm, St Ives Showground. marketscentral.com.au
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KITEFEST CLONTARF h
18 - 19 MAY 2013
SEMI-PERMANENT SYDNEY h
24 - 25 MAY 2013
A bohemian playground for the light at heart, KiteFest is a unique and iconic display attracting an astounding 20,000 people who take the weekend to roam throughout hundreds of specialty arts and craft markets, gourmet food stalls, live aerobatic displays, amusement rides, and of course, kite displays and kite-making workshops. A stellar line-up of the world’s most renowned and successful kite flyers have been invited including the USA iQuad stunt team, Canada’s Ray Bethell and some of the best flyers from New Zealand and Australia, all with the backdrop of the stunning Clontarf shore.
Semi-Permanent, one of the most prolific creative platforms in the world, is coming back home to it’s birthplace - Sydney! From miniscule beginnings in 2003, it is now a presentation and exhibition pioneer, inspiring people from all cultures on a truly global scale. Semi-Permanent has embraced annual events hosted in New York, Wellington, London and Hong Kong and prides itself on making exciting and individual partnerships in it’s host countries. With plans to expand into the United States in 2013, it’s just the beginning of a lifetime of creative events for Semi-Permanent. Each event is a uniquely rich experience of industry inspiration you won’t forget.
redcliffe.net.au
semipermanent.com.au
FAWN LOVES
URBAN OUTFITTTERS TERRARIUM At Fawn we love anything that can brighten up a dull space, including living plants - the presence of which can bring concealed physiological and mental benefits. We also like anything different and a bit stylish. The Urban Outfitters Turning Triangle Terrarium is just that. And as if we couldn’t love Urban Outfitters anymore than we already do, they give us this little slice of nature in this eyecatching terrarium. We love it’s hanging ability and variety of shapes that would more than likely suit any living space you happen to dwell in...and make you happier. Just sayin’. urbanoutfitters.com
BLOGSHOP These days it seems like every man and his dog is into photo-editing through popular image websites and social media outlets. But we like Blogshop at Fawn, because they are a gateway drug to the mega monster of the editing world, known as Photoshop. Blogshop has traveled the world to put on sold-out workshops since creators Bri Emery and Angela Kohler first began teaching together in May 2011. They teach the basics from scratch, some more advanced techniques and then how to apply them with your own perspective to layouts that you will use when you go back to your own blog. So, what are you waiting for? iheartblogshop.com
CROSS STITCH IPHONE CASES Technology and craft meet in this ingenious little kit. Decorate your iPhone 5 case with vintage cross-stitch patterns, funky stripes, and even needlepoint designs in a flurry of traditional weaves to get the heart of any Nanna fluttering away in content. This kit comes with a gridded cross- stitch case, three colours of thread, a needle, and a booklet of designs. Get creative for a wonderful juxtaposition of the new and old. They make the perfect last minute gift for the creative in your life. Ready! Set! Stitch! purlsoho.com
WILL & CARO Springing from Finland and Australia, Carolyn Wong and William Du are self-taught origami artists (the best kind) who also grew up amongst creative types. As a little girl Carolyn would parade in wardrobes of delicate silk fabrics and the beautiful creations of her father. William developed his creative skills whilst drawing alongside his brothers who were also selftaught artists. Primarily working with washi (Japanese paper) Will and Caro create stunning art pieces with a story to tell. The focus is on the simplicity, purity and delicacy of working with paper, a dying art in itself. willandcaro.com FAWN LOVES / 009
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PINTEREST Everyone loves a good photo. But when you open the options to every single photo in the history of the universe (or close to), you’ve got a large following. Add the elements of online links to social media, mixed with making your own personal profile and carving out your name in the internet world, mixed with being just plain addictive and you’ve got a recipe for success. Can we get a photo of a homemade recipe and a inspirational quote on success to back me up? Yes, there’s about a million of them. A virtual pinboard of immense proportions. This is Pinterest. pinterest.com
L’OCCITANE ROSE 4 REINES There’s nothing in this world like a fragrance you adore. Not just adore... we’re talking about a fragrance you could smell all day everyday for the rest of your life...a fragrance you could live in. Bringing you the Loccitane Rose 4 Reines, a home perfume that transcends the standard for home perfumes - this will have you using any excuse to stay home. The exquisite and delicate aroma “takes you straight to the heart of the blossoming flower, kissed by the morning dew”. Not sold? It’s only $34 for 100mL! au.loccitane.com
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KEEP CUP We all know we should be aware of the environement and make the most of reusable cups in our everyday lives, but KeepCup make it their mission to ensure we never forget it! By “delivering engagingly executed and sustainably procured innovative products” it sends a message of positivity and hope, that we can all affect our ‘convenience culture’, one cup at a time. And it’s not a difficult feat when you engage coffee-drinkers, environment-lovers, and the design-appreciative of this world. Through widespread sales of the KeepCup, cafes can lift reuse rates to 40% reusables in the takeaway environment. keepcup.com.au
EMMA LEONARD Emma Leonard is an artist who draws girls with melancholic expressions and sad eyes, and sometimes they’re so shy they have to hide their faces all together. Every now and then, if you say something that really pleases them, they might just give you the hint of a smile. However, that is very rare. Emma is a Melbourne-based illustrator who combines traditional media with digital techniques to create carefully considered renderings of delicate femininity, fragility and ethereal beauty. Her list of clients include Random House, Mitsubishi, Grand Hyatt Melbourne, Rebecca Taylor, Elle Quebec & Madison Magazine. emmaleonard.com
FAWN LOVES
SON VALISE JUKECASES Son Valise is a Melbourne based design company that make JukeCases unique portable audio. They like to upcycle vintage speakers and suitcases to make unique pieces with a focus on sound quality and functionality. JukeCases are battery operated and will last 15+ hours at full charge. They use a 3.5mm headphone port - compatible with all modern devices (iPod/iPhones/HTC/ laptops etc.) JukeCases are the perfect accompaniment to any park-outing/ picnic/BBQ and are just as happy acting as your sole home stereo system. Their style makes us nostalgic of old school listening...if only we were that old. sonvalise.tumblr.com
KUWAII CLOTHING Go back to basics. Keep it simple stupid. This is the impression we get from Kuwaii Clothing, yet the detailing is of the finest precision. Kuwaii have collaborated with talented interior designers, crafters and florists for store displays over the last year, this time around it was a tranquil indoor coloured-water theme that complimented their aqua and print styles to a tee. Which is just one of the ways they bring life to their label on a continual basis. We’re in love with their pretty pastels in simply simple styles: just one piece will set you up for a variety of ways to transform your existing wardrobe. kuwaii.com.au O&M ORIGINAL MINERAL Challenging the status quo, one chemical at a time, Original Mineral is hair care with a very refreshing perspective on the industry. Artificial norms of professional haircare are all too prevalent these days but O&M plan to combat all those nasties with natural extracts and active minerals that deliver real benefits. We love The Power Base, the king of awakenings for damaged hair. The intense dual action treatment works to restore your mane from within. Wheat Protein reconstructs weakened hair to bind broken strands while apricot oil and sweet almond moisturises and nourishes the hair’s exterior. originalmineral.com
SOCIETY 6 PILLOW You can’t fault black and white. There’s an originality about the two together, a beautiful marriage of two opposites who have found each other in a twist of fate. Incorporate a little bit more black and white into your humble interiors with this throw pillow cover made from 100% spun polyester poplin fabric, a stylish statement that you just can’t deny. Individually cut and sewn by hand, the pillow cover m e a su re s 1 6 ” x 16”, features a double-sided print and is finished with a concealed zipper for ease of care. And at just a measly $20 per cover, it would be a crime not to get a few for each room of the house. society6.com. FAWN LOVES / 011
THE FLOWER GROWING FROM A FOOTPATH
FAW N F E AT U R E S
The art industry is as ubiquitous as it’s ever been. In a constantly changing generation we are often left questioning what exactly is ‘art’? When you think about it, the only plain and simple element is art’s exhibition style; the way it’s presented. Gaffa is a bridge of pure genius, to make the connection between ourselves and the culture we live in. They fit the bill and do it with style. Gaffa represents a hub of artists from every era, in a museum instilled with unique flair and individuality. It’s a feast, layed out to perfection for your viewing pleasure. Welcome to the Gaffa Gallery. Gaffa is a collection of gallery spaces, for the artists of our country. These spaces are housed in a ground floor atrium of the heritage-listed c. 1892 Clarence Street Police Station. There is no other space like it, and its prime positioning means the audience grows ever larger and increasingly devoted. Spread over three levels, Gaffa incorporates four gallery spaces, a dedicated jewellery and object workshop and studios, Klink cafe, and their very own design retail space called Sterling. As well as exhibiting the art of Sydney’s up and comers, Gaffa’s loyal and impressive dedication to providing a space to showcase artists work continues to gather praise from all over. The directors have built more than an inner-city artist-run space, they’ve built an institution with a long, strong future, kept safe by a building which is a work of
art in itself. Built in 1891, the contemporary work shown inside the building is brilliantly juxtaposed against the historical facade of its exterior, which is again contrasted by the surrounding office space. An all-encompassing bird’s eye view of the entire Gaffa organism is possessed by the gallery’s manager and hands-on participant, Amy Robson, supported by assistant manager Katrina Stamatopolous, led by directors Kelly Robson and Aidan Li. Living her second year in the role, Amy states that as a gallery, “we endeavour to provide creative space to both established and emerging artists and designers to create and exhibit their work”. It’s clear that Gaffa has made a name for itself not only as a creative platform, but also as an active member of the arts community, and a large contributor to the way artists function as a whole. F A W N F E AT U R E S / 0 1 3
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Despite its ambitious objectives, Gaffa is in a relatively quaint placing within the city. The secret? It’s a secret. “It’s a bustling secret hidey hole smack bang in the middle of the city”, Amy says. As you walk into the establishment’s ground floor, you enter the busy little cafe, Klink, which opens its doors 7am to 3pm Monday to Saturday. Continue through and you’ll find yourself walking down an ever-inviting naturally lit atrium to see the Sterling Arcade, a selling space for the artworks that make up this industry. Up the first set of stairs you come upon a large gallery space divided into four separate rooms. As far as you can see you’ll also discover galleries one, two and three, all of which can be rented starting at just $550 a week. It’s a prime space for anyone who has the means to get their talents out into the limelight, and a wonderful opportunity for the gallery to get to know the artist’s community that little bit better. The galleries change every two weeks so there is always something new to see for members of the general public who wander in and out every day. Go up another level and unfolding in front of your very eyes is a network of jewellers and artists pounding it out at their benches and teaching classes. This extends to the top floor, which houses yet another barrage of creatives, a meeting room and a rooftop area for barbecues, post-work drinks or a lazy lunch in the sun. “It’s a constantly evolving and shifting space”, Amy says. One of the proudest qualities the Gaffa can claim is accessibility. As Amy explains, “it is foremost about access... for artists and designers this is access to space, networks, equipment, support and infrastructure. For the public, it’s access to a welcoming environment which they don’t often get
“It’s a bustling secret hidey hole smack bang in the middle of the city”.
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“Gaffa remains committed to nurturing crossplatform collaboration, collectivity and cohesion within the contemporary arts community.”
to be a part of”. There’s something admirable in being an organic outcast amongst a mad flurry of a community, representing a polluted society: “They can enjoy a genuine experience that isn’t homogenised or franchised, which in their current location of the CBD, is pretty hard to come by,” Amy points out. The other quality to be celebrating is the lush breeze of collaboration, and collaboration means everything to Gaffa. “If not directly on projects, then through developing a supportive community and framework through which people can feel comfortable trying, testing, and refining their ideas”, Amy says. We’re learning that Gaffa is all about creating a home of sorts, in the way artists feel at ease. Creating this nurturing environment is quickly proving to be one of the key ingredients to a successful creative industry, allowing artists the opportunity and space to create. This level of comfort is so contagious even the public can sense it: “Having numerous projects, exhibitions, launches and artists upstairs in the studios at any one time creates a certain dynamic in the building. Frequently, when people walk through the Gaffa doors,
they comment on the energy in the building. They can feel the excitement and the intent... it is critical to pool resources, to support each other and to create a sense of strength in numbers in general for the Gaffa team”. She reaffirms that “Gaffa remains committed to nurturing cross-platform collaboration, collectivity and cohesion within the contemporary arts community.” When you get the chance to visit, it’s clear that the various hubs of the gallery are what make it endearingly inviting. Just walk into the retail shop and see wearable and usable works of art by Australian craftspeople - like cutting-edge jewellery and sketches of individual pieces, where visitors can observe inception to development. You can also buy glass and ceramic pieces by emerging artists that are displayed in stark, glass fixtures that juxtapose the dark timber floors of this heritage building. To date, Gaffa runs one of the largest communal jewellery and object art workshops and studios in Australia. Their jewellery workshop comes fully equipped with everything a jeweller could ever need. As Amy points out, “It takes up
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a whole level in our building. We currently have permanent studio artists who are with us long-term and we also run classes four terms a year which range from beginner silver-smithing through to enamelling and one on one skillbased sessions. There’s night time slots for those looking for something interesting to do with their evenings and Saturdays for when you have a bit more time to get stuck in.” One of the more lucrative areas of Gaffa is the Sterling retail store, where the general public can purchase artworks. Usually most other pieces in the gallery are for sale, decided on by their artists, but it’s not always the case and doesn’t necessarily have to be. As Amy mentions, “Artists who have been lucky enough to be picked up by a commercial gallery, whilst being very fortunate, can also then become stifled and pressured to create a certain type of work because it appeals to the gallery’s clientele.” Galleries tend to become the public face of the art community, with the general public only aware of and able to access the art that makes its way into these spaces. “That’s the trouble with not having enough galleries for there to be enough variety in what the public has access to. It can become very limited and often only a showcase of work that is commercially and financially viable.” From a visitor’s perspective, the possibilities appear endless, simply based on the way the team position the gallery’s organs, like that of a human body. “Having a crossover of activities in the building is critical to what we do” director Kelly Robson explains. “Our store, cafe and arcade work well on the ground level as they serve as a welcoming entry point for random passersby. Once they have entered, they realise there is much more going on inside and are hopefully hooked!” Since moving into what is a much larger building (Gaffa started exhibiting in 2006 in Surry Hills), Kelly and the team have adopted the phrase ‘creative precinct’, and rightly so, as they have moulded an environment where you can meet with artists and designers, have a coffee while you browse, see artworks and also purchase quality design work on the ground floor. There are a couple of challenges for Gaffa to deal with though, as is the case with any business - and it’s to do with sustained infrastructure. As Kelly says, “everyone who works here is a practicing artist, yet the tasks that need to be done each day are so diverse. But that’s also the great thing about Gaffa; people who come on board can choose what skill set they want to develop and then really run with it.” Another challenge is to essentially make sure they make the decision to spend the money that they manage to make as profit, to 0 1 6 / F A W N F E AT U R E S
“That’s the trouble with not having enough galleries for there to be enough variety in what the public has access to.”
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increase their longevity. It is a fluctuating industry we are in after all, and the way finances are handled can often be a determining factor in success. Gaffa have adopted the term ‘Artist Run Initiative’ or ARI. As Amy describes, “ARI’s are spaces (in any form) that are managed and run by artists, have a continuing program of creative activities and operate on a not-forprofit basis.” It’s certainly not uncommon for artists to lack some self-esteem - for all the talent they possess it’s not unusual at all. As encouraging as the Gaffa is, as an artist you might shy away from exposure as you only see yourself as an amateur, but when we asked Amy about it, this couldn’t be further from the truth. “Some emerging first-timers are just as professional, talented, popular and sellable as well-known artists and some more established artists come completely unprepared, unorganised and get their show together just minuted before it opens. At Gaffa we are here to support any type of artist in their practice and provide a platform for further opportunities.” Gaffa’s directors have object-based backgrounds and believe that Australian object art and design’s unique character, intelligence and vitality will benefit from Gaffa’s central location and exciting exhibition programming. As part of this belief, ARI’s for the variety of artists include
the Guest Gallery, which encourages the guest curator/ director to push boundaries, to promote the experimental and to give opportunity to works that might never have a chance to be shown in a gallery context before. Another is the Arcade Project. The physical arcades within the structure of the Gaffa are a unique opportunity for creative producers to gain access to short term, creatively driven spaces ideal for a range of projects, but not limited to: concept stores, launching new works, testing and sharing ideas, presenting a label, or conducting a workshop. On a broader note, what can this type of business do for the future of the creative arts industry in the years to come? Evidently so, Gaffa gives young hopefuls a quality level of exposure no matter what stage they’re at in their career, but more importantly it’s about the sustainability of these artists. “We’re hoping that we can help create a precedent for other future organisations in terms of the infrastructure we’ve developed and the networks we’ve created. We’d like to see the creative industry generating more income and for that income to be directly felt by local artists. We would be thrilled if we weren’t such a rarity and if there were similar spaces in our neighbourhood.” So it’s out there. Gaffa has taken the lead. But who will follow? Only time will tell…
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JESSICA SINGH A beaming light blossoming amongst the unseemingly competitive illustration community, Jessica Singh is a Perth-born, Melbournian, Central St Martins graduate. As if that isn’t enough to get your heart fluttering, she works on a freelance basis and has a penchant for pencilling both national and internationally acclaimed illustrations. Sit down and step into Singh’s world; a hop, skip and jump away from reality.
LOCATION // Resides Melbourne, Australia I live in a little cute worker’s cottage in Fitzroy North and usually ride my bike down to my studio in the city. My studio is part of a building called the Nicholas Building which is 9 levels of creative studios, shops & galleries. It’s a beautiful old building! My studio which I share with 3 others has a really nice warehouse feel. FOUNDATION // I was 15, kind of a video game and internet nerd who was learning japanese and started becoming obsessed with anime & manga. I began researching it a lot online and started wishing I could draw that way, I kept practicing and practicing. My brother bought me a tablet from his overseas trip and my work kind of started becoming gradually a bit more refined from there.I began posting F A W N I L L U S T R AT I O N / 0 1 9
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my work on an old site deviantArt, and got a lot of positive feedback that spurred me on. I realised from this point that I definitely wanted to pursue illustration as a career, so I kept posting throughout highschool and early university. My career gradually built up whilst I was studying. EDUCATION // I studied fine art for six months at Curtin University in Perth and though it was maybe too conceptual for what I wanted to do. I transferred to graphic design but ironically I did pretty badly because the course just wasn’t that stimulating. In search of a better course in 2007 I decided to apply to Central St Martins college of art and design in London for their illustration major (as part of their graphic design course). I spent half a year prepping a portfolio and in September I found out I was admitted. It was amazingly intensive illustration course, highly critical and sometimes bordering on art therapy. I met heaps of colorful characters which inspired me to no end. PRODUCTION // I mainly use my Wacom graphics tablet and Photoshop. I find it really fast and easy to change things and experiment this way. I also scan in a lot of textures, patterns and hand drawn elements, so I tend to play with my scanner a lot. I’m trying to get more into doing more things hand drawn and then working with them digitally. INSPIRATION // Oh gosh, a lot of things. I guess the main influences I could say are color, music and lyrics, different cultures and other illustrators and artists. My favourites are Beci Orpin, Nathalie Lehe, Angie Wang, Dean Cheuk, Riika Sormunen. So many modern day geniuses! I also catalogue my inspiration at my tumblr jessicasin.tumblr.com. www.jessicasingh.com
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ALCAINO CREATIVE They say twins have extra-ordinary talent and spookily accurate powers, now we know they were talking about the Alcaino sisters. In true form, they work collaboratively to create original designs, videos and photographs Stephanie takes to fashion, natural and portrait photography and Micaela’s expertise is the digital media realm. Together they are Alcaino Creative Design and Photography and they are doing superbly by remaining a freelance unit. Featured in our last issue (The Art of Being Cool shoot), read on about the spookily-talented Sydneysiders...
Micaela and Stephanie Alcaino’s self portrait that appeared in their portrait series on Twins
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One of the many promotional music posters designed by Micaela.
“You could say we’ve collaborated our whole lives, even in high school we’d swap classes for the fun of it.”
Q: What is Alcaino Creative’s history and how did this collaboration come about? A: We both have been very creative from a young age. We used to make up games, build our own cameras out of lego, paint, pretend we were spies and take candid shots of people on the street with disposable cameras. We even were creative enough to make up our own sister language. You could say we’ve collaborated our whole lives, even in high school we’d swap classes for the fun of it. It’s only recently that we have channeled our collaboration on a more professional basis. Q: What are your educational backgrounds? A: Aside from primary and high school education, we both went to university. I (Stephanie) studied a Bachleor of Fine Arts/ Arts with French and Photography Majors, while Micaela studied Digital Media.
An image from the “One Fine Day” editorial photographed by Stephanie (Sydney).
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An image from the“James Parr is the New Redhead in Town” series featured on The Fashionisto, photographed by Stephanie (London).
Q: Give us a rundown of the schedule you keep? Ah the life of creative freelancers, our schedule is organised chaos. Which is great because each week is a surprise and completely different from the previous. But we always make sure that we stay on top of it. Though we live in the same house we both still talk over email to each other haha. Q: What are your most favoured types of projects? A: It’s really nice when we get an opportunity to work together. I (Stephanie) focus on photography, while Micaela focuses on design and videography. The best projects are probably our personal travel photography, when we go away overseas together. Always travelling with a suitcase filled with 120mm and 35mm film. Travelling is the best inspiration for all things creative, it’s a great way to open your eyes to seeing things differently.
“Travelling is the best inspiration for all things creative, it’s a great way to open your eyes to seeing things differently.”
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Screen shot of one of the video series’ created by the Alcaino sisters.
F A W N TA L K S
The Big Exo Day 2012 campaign poster designed by Micaela. An image from the “River Gypsy” editorial, photographed by Stephanie (Paris).
“This year is a big year of change for us. Both of us are making the move overseas.” Q: What has been your experience working within the creative industry? A: Stephanie - I started off assisting a little for some fashion/music photographers, which really gave me an understanding of how the industry worked. I worked at a place called The Front which was another great world to be apart of within the photographic circle in Sydney. On a more personal basis, I have had work published in some magazines, and in 2011 had some photographs exhibited in Milk Studios, New York. Micaela - I was lucky enough to start freelancing for a touring company within Warner Music for a few years and then was blessed to
become the creative director of a youth music festival called the Big Exo Day. I’ve had a few posters published and put up on the street, so it’s nice to walk past one every once in a while. I’ve also had a few of my portraiture projects published. Q: What is in the future for the Alcaino sisters? A: This year is a big year of change for us. Both of us are making the move overseas. I (Micaela) am off to live in the UK for the second time and Stephanie is off to live in France. So luckily we are only a few hours away from each other but planning to expand and grow Alcaino Creative on more of an international scale!
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FLOWERBEDS Photography: Claire Wallman Styling: Seaneen Blair Talent: Silke @ London Management Hair: Leah White MUA: Casey Gore .
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Haute Couture Blazer: Gab, Shorts: Uscari, Belt: The Style Factory, Necklace: Dinosaur Designs.
Tutu dress: Cooper St, Vintage tee: Stylist’s own, Necklaces and bangles: Dinosaur Designs.
Tutu dress: Cooper St, Vintage tee: Stylist’s own, Necklaces and bangles: Dinosaur Designs.
Haute Couture Coat: Uptights, Pants: Cooper St, Vintage Belt: Stylist’s own, Necklaces and bangles: Dinosaur Designs,
Leather mini dress: White Suede, Rings and bangle: Dinosaur Designs.
Silk blazer, top and mini skirt: Socialight, Necklaces: The Style Factory.
Marakech dress: Georgia Osborne, Head scarf: Stylist’s own.
Cropped jacket: Cooper St, Mini skirt: Ellery @ Lol & Roc, Couture neckpiece: The Style Factory, Necklace: Dinosaur Designs.
THE LAKEHOUSE Photography: Margie Curry Styling: Lauren Becker Talent: Ellie Hextall & Sophie Taylor @ Chadwicks Hair/MUA: Amy Sartorel
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Sophie (left) - Knitted jumper: Stylestalker, Sunglasses: Valley, Necklaces: Elk. Elle (right) - Dress: Ruby Sees All, Cardigan: Pol Design, Belt: Peter Lang, Hat: Stylist’s own, Head scarf: Camilla, Necklace: Elk.
Dress: Jennifer Kate, Knitted jumper: Coop, Belt: Stylist’s own, Necklace: Indy C.
Embroidered jacket: Camilla, Denim shorts: One Teaspoon, Wedge boots: Spur, Necklace and ring: MIEC.
Elle (left) - Dress: Jennifer Kate, Knitted jumper: Coop, Belt: Stylist’s own, Necklace: Indy C. Sophie (right) - Chunky knit: Cooper St, Singlet: Story by Tang, Chiffon skirt: Coop, Wedge boots: Spurr, Necklace and ring: Elk.
Wool coat with leather panels and white shirt: Serpent & The Swan, Trousers: White Suede, Boots: Kobe Husk, Hat: Sportsgirl, Bag: Stylist’s own, Wooden necklace: Elk, Skull necklace: Sportsgirl.
Lamb fur jacket: Lilya, Silk dress: Elk, Leggings: Ixiah, Belt: Indy C, Open end quartz necklace and bone necklace: Serpent & The Swan, Silver pendant necklace: MIEC.
Elle (top) - Mohair jumper: Story by Tang, Chambray shirt: Dricoper, Pants: Ruby Sees All, Beanie: Braez. Sophie (bottom) - Knit: Elk, Tank: Stylestalker, Knitted harem pants: One Teaspoon, Beanie: Braez, Necklace: The Dark Horse.
Mohair jumper: Story by Tang, Chambray shirt: Dricoper, Beanie: Braez.
INTO THE FIERY SUN Photography: Bronwyn Towsend Designers: Ella Drayson & Jess Stewart Talent: Bree Fry Hair/MUA: Rosie Mossman
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Lace dress: Jess Stewart.
Black dress and fur: Ella Drayson.
Black dress and fur: Ella Drayson.
Top and pants: Jess Stewart.
Black dress and fur: Ella Drayson.
Hooded blouse: Ella Drayson.
TO PRACTICE ANY ART, NO MATTER HOW WELL OR BADLY, IS A WAY TO MAKE YOUR SOUL GROW. KURT VONNEGUT
FAWN STUDIOS
INK & SPINDLE Located on the second floor of the old Younghusband Wool Store building in the Melbourne suburb of Kensington, surrounded by a cluster of creatives, Ink & Spindle produce delicately, beautiful hand screen-printed textiles. We politely asked if we could poke our heads into their super spacious studio and shoot a few questions their way about working in Kensington and what it is they adore so darn much about their charming workspace. Q: How did you find your artistic haven? A: Both Tegan and I (Lara) had spent many years travelling past the Younghusband Building on the train and admiring it from afar. It has a beautiful sawtoothed roof, old red bricks and large vintage lettering around the outside. We had both daydreamed about one day living or working in this building. As fortune would have it, when we were first planning to start up Ink & Spindle this building came on the market for commercial lease. When we first came to look inside Younghusband most of the spaces were still vacant and we basically had the pick of the lot! The space we picked was actually one of the uglier ones (lino floors, no exposed beams, electric blue pained window frames!) but it had the most natural light and we knew there’d be nice floorboards underneath all the hideous lino. Divine Ink & Spindle lamp shade and cushions.
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FAWN STUDIOS
The creative duo behind Ink & Spindle designs, Lara & Tegan.
“The space we picked was actually one of the uglier ones but it had the most natural light and we knew there’d be nice floorboards underneath all the hideous lino.” Q: Your designs are largely inspired by Australian nature, why is that? A: We are both very interested in Australian flora and fauna. They are beautiful striking forms that translate well to print. It’s the sort of thing that we have grown up around. It’s where our passion lies. It kind of suits our aesthetic, which is a bit organic and muted. Q: What do you like most about having a Kensingtonbased studio? A: Kensington is a gorgeous suburb. Close to the city but with a great community feel and a lovely strip of shops. The Younghusband Building itself is quite large and filled with all sorts of creative folk—photographers, fashion, stationery, industrial and graphic designers and also a massive performing arts space downstairs. It’s nice to share ideas and resources with other creatives. Q: How would you describe the space? A: In one word? Home. It’s a real workspace, so the studio definitely goes through various stages of tidiness!
Draws full of Ink & Spindle designs.
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FAWN STUDIOS
Where the magic happens. 10 metre print table.
“The studio exists purely so we can create the designs and turn them into beautiful, sustainable fabrics.”
Rolls of textile delight in the Ink & Spindle studio.
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Q: The place is surrounded by Ink & Spindle designs. Why is this so important to you? A: The studio exists purely so we can create the designs and turn them into beautiful, sustainable fabrics. It would be impossible for the space not to be surrounded by Ink & Spindle designs. Q: What is your favourite part of the studio? A: I had a really big think about this question and I don’t have one! I thought about each section of the studio and found I actually love each piece for their separate functions. I love our door and signage (a recent makeover), I love our beautiful 10 metre table because it’s where the magic happens, I love the ink mixing area because I get to get my hands dirty and experiment, I love the display area because it shows our fabrics off so beautifully, I love the packing and cutting table because everything is so organised, I love the screen rack because we didn’t have one for a while and so I really appreciate how well it does it’s job, I love the sitting area because it’s where we have important meetings and/or morning teas with wonderful people, I love the gorgeous view of the city because Melbourne has a special place in my heart, I even love the office because although what goes on at our desks can often be tedious, we get to share our office with some very talented folk. Each part functions as one section of the machine—we need them all to work, so I couldn’t possibly pick a favourite! Q: On occasion you run open studio days with free printing demonstrations, what inspired this idea? A: We get a lot of people emailing and calling saying, “Hi I really like your stuff can I just come in and see what you do?” which is great,
FAWN STUDIOS
The morning & afternoon tea time couch. Perfect for relaxing after a hard days work in the studio.
“I even love the office because although what goes on at our desks can often be tedious, we get to share our office with some very talented folk.” Bits and pieces in the Ink and Spindle studio.
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FAWN STUDIOS
Office decor, Ink & Spindle signage.
“We have met a great many amazing people thanks to our studio existing and I suppose that’s what I value most.”
it’s lovely; however, when someone comes they want to see how we print, they want to talk about stuff or they might just want to come and look. So that’s great but when it happens it takes us away from running the business so we can’t afford to have a person come through everyday and take an hour out of our day. So, as a happy medium we open up every eighth Saturday and come into work and do a print demo, have fabric for sale, talk and people can ask any questions they like and we put on a bit of a morning spread. Q: What do you value most about the studio? A: This space has allowed us to find our feet and grow— on both business and personal levels. I (Tegan) was barely 24-years-old when we first began Ink & Spindle and to me, our studio has been a haven and consistent as we have gone through the peaks and troughs of life. Everyday I get to work with a truly wonderful person, who throughout the course of running this business has become more than a best friend—more like a sister. It has enabled us to foster wonderful, positive relationships with colleagues in the greater design community too. We have met a great many amazing people thanks to our studio existing and I suppose that’s what I value most.
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Ink & Spindle upholstered lamp shade and armchairs.
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FAWN JOBS
LAUREN BECKER fashion & event stylist Lauren Becker is a freelance fashion and event stylist who works on advertisements, TV commericials, red carpet, weddings, media launches, pop-up bars and interiors. She is also a costume designer, food lover and gin drinker. We took a moment to sit down with Lauren to discuss the finers points of what it really involved being a stylist... Q: For all those future stylists in the country, what does being a Stylist entail? A: Every project or brief you work on is different. But in general there are 3 or 4 basic stages to each project. First you break down the written brief and create a style “mood board”. Second you “source”, which means going out and finding everything you need for the shoot.
A rail of evening dresses ready for fittings for the AACTA Awards.
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Stylist Lauren Becker in her home, wearing necklace from her new jewellery line launching soon.
FAWN JOBS
Lauren setting up an outdoor lounge room beside a lake; the backdrop for an EP album cover shot.
“Sophie Hart has a team of 5 working with her. This means that between the team we handle an on-going array of projects, with numerous jobs running at the same time.”
Then you are “on-set” which means setting everything up on shoot location and making sure it all comes together. Lastly there are “returns”, which means getting everything back to where you loaned it from. If you want to know more, for behind-the-scenes shots follow me on instagram: lauren_becker_stylist. Q: How did you break into the styling industry and land your position at Sophie Hart Styling? A: I completed a degree in Fashion and Textile Design at UTS Sydney and during my third year at Uni someone introduced me to Sophie and then I undertook work experience with her. Then as they say, the rest is history. Q: For a styling company the team is quiet large, how does this dynamic work? A: Our team is one of the largest in Sydney so we possibly don’t work like most other stylists. Most stylists have one, maybe two assistants. Sophie Hart has a team of 5 working with her. This means that between the team we handle an on-going array of projects, with numerous jobs running at the same time. So depending on the job Lauren and make up artist Nicola making adjustments on set for a fashion editorial for Maverick Magazine.
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FAWN JOBS
Lauren making adjustments on set. Filming in front of a green screen for Optus.
“The most rewarding aspect is usually seeing the end result come together with success on the day.” one person may work on it from start to finish, other jobs require the whole team to work on it. Q: What are your responsibilities? A: My responsibilities range depending on the job. Sometimes I am responsible to complete the whole job through all stages. Other jobs I may only work on certain parts. Apart from styling I am also the costume designer/creator in the team. I create bespoke costumes/ accessories/props for advertisments, commercials and events etc as well as alter and customise garments for weddings, the red carpet and a whole array of things. Q: What would you attribute as the most rewarding aspect of being a stylist? The most rewarding aspect is usually seeing the end result come together wit h success o n t h e d ay. Se e i n g everything work together and producing great stills/video/looks etc. And then of course seeing your work on television, the side of a bus, on a billboard or in a magazine is pretty exciting. Lauren’s car full to the brim as always, this time picking up balloons for a shoot.
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FAWN JOBS
Lauren on set styling a music video clip on a roof top in Bondi.
Q: What advice would you give to anyone wanting to be a Stylist? A: You should undertake work experience before you decide it’s definitely what you want to do My advice is that it’s not as ‘glamourous’ as the stereotypes or media make it out to be. It is really hard work; creatively, emotionally, physically. You have to be prepared to work random hours, long days and complete many an unusual task. Multi-tasking is absolutely key, as is an open-mind, a collaborative outlook, strong work ethic, creativity, confidence and a sense of humour. But if you have all this it is a very rewarding and amazing job. Q: Where do you see yourself in three years from now? A: That’s a tricky question. Working in the freelance world means walking a very open, winding path. You never know what projects you are going to find yourself on or which way your path is going to turn as you get exposed to so many fabulous ideas, people and projects. I want to do more of my own design work, so I am hoping to start a small label soon to work on alongside my styling work. I’d also love to be working on more events, even though I come from a fashion design background I have found that I love working on interiors, and events like weddings etc. Being able to work on a wide range of creative projects with talented, lovely people is always the goal.
Event styling in the Glass House in the Botanical Gardens.
“Being able to work on a wide range of creative projects with talented, lovely people is always the goal.”
Floral arrangements for a wedding, styled by Lauren.
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