O N L I N E | C R E AT I V E | M A G A Z I N E JULY 2015
#1
ISSUE HOORAY!
IT’S A PUBLIC HOLIDAY
A COllaboraTive
EAST END FLOWER MARKET & EMMA KATE CO.
VERNAS KEEP
BYRON BAY’S BEST KEPT SECRET
CHRISTIAN MARC PHOTOGRAPHY
HOBBA
LEJASP
BOHEMIAN STYLE WALL CHARMS
Founder, Editor in Chief Samii Lund samii@theeyecreative.com Consulting Creative Director chris melbourne info@theeyecreative.com
Contributing creatives to this issue can be seen on page 9. The Eye Creative has tried to mention all photographers showcased throughout the images in this magazine & on our social media channels. If we have mistakenly missed the opportunity to showcase a particular photographer whose image is within our magazine, please send an email to info@theeyecreative.com and we will feature said photographer in the next issue.
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ADVERTISE WITH THE EYE CREATIVE advertise@theeyecreative.com
GENERAL ENQUIRIES
info@theeyecreative.com
SUBMISSIONS
The Eye Creative accepts freelance art, photo and story submissions from creatives around Australia. We may not be able to reply personally to each individual that is unsuccessful, however we will keep your work and story on file for upcoming issues or opportunities. To submit, please include your full name, business name and a sample of your work in your email to info@theeyecreative.com.
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TIME TO kick off THE BIG ADVENTURE THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 3
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EDITOR’S NOTE
It’s one of those moments in life where you hold your breath, think of all the reasons why you shouldn’t, ignore those thoughts and just press ‘GO’. Nothing has ever been more liberating to me then to be able to press “publish” on this; the very first edition of The Eye Creative.
COV E R I M AG E
For those of you who haven’t been following us for the past couple of months on social media, The Eye Creative is a magazine designed by creatives, for creatives. It allows our fabulously talented Australian creatives to showcase their wares and hard earned talents in ONE publication, which we can then share with all of you; the lovers of creativity. Within our pages you will find sultry musicians from Byron Bay, wedding and portrait photographers from Melbourne, Florists from Adelaide, illustrators, home décor experts, stylists, chefs, events and so much more! The Eye Creative is an Australian based mag, therefore we are here to celebrate and support our home-grown talent. Thank you for supporting the dream that is The Eye Creative, I hope you enjoy the magazine as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you.
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love Samii xx
supplied by: HOBBA
www.hobba.com.au
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THE EYE BEGINS HERE
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conTenTS PAGE 3.
CONTACT DETAILS/ SUBMISSIONS
PAGE 5.
EDITORS NOTE
PAGE 9.
CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES
PAGE 11. EYE SHOP 17. JO NIXON ILLUSTRATION 22. ARC & FAMILY 25. EAST END FLOWER MARKET & EMMA KATE CO. 31. EMISA COLLECTIONS 33.CHRISTIAN MARC PHOTOGRAPHY 37. SUMMERSALT BODY 41. LEJASP 45. EYOTA CLOTHING 53. PUBLIC HOLIDAY 57. MAX & JACK PAGE 59.
EYE EAT 61. HOBBA, PRAHRAN 67. THE ASSEMBLY 71. COMO PARADE CAFE
PAGE 75.
EYE LISTEN 77. LIV HEYER 79. VERNAS KEEP 83. ALBUM REVIEWS
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AMY FARNWORTH
CHRIS MELBOURNE
LAURA CULLEN
SREY-MOM LUND
Amy is our honorary Aussie, a British traveler with a insane passion for writing and life. Our lucky stumble into the path of Miss Farnsworth was fate working its glorious magic.
Father, social native and all-round good guy Chris, has been involved in The Eye from the get go. He has scouted most talent within this issue and has been involved in not only writing and interviewing, but also the overall creative direction.
Laura is not only an incredibly talented writer, but she is also a singer/ songwriter performing solo shows each month in Richmond, Victoria. Her creative passions and outgoing personality contributed to some of our biggest articles this month.
Talented photographer Srey-Mom, is a Cambodian born, Adelaide local whom we were lucky enough to have photograph our collaborative creatives Emma Kate Co & East End Flower Market earlier this month.
Writer
Writer, Creative Director
MAKAYLA HALLIDAY Photographer Adelaide-based Photographer Makayla was the other half to our perfect photography team for East End Flower Market & Emma Kate Co collab shoot.
Writer
creaTIVE conTribuTors
Are you a writer, blogger, illustrator or photographer looking for an opportunity to have your work published? The Eye Creative is looking for contributors for upcoming issues. To be considered, please send your full name, contact details ... and one clear image (or link to work) to info@theeyecreative.com. We would love to hear from you!
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Photographer
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EYOTA CLOTHING Float away on those hippie vibes with your very own Eyota playsuit like this babe. For under $50, we can all afford to be stylishly free (and if not, blame the spend on your gypsy soul). Gypsy Play Suit | $49.00 One Size (6-14) www.eyotaclothing.com
NIMBUS When a graphic designer transitions into clothing designer, you know you’re onto a good thing! Introducing Nimbus; the incredible tshirt brand suitable for any Aussie bloke. Mr Nimbus Skull Tee | $49.00 Available in Black, Grey and White www.nimbustshirt.com
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ZOUSI Marble patterns....I’m in love! Check out these beauties from Zousi...each unique and hand-made. White Marble Copper Bead *also available in Gold & Silver bead, Black Marble Copper Beads | $30.00 www.zousijewellery.bigcartel.com
BRENT DAKIS
It is fair to say that we have fallen absolutely head over heels in love with the work of Brent Dakis. Designed in the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria, these beautiful pieces will have your fingers feeling all kinds of amazing after putting them on. Chaos Rings | $300.00 Made to order, any size available www.brentdakis.com
SUMMER SALT BODY Did someone say SALE? Enter THEEYECREATIVE in the shopping cart and receive 15% off your entire purchase this month! YES! White Clay Masque | $14.90 Size: 100g (Enough for 4 applications) www.summersaltbody.com
ORC APPAREL Stop what you’re doing and have a look at this brand new amazing streetwear brand created in Melbourne. Crew necks & tshirts perfect for the guy who loves comfort & style. ORC Logo Crew | $59.00 available in grey | XS-XXL www.orcapparel.com/shop
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DESIGN | STYLE | JEWELLERY | HOME DECOR | BLO
EyE CRE
LOOMS | ILLUSTRATION | PHOTOGRAPH | ARTIST
christian marc photography lEjasP ARC & fAmIly jo nixon
EATE
& more...
Focus your gorgeous peepers on these incredible Illustrations... you will not be able to look away, I promise! After relocating back to Melbourne following a stint in old London town, Jo had a brain snap - she wanted to draw. She wanted to put pen to paper, go back to basics, and draw. It’s as simple as that.
Her artwork and illustrations though are far from simple and Jo takes inspiration from just about anything and everything - faces, light, colours, angles...even the elements; my personal favourites being her work with close up detail, especially a piece entitled “Cigarettes and Whiskey and Wild Wild Women”.
Jo may be an accomplished photographer but I’m 121% positive that her illustrations will set her apart from anyone else out there in this field. Her work is dynamic and reflective, it’s punchy and eye-catching, and I for one, love it!
She combines a feminine and delicate aesthetic with a unique technique and style to create detailed, expressive, and reflective pieces of art. And boy are they beautiful.
Still in a relatively developmental stage, with more work yet to be produced but ideas flowing thick and fast, Jo is already shipping internationally (great for overseas fans, woohoo!) and with prices starting from a mere $20, why would you NOT want to spend a bit of cash on something this brilliant?!
The pale pastel shades she uses and the really subtle way she digitally enhances the imagery to make her drawings come together on the page, just resonates how in touch with her artistic side she is - everything looks effortless and simple, as if she’s been in some kind of meditative trance whilst drawing. The highlights and shadows; the formation of lines using dots; the fun, quirky touches she adds to her drawings – everything about the process makes them so appealing and attractive.
Writer: Amy Farnsworth
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JO NIXON
JO NIXON illUSTrATION
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@mlcartworks www.facebook.com/mlcartworks mlcartworks@gmail.com
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arc
& Family
LET US TURN YOU INTO A POT HEAD. THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 22
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´We draw inspiration from hundreds of paint swatches that we love to put together for different decor and homes as well as basic shapes and things we see in everyday life. We are always thinking of new designs and colour ways plus some new ARC products.” Collaborations with stylists across Australia have propelled this young family’s creative venture to new heights, with their pots being featured in publications, photoshoots and projects alike. Who knew a simple planter pot could look so good!? Arc & Family ship nationally and with custom designs welcomed, it’s probably a smart idea for you to jump onto www.arcandfamily.com.au as soon as possible and snap one of these beauties up! Arc’s extra small egg pots start at $65 and concrete pots start at $35.00 including a cactus or succulent. @arcandfamilypots
arc & famIly There is nothing more charming and inspirational than a family uniting their passions and becoming a strong creative force... and the team at Arc & Family are just that! As a self-confessed home décor addict, I can say with confidence that Arc & Family know ‘what’s up’ when it comes to eclectic & stylish planters. THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 24
A CREATIVE collaboraTio
on
EAST END FLOWER MARKET & EMMA KATE CO.
5 MINUTES WITH EMMA KATE CO & EAST END FLOWER MARKET How long have you both individually been in your creative field? Emma - Officially (since uni), 6 years. Unofficially, ever since I could hold a paintbrush! I have been a creative, garden dwelling, wandering travel spirit since I could walk, and never anything but. Justine – I have been a florist for almost 10 years now. My mum was a florist and my sister is too, so it runs in the family. It’s actually the only job I have ever had since I left high school. Floristry is my absolute passion and not many people can say that they love their job and as corny as this sounds I really do love my job. How did you both meet? Instagram, of course! But seriously. I (Emma) saw that a gorgeous new florist had opened in Adelaide, so she went to visit/stalk, buy flowers and meet the owner (Justine). And we hit it off immediately! We then realised we already have mutual friends (which is pretty standard for Adelaide). I fell head over heels for Justine’s gorgeous aesthetic and styling, so pitched the idea of featured Justine on my blog, to tell her story and spread the word about East End Flower Market. How did the collaboration come about? Who approached Whom? Emma approached Justine with the idea of using some of her wrapping paper (from her yet-to-be-released stationery collection) to wrap around flowers for Mother’s Day, just to test the response and see if people liked the option of having something a little more special than brown paper wrap. The wrap was a hit and sold out! So now, we’re planning on making it a longer term collaboration, beyond Mother’s Day. Describe your collaboration for us. What’s the product? 3 of Emma Kate Co’s wrapping paper from her Wild Hearts collection, exclusive to East End Flower Market bouquets. THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 27
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Have either of your done similar collabs before? Emma - I’ve done lots of creative stationery collaborations - namely the Scatter Love postcard project with Fat Mum Slim, and the Collective Celebration of Self Care with Blog Society, but this is my first collaboration with a florist! Justine – I am new to collaborating with other creative people. I am super excited to be collaborating with Emma for East End Flower Markets first collab. She is an absolute inspiration to not only me but to so many people who wish to follow their dreams and be successful. Whats on in the future for Emma Kate & East End Flower Market? Any exhibitions or other projects you are involved in? Emma - It’s a hugely exciting time for me, as I put out into the world my signature stationery + travel + collection in July. I’m going to be exhibiting the range at First in Style (Melbourne) and at Top Drawer (London).
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I’m also planning to release a range of beautifully curated travel guides/maps - and over time, a world address book! Which will require lots of travel and adventures… and coffee. Justine – East End Flower Market is still quite new, so we will be focusing on getting our name out there a little bit more. We have recently just launched our website, so we hope to keep improving this with our blog and flower of the week segments. We also have been accepted to be apart of the Sala Festival and will be exhibiting works by the talented Rachel Darling. Opening night will be held on the 1st of August and details will be posted on our social media pages closer to the date. THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 30
EMISA COllECTIONS It’s the constant debate between women, what is a girl’s best friend; Jewellery or chocolate cake? For years I have stood strongly on chocolate cakes side of the fence, holding up signs of love and dedication and shouting “I LOVE CAKE” with more passion than you can imagine (so much so that even my intolerance to gluten couldn’t stop me). That is…until that fateful day scrolling through social media feeds, when I came across the amazing Polymer Clay jewellery designs of Emisa Collections. THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 31
The use of soft leather threaded ever so beautifully through pastel coloured, hand-rolled beads had me, for the first time, placing my “Marry Me, Chocolate Cake” signs down on the ground. In all honesty, I don’t wear much jewellery… Maybe a ring or two when I find them lying around the office after losing them years prior (a bit like bobby pins and washing machine eaten socks), however, after discovering these cute and stylish necklaces, Emisa Collections has completely turned me into a Polymer Clay Jewellery addict!
Founded by Gold Coast friends and young mums Emily & Sammy, Emisa Collections is designed to be on trend yet versatile, with 4 length options for each necklace, ensuring that absolutely anybody can wear their designs. Prices range from as little as $10 through to $50, so there really is no excuse not to buy up big. Each with Diplomas in Beauty Therapy, these girls have had the creative urge long before the birth of Emisa. Together with their love for interior design and all things unique and beautiful, Emily & Sammy have also added a home décor range to their website, so you can wear your Emisa and eat off it too! Wonderful! Juggling motherhood with a creative business cannot be easy, but these two ‘wonderwomen’ seem to do it with ease, creating each piece by hand ensuring that their love for creativity and beautiful things is shared with their clientele. With an Emisa studio workshop planned for the not so distant future and recent features in magazines such as Frankie (and now The Eye), we can see these two hot mumma’s selling out their stock each week faster than you can say chocolate cake.
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CHRISTIAN MARC PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.CHRISTIANMARCPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU
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CHRISTIAN MARC PHOTOGRAPHY
They say an image is worth a thousand words, and in the work of Christian Marc Photography, these words have never been truer. Residing in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, photographer Christian Marc Vetter spends his days capturing and editing those special moments that no one else can see. His work is undeniably beautiful, portraying a sense of secrecy, capturing candid and genuine emotion filled moments. It all started when travelling through Europe with his beautiful wife, Shani. Besides the beautiful surroundings of the European culture, it was discovering his grandfather’s photos and old slides from his past that struck a creative chord with his passion.
Upon meeting Christian, it becomes immediately evident how his personality is a big part of his work. He greets me with a big friendly smile, a cheeky glint in his eyes and a way of making you feel like he’s known you forever. Seeing the way he looks at his wife as she happily chats to a friend proves that he understands what it’s like to be in love; a quality that I’m sure is influential in the way he captures such magical moments in his work. The raw emotion, love and connection between people and his passion for story-telling, make Christians images an adventure for the eye. He’s the most charismatic photographer we’ve ever come across and has an incredible knack of being invisible behind the camera to ensure his images are as genuine as possible.
“I [want] to ... capture other peoples moments and turn them into everlasting memories and heirlooms, that can be looked back on for generations”
“Going through my grandfathers treasured old photo slides, I knew that I wanted to pursue the profession in which I could capture other peoples moments and turn them into everlasting memories and heirlooms, that could be looked back on for generations” he Christian Marc Photography is one of the most explains. sought-after wedding photographers on the Mornington Peninsula, and we can see why! One look onto the homepage of his website (www. Christian travels for his work around Australia and is christianmarcphotography.com) it’s clear to see he open to shooting destination weddings overseas. has perfected his dream. His portfolio is filled with photographs that capture the love, romance, I think we can all agree there are big and exciting happiness and connections behind them. From things to come for Christian Marc Photography in blushing brides, to cheeky grooms and the beautiful the future and we can’t wait to see what he creates moment when a father sees his daughter ready to next. walk down the aisle for the first time, Christian manages to capture moments usually confined to your memory, and brings them to life. Writer: Laura Cullen
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sum salT b
mmer body
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TIME TO gET SAlTy There is something alluring about looking at photos of bronzed skin women in bikinis swimming along what seems like an endless world of clear blue oceans, with the whitest sand and green juices on tap.
Cruelty free, suitable for vegans (yay) and all handmade, Summer Salt Body’s products range from Salt Scrubs, Natural Clay Masques & Bath Milks through to Body Oils.
However, living in Melbourne in the middle of winter – this lifestyle is just a fantasy which many of us quietly envy by hitting the ‘like’ button whilst snuggling up with a hot water bottle under a big doona, hair in a top-knot, chocolate stuffed in our mouths and a grunt to symbolise a need to feel even the slightest bit tropical & salty.
Inspired by the ocean and nature, these products will not only exfoliate your skin ridding it of all the nasties, but it will also naturally moisturise it, making it smoother than you could imagine. Every product is created with ingredients to benefit the mind, body and soul making this product a stand-out in the market place.
WELL envious Australians, we have found the answer to your salty prayers. We recently discovered the amazing range of natural salt scrubs and clay masques of Summer Salt Body and we are now feeling like we are Beyoncé on holiday after taking a dip in a watermelon infused ocean. True story!
We tested some of Summer Salt Body’s products personally, and can HIGHLY recommend you stop by their site www.summersaltbody.com and spoil yourself with a masque or two and a salt scrub. Our personal favourites: The Mandarin Salt Scrub & White Clay Masque. Prices start at just $16.00AUD.
The genius ladies behind Summer Salt Body Emily & Sarah, came up with this phenomenon whilst road tripping through Byron (could you be more creative?), and decided that they wanted to start their own affordable and natural beauty range for those of us who need a little body luxury.
Instagram @summer_salt Website www.summersaltbody.com
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l
p S A J e
Leah Jane Spain is an artistic force to be reckoned with. Her love of bold, vivid patterns and colours, inspired and influenced by Indian and Moroccan cultures led her to launch her brand and business, LeJasp in November 2014. Leah’s long-standing creative passions began to be imagined in a small business she previously owned in which she upcycled furniture. However, following three major hip operations, her creative dreams were put on the back burner and she was no longer physically able to continue upcycling. After several months of brainstorming and idea-searching, where working with wood and colour were always at the forefront of her imagination, LeJasp was borne. The desire to create something fun and exciting for the home became the focal point of her work and now Leah can proudly offer a range of stunning products which she personally describes as, “Wall Charms”. Heavily reliant upon a Mandala style, these “Wall Charms” are decorative, arty, expressive and vividly bohemian. The hanging, pendant-style, pieces look like chic, over-sized necklaces; something that wouldn’t look out of place hanging in a Campervan parked in a 1960s hippy commune, or strung from a row of tents at Coachella or Glastonbury music festival. They are imaginative, colourful and scream ‘FUN’. Speaking of fun, this is the one word that should be used to describe Leah’s and LeJasp’s character and work. It wouldn’t be outrageous to go as far as saying that the word fun should be synonymous with the LeJasp brand; for that is what the products are: fun. Since the launch in November 2014, LeJasp has surpassed 5k followers on Instagram. The website lejasp.com.au is receiving a great amount of traffic and Leah Spain herself has been in high demand, with an interview and feature in online homeware magazine, Winkelen. Because all LeJasp products are hand-sanded, painted and assembled by Leah herself just resonates the fact that she is serious about her work and loves creating with an open mind and an open heart. The materials used for the Wall Charms are pine ply and wherever possible, Leah tries to use local distributors and ensures that all the materials are from renewable sources. With some products on her website already sold out, it’s clear to see that LeJasp is a concept and brand that will hopefully continue to grow and expand as its popularity increases. Prices range from $90-280 but a range starting from as little as $20 is already in development. As it stands, Leah only ships within Australia but who knows what the future may bring as a LeJasp global domination could well be on the cards. Writer: Amy Farnworth
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eyoTA B O H O VI BI N G I N
TOU RQUAY , VICTORI A WITH
EYOTA CLOTHING
Just when you thought you’ve bought every staple for your wardrobe that you could possibly need, Eyota Clothing appears and adds another 3-4 pieces to your pile. This free-size, bohemian inspired clothing label is the newest sensation to hit the Australian market… and boy, are we excited! With most other Boho labels exceeding our teeny tiny budgets, Eyota is quickly becoming our credit cards best friend, with these laid-back kimonos priced at around $50.00 per item. Eyota is located in Torquay, Victoria, however with national shipping available; the opportunity to own one of these pieces is just a little too easy! Brodie, the visionary behind the Eyota label, has been a creative at heart her whole life. Whilst running her own beauty therapy business, ‘Surfcoast Beauty’ she acquired the business skills to delve straight into starting up her own clothing business. With no limits to her inspiration, Brodie has fast grown a boho clothing empire, with an ever-growing following on social media and popularity with her brand.
hooray! iT’S A P
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PUblIC HOliDAy HOORAY! It’s a Public Holiday! You know that feeling when there is a public holiday coming up? Like you can see a very bright light at the end of your ‘work tunnel’ and you’re so excited about relaxation that you could throw a party mid-week just because? Well, that’s the feeling we (coffee mug enthusiasts) get when we see a new product in the range from Public Holiday. Each piece is hand formed on the wheel and decorated – each in its own a unique piece of beautiful imperfection. Carly, the creative brain behind the brand, completed a Masters of Design in Materiality and creates her products with an emphasis on simplicity of form. “Inspiration is something that comes quite fluidly to me. It can be anything from graphic influences, to film, architecture and fashion. At the moment I am particularly inspired by textures, and love absorbing the world around me whether that be the urban environment and the grids of a milk crate or our amazing natural surroundings in that of a rocks speckle or lines of tree bark.” “There is something about the physicality of ceramics that really draws me in. That everything is influenced by the simple movements of my hands and that something dug from the earth can become a treasure object in someone’s life.” Each piece is a form of free movement, making each product unique to Carly’s aesthetic and to her brand. Prices range from small spoons at $15 to items such as vases at $60. www.itsapublicholiday.com THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 54
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HAPPINESS IS....
THE SMELL OF SCENTED CANDLES...
In a world full of soy candle manufactures’, it’s becoming extremely difficult to go out and choose your favourite. Which one burns longer, which brand has the scents I like... Why is this one cheaper or more expensive?! CHOICES. Sometimes.... you just need someone to make the decision for you. Three words.....MAX AND JACK. You’re welcome. Max & Jack is a a family owned and run business, based in Melbourne. Previously known as Burning Soy candles, Max & Jack pride themselves on quality products, each hand poured. The best thing about it is that anyone can have an incredibly beautiful smelling home or office with their extensive range of reed diffusers, scented soy candles and soy melts set at extremely affordable prices and available Australia-wide. Max & Jack tick all the boxes really.... - Affordable - Extensive range of scents (correction, yummy scents) - National Shipping - Australian Made - Long burn time (soy candles) Prices are starting at just $7.00 for the Soy Melts, and go up to $38.00 for the awesome Rock Collection Jars (a must see design - totally unique!) The biggest sellers are Lemongrass & Lime, French Pear, African Violet and Coconut Lemon & Lime. www.maxandjack.com..au facebook.com/maxandjackAU @maxandjackmelbourne
CAFE | RESTAURANT | EVENT |
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EAT
FIN E DINING | COFFEE | CHEF
HOBBA THE ASSEMBLY
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HOBBA
A TASTEFUL LOVE AFFAIR PRAHRAN, MELBOURNE
HOBBA
AN OH-SO-MELBOURNE EATERY FULL OF GREAT TASTES, VIBES AND PEEPS.
Hobba, situated just off busy and bustling Chapel Street, is a world in itself. Step inside to escape the rush of the Melbourne CBD and set your own pace whilst enjoying some delicious food and coffee. Samii, The Eye Creative Founder, and I, decided to check out Hobba for one of our regular morning meetings. Groggily walking in (neither of us are good before 8am or coffee), we immediately perked up at the delicious smell of freshly baked breakfast foods. A friendly face was there to greet us and show us to our seat and a coffee order was taken right away. Clearly, they understand what is important at this time of morning. We perused the menu, delighted to find a wide variety of delicious options to choose from; there were even options for little miss gluten and dairy intolerant…Ahem Samii! After ordering food and taking large sips of the amazing coffee it was time to take in the surroundings. Vintage glassware, booths with mis matched cushions, flower pots filled will chili plants, chalk boards on the walls with all the specials and Shaggy’s ‘Angel’ playing softly in the background (if that’s not a selling point for anyone who grew up in the 00’s I don’t know what is!) all makes up the special energy you feel at Hobba.
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It’s simultaneously relaxing and inspiring, as if you could sit there with a computer and finish replying to all those emails you ignored last night while watching Netflix with a glass of wine, or simply sit with a book and get lost in the relaxation of being on your own. Clarissa (a representative of Hobba) told us, “Hobba’s industrial aesthetic is very much inspired by its previous life as a tyre factory. Most of the interior furnishings are either originals or made from recycled materials.” You definitely get the feel of a second chance and opportunity here.
A MElbOURNE clASSIC, RE-bORN On the far right wall there is a humungous picture of a wolf. Clarissa explains “The wolf was chosen for our logo because it evokes a strong sense of family, while also upholding its individualism and free spirit. Our Wolf logo was designed by local artist Miso. If you look closely enough, the wolf carries the Melbourne city skyline on its back, which ties back to our inner-city community.” Calling their subscribers the ‘Wolf Pack’, community and support are high priorities for this family run eatery. Hobba regularly hosts pop up restaurants and private events. The next one coming up, The Assembly, is sure to be a hit. With two Melbourne chefs (Jordan Garcia and Daniel Sullivan) joining together to create a six course degustation menu, sourced locally and matched with a variety of Victorian wines, it’s a must see event.
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THE
ASSEMbly TWO YOUNG MELBOURNE-BASED CHEFS KNOCKING SENSE INTO YOUR TASTEBUDS
POP-UP FINE DINING
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THE ASSEMbly WHAT IS MORE ‘MELBOURNE’ THAN A POP-UP STYLE DINING EXPERIENCE, HELD IN 3 UNIQUE & ECLECTIC RESTAURANTS AROUND THE CITY, RUN BY TWO YOUNG CREATIVE CHEFS WHO ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR CRAFT? NOTHING...THAT’S WHAT.
Jordon & Daniel are only in their early 20’s, but these two forward-thinking, creative entrepreneurs are already making waves on the Melbourne foodie scene. Their upcoming pop-up dining events starting in August titled The Assembly, are already receiving large amounts of interest from all around the industry.
Listening to Daniel talk about the ideas for the menu was quite the experience in itself. With each word, he built the imaginary plate in front of me, ingredient by ingredient – so clear and precise that I couldn’t just see it in front of me; I could literally taste the flavours he was describing.
Whilst sitting down for a quick coffee before our exclusive photoshoot, I took advantage of the casual nature and started to chat to Daniel about the menu items we could be expecting from The Assembly. It became increasingly obvious the more he told me; just how much love and passion he has for food and his craft.
Both Jordan & Daniel have extensive backgrounds in the food industry with apprenticeships starting at the budding age of 15 years old. These two gun-chefs know their food. Like, really know their food. They also know their Melbourne aesthetics. Some of the best restaurants and foodie spaces are involved with the events being held at Mister Jennings, Hobba & The Boat Builders Yard.
Think modern-Australian cuisine…We’re talking classic, home-cooked meals that spark memories of your past. Food with a purpose, food with thought, food with a whole lotta love – created for you and constructed on a plate in ways that will blow your mind! We want you to take your imagination as far as it could possibly reach – then go even further. There was mention of redskins made of rhubarb…to be honest…he had me at redskins.
With approximately 30 seats per event available, it is NOW that you should book your seats. If you go, you may just be lucky enough to see me at the end of the night with a food baby and a big fat food-induced smile on my face. Now if that’s not a reason to buy a ticket, I don’t know what is. See you there! Instagram @theassembly_ Website www.theassemblymelbourne.com THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 70
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The vibe of Como Parade sends you to another reality and we’ve determined that it is all to do with their past and what their experiences have brought to the table. Emily’s past travels around the world to Morocco, Hong Kong and London have combined with her love of fresh, locally-sourced food. Together with Sue’s business knowledge, they’re succeeding in bringing a unique inner-city vibe hot spot to the centre of Mentone. A fresh multitude of salads are created every day, together with mouth-watering cakes and an extensive menu (including all day breakfast – HIGH FIVE) that changes when the mood swings or the season’s change, whichever comes first. A salad and a coffee off the menu will set you back around $15.00 which is not a big price to pay to be able to sit back in the eclectic, yet finely-tuned vibe of Como as it surrounds you in its entirety, allowing you drift from the modern world into your Fred Basset comics in the paper. (Needless to say the likes of Hamish Blake would love it here – Hamish, if you’re reading this; you’re welcome.)
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Look, it’s pretty simple. If you want a coffee smoother than Barry White and tastier than tasty cheese head over to Como Parade Cafe. They’re right next to Mentone Station, so Melbournites get going, before we drink them out of coffee! Oh, and tell Emily that Chris from The Eye Creative sent you. She will even say hello ;)
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eed to be. Her recently opened café digs; Como Parade with its eclectic and relaxed vibe, seriously delicious coffee hat warms the whole room. it, when we got the interview going we soon realised r and mum Sue can throw words around like some kind wer (for lack of a better word)…, cutting out the need for all except that initial big, warm hello.
e Cafe is one of our favourite morning grabs-on-the-go. love the reclaimed timber window next to the barista, offee blend (courtesy of the gods and all-round good oasters, Richmond), the Miles Davis-vibes, the black and ough red brick aesthetic and the way it just sits there ation being all cool and stuff.
n, it still feels hidden & exclusive. Amidst that busy train nge and people whizzing by fast-paced, this place still ve succeeded in putting the horizontal in laid-back; and eally into that. THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 74
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VERNAS KEEP LIV HEYER TOP 5 ALBUMS
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liV HEyEr
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“....I DON’T WANT TO BE ANOTHER STAR IN YOUR SKY...” Not to worry Liv Heyer, your musical talent has us thinking you’ll be lighting up the whole night sky in no time… The stars will be your audience and us humans will be swooning and swaying to your ever so beautiful tunes till the end of time. There’s nothing more exciting to us here at The Eye Creative, than to stumble across a hidden creative on our social media channels. We did a little stalking to find the gem that is Liv Heyer, and boy, did we discover a diamond or what!? We sat down (electronically) with the Brisbane stunner earlier this month to chat about her musical influences and how she’s coping with school & her career at the same time. Tell us about yourself Liv. When did you first discover your passion for music? I have loved music since I can remember! I have been singing for about 10 years and have played the guitar for 6 years. I grew up in a household where music was everywhere, so I guess it was inevitable that I would love music too. Having a musical household would have no doubt been an inspiration for you! However, if you had to pick the main influences of your musical style and taste, who would they be? Missy Higgens has always been a huge influence for me. She has such a unique and alternative sound and writes such amazing songs with meaningful lyrics. Also Ed Sheeran, but who doesn’t love him. Has there been a specific moment in your career (no matter how short or long) that really inspired you? Well 2 months ago, a couple of days after I put one of my originals on my Facebook, I walked into my maths class and heard a girl actually singing my song! I nearly died and was like ‘Omg you are singing my song’ and she said ‘Yes I absolutely love it and I can’t wait to get your album’ and I nearly cried then and there. Do you have an Aussie musical act that you are crushing on at the moment? All of the musicians from Australia are completely amazing! If I had to pick one, it would have to be good old Vance Joy… He is such a babe.
What is your musical style? I would definitely describe my music as edgy and slightly indie, but still originating from a popular culture. If you could collaborate with any Aussie musical artist/band who would it be? Definitely Missy Higgins! It would be amazing to work with her! How do you find juggling school with your music pursuits? Extremely hard at times. Playing usually 4 gigs a weekend and having to study to stay on top of my school work is super stressful, but I make it work to continue doing what I love. Are your family & friends supportive of your career choice? They are completely supportive! Especially my family. They drive me places, help me achieve my goals, and always help me improve where I can. They also carry my amps. Where can we hear more?? I have a full 12 track album coming out in the next few months, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it! But until then, keep on watching out on my Facebook - Liv Heyer Music, Instagram - @liv.heyer, and website www.livheyermusic.com to find out what I’m doing and where I’m playing! THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 78
prepare to swoon...
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Discovering the sounds of this band was like, for us – a bunch of caffeine addicts, taking that first sip of coffee in the morning. It awakened us, prepared us for the day ahead and kept us dreaming of far off lands where everything is bright, shiny and oh so delicious. The boys behind Vernas Keep sat down with The Eye recently and told us a little bit about themselves…and their strange but enjoyable ways. We adore their tunes and can’t wait for their EP release (Bones & Arrows) in August, but if nothing else, they’re a good looking, hilarious bunch of creative surfers from Bondi making sweet tunes ready to serenade you….and besides a good cup of strong coffee, what else could we possibly ask for!? What’s your story..How did you all meet? What’s our story? Once we were strangers, now we’re best pals brought together by music. Since inception, the band took a while to arrive at its current formation. Kyle met Eben through a fellow musician friend; through a mutual surfing pal, Joel was thrown into the mix, and after numerous drummers, another mate recommended Joe and now here we are! If you music could be the soundtrack to any movie, what film would that be? Have you seen the new Mad Max?! Joel made a cameo as the thrashing, blind, barbed in flaming red guitarist leading the chase! Haha, that’s hard; there are too many great films. Maybe the upcoming remake of Point Break..? Beside music, what other creative stuff are you into? Excluding Joel, we’re a bunch of creative wave dancers! Mad keen, frothing, stoked, salty sea dogs. Eben also does some watercolours, Kyle glues shells on things, Joe pens poetry and Joel has a collection of odd hats. Whats the next goal for the band? We were bummed we missed the support for the recent Backstreet Boys tour but rumour has it S Club 7 are doing a reunion tour…that would be mad crazy. What inspires you the most when writing? Being Present. Who writes the music in the band? Joe’s poems haven’t made it onto a track yet, however he is persistent, optimistic and unperturbed. Really, it’s a group effort.
What musicians inspired you to be where you are in life? Gary Numan. Did you know he invented the Compact Disc? Incredible. What puts you in the mood to create music? Guacamole. Piquantly, lemony & garlicy guacamole… too good. Tell us about one of the best memories of being in the band. Playing at Falls Festival in Byron at the start of year was probably one of the best memories so far. We played at 11am on New Year’s morning – which we were dreading for obvious reasons. It was about 45 degrees in the shade but within 5 minutes of starting, the tent started to fill up and everyone sat down and listed quietly and contently. Clearly they were all tremendously hungover and were probably unsure of which postcode their bodies were residing in but they clapped and cheered. It was awesome. Really, really awesome! Is there a release coming soon? YES!!! We are releasing our first Ep, Bones and Arrows in August. Where can we see you this coming July/August? Any special shows? July we’re shooting for an Unearthed slot at Splendour so everyone pretty please go to our Unearthed page, play our tracks & give them rave reviews. & August we’ll be touring the east coast for the release of Bones and Arrows. The dates are still coming together & will be released soon but we’ll be hitting Brisbane, Sydney & Melbourne with a few shows in between :) THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 82
DANIEL JOHNS TALK #1
The epitimy of bedroom music, this album has got to be the sexiest album released this year. Now, being true Silverchair fans from the days where Daniels hair dripped with grease and his dance moves consisted of a head bop and a half-arsed two-step, we are still finding his new “vibe” a little disconcerning. However, people change, and with the music he’s producing and writing, there;s not denying the guy is still, if not more of a genius than he ever was. Kudos Mr Johns. Kudos.
our TOP 4 AlbUMS BRITISH INDIA
NOTHING TOUCHES ME
#2
Shut up and take our money! Actually...bad idea. Don’t shut up. Keep singing sweet raw tunes boys. We’re suckers for a raw indie/ alternative sound with a voice that could be considered ‘pitchy’ but in all the right ways. The boys from British India are still killing it years on with this seriously sick album release. “Nothing touches me” - nothing quite like your music, British India...nothing quite like your music.... THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 83
DJANGO DJANGO BORN UNDER SATURN
#3
I’ve always felt that Django Django need their very own genre, because it’s really hard to nail exactly what their sound actually is classified by. My own opinion is that this second album release has placed them somewhere between old school surf-rock, alternative indie elctro and folk music. In all it’s strangeness (yes now making that a word), it actually works... It doesn’t seem like it would, yet it does...in a really “feel good” way. This album lifts you up quite like that first sip of coffee in the morning, and thats saying something!
SAN CISCO GRACELAND #4
San Cisco has this undeniable power to make any space a dancefloor with their upbeat catchy tunes. Whenever a tune of theirs hits my eardrums, my hands fly immediately up into the air and I start to dance around like one of those big blow up people out the front of car yards. This colourful release is nothing short of incredible and is high up on my replay list on the good old ipod. Highly reccomended for any day of the week.
EyE DISCOVER...
UP & COMING ARTISTS WE LOVE
Straalen “Hollow” straalenmccallum.com/ Lupa J “Quiet Here” soundcloud.com/lupajmusic Kate K Es “Did it Mean Anything” soundcloud.com/katekayes Astrid Zeman “Counting Sheep” soundcloud.com/astridzeman Red Moon “Lost” www.facebook.com/RedMoon321 THE EYE CREATIVE | P. 84
The Eye Creative www.theeyecreative.com info@theeyecreative.com
@theeyecreative /theeyecreative @theeyecreative