clog

We're moving... to The Craft Blog.

2012-01-20T12:00:00.000+11:00

Photo by Kimberly Chorney

Our suitcases are packed and we are ready as we'll ever be for the big move. We are hopping on the first train and heading straight for The Craft Blog. It's our latest project... A brand spanking new blog with the latest on art, craft and design especially for you. In saying this, don't worry, we're not saying farewell to clog, but rather see you later. Clog will stay active for an archive of all our posting goodness. Tell your friends, spread the world, today The Craft Blog is born.

Come and visit us over here.

Submit for Vimeo Awards: We vote for Allison Schulnik

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000+11:00

Who just loves to get lost in Vimeo, clicking between links of your favourite musicians and their film clips, losing yourself in magical stop motion and feeding the brain with docos of the world for hours on end!? We do and we're betting we're not alone. It's a jungle out there though, so you have to hop on the right path, know where you want to go, otherwise you might just find yourself in a puddle of corny mess.

So now the expedition is on, as Vimeo searches for the best works from all fields from the past year. Each category winner will win a glorious $5,000, with the overall winner scoring a whopping $25,000. As proud supporters of emerging artists, we think this is a pretty swell opportunity to not only help you fund your future creative ventures, but to also flood the online world with your magic. Some categories we think you might be interested are articulated as fashion, experimental, animation, motion graphics, music video and remix.

We certainly had a whole pool of favourites this year that we would watch over and over and share and smile at, but if we had to pick just one, we think this may win first prize. It's Mound by Allison Schulnik. You may remember her famous hobo the clown from Grizzly Bear's film clip Ready, Able, but really each and every piece by Allison is pure ecstasy in it's own psychedelic sombre way. Mound is her latest master creation that is guaranteed to take you to another world, a world of obscure alien/elf-like creatures, confused haunted angels and skeleton brides coming together to form a mound amongst shrooms and owls of the wilderness. Colour marbles through the land and it's inhabitants like ink droplets falling into water before the ballerinas of dismay dance us to an end. It's moving, poetic and romantically haunting. And you can watch it here.

But in the end, we're not the the experts on the panel, so if you have something to share, enter here and let the judges have their say. Submissions due 20 February, 2012.

Allison Schulnik, Mound, 2011

GaawaaMiyay: a Cloth collaboration

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000+11:00

Clothwork, a Cloth & GaawaaMiyay collaboration

Everyone has their dream collaboration project, that artist who you just love, whom you believe if you were to work with you could create something that is worthy of changing the world. For many Australian textile designers, we’re guessing that Cloth would feature at least in their top 5.

Clothwork, a Cloth & GaawaaMiyay collaboration

Now one little lady, with a whole lot of talent, culture and innovation has made the cut, being the first artist to collaborate with Julie Paterson of Cloth. Yuwaalaraay woman, Lucy Simpson began her very own textiles company in 2009, GaawaaMiyay, a company that deserves great credit and respect and fully worthy of the cloth collaboration. Drawing on inspiration for the land she stands on, Lucy shows respect for her country through her environmentally responsible practice with a contemporary Australian aesthetic. The collaboration with cloth, a limited edition range of cushions, tea towels and shoulder bags are available for purchase.

Beyond Cloth, GaawaaMiyay is standing strong on it’s own two feet. Story telling is translated through contemporary Indigenous designs, executed through stationery, bangles, scarves, tea towels, cushion s and lampshades. All products are created through a sustainable practice, utilizing natural fibres whilst being manufactured locally. Her work is vibrant and cultured, organic and real, as it tells the story of family and the Yuwaalaraay homeland. Work by GaawaaMiyay can be found at & Company, Antar, Cloth Fabric and Tali Gallery in NSW and is definitely worth a look and probably a feel too.

Exhibition Opening: Garry, Jacob & Kirsten.

2012-01-17T15:49:00.001+11:00

Garry Bish, The Vessel: A Space Oddity

A new year calls for a new exhibition with new works, new innovativeprocesses and new inspiring notions. This is why we shall proudly present toyou and invite you to our very first Exhibition Opening for 2012. In GalleryOne, Garry Bish will draw you into great depths with an architectural intelligencethat displays itself in the form of ceramic sculptures. His geometric virtuosityin The Vessel: A Space Oddity creates new perspectives and deviated forms thatmesmerise the eyes of any beholder. A few steps further and you will findyourself amongst a Pottery Practice Project by Jacob Ogden Smith in Gallery Two.This culture intense process-based work executes itself in the form of video,epitomising the value of the working development in the production of a final piece. Then as you peep around the corner into Gallery Three, Kirsten Perrywelcomes you to a world of her own, Home Time. The well-known Melbourne jewellerhas created another land, one that exists far from our own, one that hybrids industrial materials and mystical,emotional forms.

We are all lost in an abundance of cultured architectural ceramic worlds right now and we want you to be here with us. The opening will be happening this Thursday between 6 – 8pm 19January, but the exhibition will continue to run until 3 March, so please join us in this mesmerising state. Let us know ifwe should expect to be seeing you here. Until then...

come in, we're OPEN.

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000+11:00

Fabio Giannelli, Turning Open

Greetings two thousand and twelve! We have all had a nicelittle break here at Craft Vic and now we're feeling more refreshed and inspiredthan ever and raring to go for the New Year. An exciting year is in stall forus, which means that an exciting year is too, in stall for all of you. We have 3 exhibitions that are although tantalisingly subtle in medium are indeed aboutto come courageously to life in a bold and explorative means this Thursday night. Craft Hatch applications are open now for our March edition of our quarterly curatedcraft market and boy are we excited bysome of the entries that are swimming in. Our Membership program is thriving morethan ever and the shop if looking dashingly debonair to say the least. OurCraft Cubed Festival is in the works, with ideas being thrown about here, thereand everywhere. And last but most definitely not least, our latest venture, ourbrand new blog. Especially designed so that you can get more bang for yourbuck when you pop over to visit us with exciting stories, inspiring interviews and beautiful photographs.. We will be posting regularly on events,artists, our members, products and competitions through posts, interviews,editorial, studio visits and more. Keep an eye out for the spontaneous launch sometime this week. Oh and ps. We’re (Craft Victoria shop) back open, so come and say hi.

Coming soon...!

2012-01-13T15:01:00.001+11:00

Photo from here.

Oooh ahh do we have some exciting news for you!? We have been busy little beavers at Craft Vic. We've been designing, sourcing and deciphering code madly to present to you a new and improved blog for 2012. We will be posting daily with news, events, products, artists and resources on art, craft and design. There will be giveaways, interviews, studio visits and more. From now on we will always be on the lookout for quirky new products, quaint idea, opportunities for emerging makers and everything in between to provide our friends with all there is to know about craft in Melbourne and beyond. The new blog will be going live one day next week, you will just have to stay tuned to see which is the lucky day.

So now we just have a small couple of favours to ask of you:
1. Stay tuned for the revealing of our new site
2. Have a look around
3. Pop it on your favourites for easy access
4. Tell your friends about it
5. Let us know of any news you have that might be suitable for our page. Especially to our members, suppliers, partners and supporters... We want to be able to let everyone know about any exciting news you have to share. All submissions for potential posting should be sent through to craftvic@craftvic.org with BLOG SUBMISSION in the header.

The obliteration room (AKA the coloured dot room)

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000+11:00

Installation view of The obliteration room 2011 as part of ‘Yayoi Kusama: Look Now, See Forever’, GOMA

Yayoi Kusama has returned with yet again, another work of art, where the simplicity of forms and perfectly laundered concept are enabled to flourish through the interactive nature of the piece. Anyone who bought a Christmas present from us here at Craft Vic this year will know that we had quite a bit of fun with coloured circle stickers on our Chrissy wrapping. But not all of the gifts we wrapped put together could compare to the fun to be had in an installation piece like ‘The obliteration room’.

The typical Australian home, probably built for the mum, dad, 2.5 children and dog, was constructed and fitted with all locally made furniture. Designed and fitted by a renowned to be somewhat controversial artist, one might think this room to be slightly void of warmth and character. But this piece was not built to be a static work of art, like everything in the world it changes as interactions, or even obliterations take place. Minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day the room is flooded with visitors from all walks of life. They visit this blank canvas of a home as they are invited to demolish the stark sterile surface through the application of coloured, multi-sized circle stickers. As the walls, ornaments and furniture are annihilated with colour and pattern, the entire room morphs as dimensions distort and space diminishes in square meters, but inflates with life.

Only one work of many, Queensland’s Gallery of Modern Art currently is housing the entire collection by Yayoi Kusama, Look Now, See Forever. The exhibition will run until 11 March 2012, so if you happen to assist population in the northern part of our country, or even if you’re lucky enough to be holidaying these summer months, we recommend a visit to the Queensland Art Gallery, GOMA. Best of luck in finding any wall space left to mark your spot though.

Makers of Easter crafts, this is for you!

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000+11:00

How to decorate your easter-eggs?

Dutch Magazine "Ariadne", 1976-1979

Now we know for a fact that there are many of you out there who make wonderfully snuggly, yet joyfully chirpy crafts for easter. For a starters, this wee knitted duck egg warmer , from Loope, is the perfect accessory for the easter period to keep that freshly boiled egg nice and cosy whilst you're busy in the garden hunting for chocolates. Speaking of which, we recommend that you utilise this piece for eggs of the chicken variety as opposed to the chocolate sort, unless you enjoy a nicely melted easter treat that is.

So anyway, back on track, Milk Magazine is on the hunt, literally, for some quaint as quaint can be easter crafts to feature in their editorial section of the mag. From clothing, to baskets, chocolates to ornaments, so long as it is hand-made in Australia, they want to know about it! If you're from Gippsland it's a bonus, but otherwise just make sure your product is available for purchase online. Chop chop though, the hunt is almost up. To be considered, one must send their work in here, by 5pm, 13 January. We know, we know Christmas has just finished and already Easter prep has begun. Think of the positives though, it won't be long until we'll have another excuse to fill our bellies with chocolate whilst painting and decorating eggs for kitsch ornamentation of our interiors. Yum and yum!

Say yes to Containment Structure at No No

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000+11:00

Stephanie Hicks, Untitled, collage, 2011

Remember Stephanie Hicks from 2010’s Craft Cubed Festival? If yes, then you obviously love her as much as we do and will want to learn of this news immediately and if not, this is a prime opportunity to refresh your memory. Stephanie will be joining creative forces with Heidi Holmes, Clare McCracken, Daniel Jenatsch and Jessica Brent for a Roger Nelson curated exhibition at No No Gallery. The group exhibition, Containment Structure evokes liberty through the artificial construction of creative limitations. It exposes the innovation that accumulates through remaining within strict boundaries and borders as an artist at work. Whilst the artists have set themselves a task to reside in the bounds of their own confines, the end results challenge their intention as the works surge outside the square. Say yes to attending Containment Structure at No No Gallery (14 Raglan Street North Melbourne) this Thursday 12 January, 6-8pm. And if you say maybe or no, then hopefully you can say yes to popping in at a later date, as the exhibition will run right through until 28 January.

Lanz + Martin: designing for the creative world

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000+11:00

Craft Cubed Festival, Craft Victoria, 2011

High Noon Festival, Northcote, 2011

Playful, thoughtful, innovative and tight- this is the design of Lanz + Martin. This Melbourne-based design studio has tackled some of the most creative festivals and projects in Australia, consistently delivering the goods. Not only are they authentic and continually pushing new ground, they are reliable and approachable with communication skills that strive in this industry. The reason we know this? Because they were the genius behind last years Craft Cubed Festival Design.

So as mates of ours, naturally we like to keep up to date with their happenings. To our pleasant surprise, as we were wandering the World Wide Web the other day, we were surprised and to be honest overwhelmed with joy when their new website jumped up in front of us. It’s clean, interactive and oodles of fun, as it showcases their portfolio with the presence it deserves.

You may even be more familiar with their work than you realise. Their polished vibrant illustrative work in Northcote’s High Noon Festival was eye-catching and youthful creating the carnival like atmosphere they had aimed for. Newcastle’s This is not art Festival called for a more organic touch, as subtle watercolour illustrations juxtaposed themselves against a strong grid of typographic content. Their connection to the earth, something we at Craft Vic are always keen to see, was evident in their work for non-for-profit organisation, Morel and Energy Foundation. Their dexterity in illustration shined through as the minimalist figures pop within the limited palette, allowing the witty concept to deliver with ease. Furthermore, Lanz + Martin explore the publication side of creating, designing the complete layout and cover for Australian writing journal, Harvest. The publication is subtle and considered with an intellectual feel that has a certain softness to it.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a design studio with a unique balance between colourful creative fun and tight clean effective design then we have done the hard work for you. All you have to do know is have a look through their body of work here and then follow with a tingle or some mail of the technological variety. We doubt you would end up being anything less than radically impressed.

Holiday craft fun for the kids.

2012-01-08T07:00:00.001+11:00

Children Finger Painting, photo from here

Had any me time this summer for some creative projects? We do hope so, but just in case you’re one of our friends who has a little one trotting around your ankles this summer, who although makes you smile, isn’t exactly offering you a whole lot of free time for all those craft projects you had planned, we thought we would step in and source a solution. Reward your little you by popping them in one of these Kids Holiday Programs, whilst you go off to adult holiday program. Brilliant, yes? To be honest, we think it’s a shame that these particular classes aren’t on offer for the adults of the world too. And might we ask where were programs like this when we were wee little rascals?

The lucky little youth of today have been offered one huge creative head-start with options to get their hands dirty in classes where you can cook, make a stop motion animation, draw with light, make jewellery or free the spirit with some creative dance or of course, the option we would opt for, all of the above. The program runs from 9 January – 17 January and is open to children between the ages of 3 and 14.

So, now there is no need to feel guilty by indulging in a little you-time to make those cushions, sew that summer frock or enrol in that pottery class you’ve been eyeing off all summer. The kids will love this craft fun time as much as you will. Don’t thank us, we’re just the messenger, Gasworks are the mastermind behind this gem of a Holiday Program.

Blanche Tilden and the culture of jewellery.

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000+11:00

Blanche Tilden

Last December, ABC Radio National featured an interview in their By Design program with renowned Melbourne Jeweller, Blanche Tilden. As a member of Craft Victoria and as a previous exhibitor here at our gallery, we have to admit to getting a little fuzzy inside when we heard her words. Blanche discusses the idea of her jewellery being synonymous with architecture and how and why that connection originated. She explores what it is about glass that mesmerises her, whilst discussing her love affair with mechanical materials, such as pulleys and cogs. With more than 12 years experience on her back now, you will find it difficult to come across a talent that has as much experience and knowledge of the art form. Pour yourself a cup of tea, set yourself up on the couch, pop computer to lap and head to ABC to listen to the full interview. A perfect outlet for a Saturday afternoon, we think.

JOB CALL: It's resume writing time...!

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

Weofficially declare the next week to be the week of resume writing. And it looks like it might be the perfect weather for it too, with that horrid heat having passed. Everyone knows that agood career in the arts is hard to stumble upon and as a small team here atCraft Vic with a slow turnover, the call for a new Coordinating Curator is a rare and unique one indeed. Now, hopefullyyou have something a little more tech savvy to fill out your application thanthis hairy man, but then again there is a certain charm to the typewriter, isn’t there? There are someselection criteria that one is required to fill out and send through along witha Cover Letter and Resume. No need to get your knickers in a knot though, it shall not take so muchtime that your beard will grow this long... We just want to get to know you a little, so to speak. All applications should head to Joe Pascoe before12pm Monday 16 January 2012. We look forward to reading the words that youwrite for us.

Old is the new new.

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000+11:00

Home of Penelope Durston.

Our very own Board Member, Craft Victoria Shop supplier and dear friend, Penelope Durston gets in on the action as Lindy Percival digs deep to find out why old has become the new new. In this editorial piece, The new age of old, presented by The Age, Percival delves thoughtfully into the historical relevance of the concept ‘Make Do and Mend’, the carbon count of new versus old and the influence of technology in making DIY and craft accessible to all. Pene Durston speaks of the previous lapse in the craft movement and the importance of it's current revolution, "In the '70s, women were told 'don't cook, don't make clothes for your family, go out to get a job'. There's a generation of women whose mothers went back to work ... It was the rise of consumerism, you had more money, so you bought clothes, you didn't make them ... [their children] missed out on learning to do things with their hands, getting their hands dirty." If you’re someone getting their hands dirty, or even someone who wants to, this is a must-read article that presents the positive impact of re-cycling, re-vamping, making your own, doing it yourself and craft in general on society, the environment and the heart.

Pauls - milking designers for what they're worth.

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000+11:00

Over the summer we have been enjoying plenty of strawberry milkshakes, iced coffees and fresh fruit smoothies. And the one common ingredient that satisfies all our favourite summer drinks… Good old fashioned milk. The taste is refreshing, the feeling is calming, the calcium is strengthening our bones, but there is just one thing that we believe could be added to the mix to really top off the entire milk experience – a sweet pure artwork on the carton to offer a little creative inspiration for us trying to create the dream summer beverage concoction. So Pauls Milk read our minds and have come up with a competition for all of you designers, illustrators and artists out there to go into the running to have your artwork on the side of a Rev Milk Carton for 2012! And to top it all off, this little promo is to help celebrate their new environmentally friendly FSC-certified packaging. (Go Pauls!) The winner will also find themselves with a one year subscription to Desktop Magazine and a $500 Whirlwind print voucher. Make sure to have a good read of the terms and conditions here and set an alarm clock for 16 January for the competition deadline. We love our milk, we love the environment and we certainly love design, so yes, we love you Pauls.

Midnight in Paris in Abbotsford

2012-01-03T09:53:00.002+11:00

Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris, 2011

Imagine yourself lying in the gardens of river meets flora. You lie on a blanket with champagne in hand whilst friends surround. Hemingway takes you on a wild adventure with his endless gallivanting, whilst Dali pops by and Picasso swings past. As the sun is sets you think you are either in a past world of Paris or your imagination, when all this magic is really happening in the heart of Melbourne in your reality. This summer, The Shadow Electric blesses Melbourne with our very own one and only, independent open-air cinema. On the grounds of the historical Abbotsford Convent, people from around the city are beginning to flock to the outdoor cinema for drinks, nibbles and the epitome of a cultured summer experience. Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris shall screen on Saturday 14 January, where the crowd shall be taken on a journey into the past, the past of 1920’s creativity in Paris. We’ve discovered that tickets are selling at the speed of light and thus thought we would do the courteous thing of giving a heads up to our friends. For $19 Adult or $16 Concessions, tickets can be pre-booked here. The doors to 1 St. Helliers Street, Abbotsford shall open at 6pm. Already seen the film and not quite yet up for round two? Keep smiling, as there is an extensive program that continues through to April and it is ready right here for your browsing pleasure.

Toasting to a Happy New Year !!

2011-12-31T16:37:00.002+11:00

Can you believe it, another year gone!? Well it was

a swell year for us at Craft Victoria as we hope it

was for you, too. Let us hope that 2012 bring us the same goodness and spreads it to all of our friends

in the process.

Tonight is going to be a toasty New Years Eve in Melbourne (and tomorrow shall bring us an even toastier beginning for the year to come). We've spent our summer break brain-storming our idea of the perfect New Years Eve and we've decided it would sound something like this: nice wine, fresh fruit and cheese & biccies on a picnic rug on fresh green grass in a city garden with some cheery, bright and warm-loving friends. All pretty do-able, the only real question is, what wine to dine with...?

When it comes to picking the perfect wine for the perfect occasion, for us, it's all about the prefect label. And have we found the perfect labels!? Cake Wines have a new sav blanc and cab merlot with psychedelic labels deigned by the wonderfully talented Beci Orpin and Kill Pixie.

So, with a glass in our hand, we make a toast to you all: Thanking you all kindly for a year of inspiration and exploration, wishing you all a happy and creative year in 2012 and we cannot wait to continue working with you all to spread your artistic flair! Happy New Year!

Resolution #4: Hungry to get cooking...

2011-12-30T17:13:00.000+11:00

Hungry Girls Cookbook Volume 3, Yogurt and White Chocolate Pannacotta

Who has spent this festive season eating? We have. We have been eating everything and anything, because that's what you do this time of year. When you go over to dear old Auntie Nance's and she bakes 5 different types of cakes, you must try at least one slice of each. After all, no one wants to offend this time of the year. So after tasting at least 50 new recipes in the last 10 days, we have decided that we are all inspired for some good old-fashioned cooking in 2012. We want to cook healthy, with ingredients that we buy fresh from the farmers markets during the week and dabble in some sweet treats on the week ends. This Yogurt and white chocolate pannacotta from The Hungry Girls Cookbook Volume 3 has caught our eye, so much so that this might go straight to the first week end of the New Year. Might have to get us some of those darling kitsch 50's plates too, to really seal the deal.

Maybe a little on the fussy side? No need to fret... With 3 Volumes out now, The Hungry Girls have recipes catering to all palette types and occasions. Note to self - the first two volumes are especially handy to all those vegetarians. A copy can be yours for a mere $35 and can be purchased from numerous spots around Australia and even abroad. Craft Victoria has copies of Volume 1, 2 & 3 at 31 Flinders Lane.

Resolution #3: pick more fresh flowers

2011-12-28T13:47:00.001+11:00

Grab your big hardy metal scissors, chuck on some gumboots and take a waltz in the garden. Find some flowers, cut them at their roots and carefully arrange them in your most treasured vase. Now, go about your business, run some errands, have a coffee or go for a bike ride. Then come back into your home, have one big whiff and tell us that there is a better feeling than walking into a room filled with fresh flowers!? Well let's be honest, there probably is, but no need to dampen the point we're trying to make, fresh flowers still rank pretty highly. So our New Year's Resolution #3 is to make sure there are more fresh flowers in beautiful vases around the place to offer a little freshness to the senses. Don't forget that even flowers have feelings and they deserve as good a home as any. Finding the perfect home for the perfect bunch isn't always easy, so we've done a little groundwork on your behalf. This one would work for the one who is till looking for that special somebody, this is perfect for the breed that has always yearned for green stems, here we've found a home for those in search of a delicate simplicity, oh and this one is a roses dream, with that rugged finish to cuddle those spikey thorns. And remember there is always plenty more to choose from down at 31 Flinders Lane - re-opening for the New Year on 16 January, 2012.

Resolution #2: Make washing the dishes fun!

2011-12-27T11:18:00.000+11:00

Third Drawer Down, Katherine Brickman Winning Tea Towel

We’re pretty good, but like everyone, we could be better. The roster has been drawn up, with every person on a specific day, so we think that it is more of an issue of inspiration over organisation. After all, washing the dishes is a pretty hard chore to feel inspired about. So this coming year, New Year’s Resolution #2 is to make sure the dishes are not only done every day, but they are done with a feeling of creativity in a flamboyant manner. Sing a tune in the process, dance while you wash or imagine you’re bathing in a bubble bath as your smell the soap foam. Whichever way you please, try turning your chores into an art form in itself that floods with creative suds. Third Drawer Down have certainly managed to create a creativity/chore hybrid with their limited edition artist print tea towels. We think this Katherine Brickman Winning Tea Towel pegged above our sink might assist us with truly triumphing in the dishes department. With them all being limited edition and 100% linen, with screen prints of quirky artworks, we think that they may suit better to inspiring one to do the dishes, rather than actually assisting (well, that is our plan at least).

Resolution #1: More DIY Projects

2011-12-26T20:09:00.000+11:00

Cut & Paste, Richard Brereton and Caroline Roberts
available at Craft Victoria

Christmas comes and goes like there’s no tomorrow, yet we all know that there always is, a tomorrow that is. So rather than dwelling on the fact that there are no more presents to come and our bellies are as full as balloons, we thought we would focus on looking forward. 2011 has been a swell year, but there are always some slight tweaks to be made when planning for the New Year. So between now and 01 January, we are going to put pencil to paper to create our resolutions for the year to come.

So coming in at number 1, is to not only think about, but actively partake in plentiful amounts of DIY projects. For some reason these crafty little hands on projects seem to fall under the same umbrella as cooking a nice meal after a hard days work. We know it can be a ball, we know that we feel amazing for it, yet for some peculiar reason we tell ourselves we deserve a break, when really this is the optimum break. Well not this year. This year we are treating ourselves kindly and committing to the indulgence of sitting back with paper, scissors and glue and going to town. We’re thinking that if Cut & Paste replaces the current coffee table book, we might not be able to hold back from DIY even if we try. With stories and inspirational works from more than 40 artists of the collage tribe, who wouldn’t want get cutting and pasting!?

Be yourself this Christmas

2011-12-25T08:59:00.001+11:00

The best Christmas gift

Embrace your quirky and unique qualities today, rembering that those who love you shall love you for who you really are. Be yourself today and then continue to be so for everyday in 2012. We found this sweet stop motion, as a little token gift from us to you to say thank you for a wonderful year. From all of us at Craft Victoria, Merry Christmas as we wish you the lovliest of lovely days. xx

Hundreds and thousands Chrissy decorations

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000+11:00

Christmas is sneaking up on us all with the smoothness and suaveness of an inspector gadget like character and to be frank, we’re not impressed. All those DIY Chrismas decoration projects are looking like they are going to have to be thrown out the window. So we thought, if we’re in this sticky situation, others quite possibly will be too. So onto that nifty little world wide web we hopped in the search for some quick and easy crafty decoration ideas to blow the fam and friends away and look what we have found... Christmas tree decorations filled with hundreds and thousands!! YUM with a capital Y, U and M! They are quick, easy and sure to brighten up everyone’s day whether their list to santa was fulfilled or not. Just make sure the kids don’t eat them (or the dog for that matter). Note to all: Matching nails aren't a necessity, but will definitely add to the overall effect significantly.

NOW HIRING: See yourself as Craft Vic's Curator!?

2011-12-23T14:21:00.000+11:00

Craft Victoria, Bless, 2011

Today a dream Christmas present arrives for a particular somebody. As sad as we may be to say good-bye to the talented and charismatic Nella Themelios we are certainly excited to invite a new member into the Craft Victoria Team. If you can see yourself as Craft Victoria's Coordinating Curator then be sure to apply, afterall you have to be in it to win it. The position description can be found here and be sure to include a Cover Letter, CV and a response the Key Selection Criteria in your application. Applications must be sent to CEO and Artistic Director, Joe Pascoe by no later than 12pm Monday 16 January 2012.

A present for each and every type!

2011-12-23T09:58:00.000+11:00

With today being our last day of trading and all before Christmas, we thought we should, well, flaunt it while we've got it, so to speak. After much sincere thought and time we proudly present to you 12 individually picked items that will cover all your Christmas shopping needs. With various prices, mediums and points of interest we offer to you a glimpse into the picturesque array of product we have available. With literally hundreds of suppliers,the process of narrowing the peek down to 12 was a hefty task indeed to place upon ourselves. All available at 31 Flinders Lane and don't forget... We're open until a glorious 6PM tonight.

From left to right, top to bottom...we have for you the perfect piece for:

1. The new edition to the family - Made By Mosey, Sky Blue Cloud Mobile, $65.00
2. The father who has taken up cooking upon retirement - Notts Timber, Wooden Spoon, $20.50
3. The terrible two-year-old who is in need of a role model - Handmade Romance, Bow Tie Boy, $85.00
4. The crafternoon lady - Art Viva, Knitting Needles, $20.00
5. The hostess with the mostess - Little Circus Design, Timber Bird Mobile $200.00

6. The girl who has everything - Dani M, Necklace, $150.00
7. The bearded boyfriend - Handmade Romance, Beaded Bloke Brooch, $37.00
8. The brains of the family - Kirsten Perry, Brain Necklace, $110.00
9. The colourfully fashionable bedtime reader - Sequins & Sequence, Kat Macleod, $20.00
10. The on-the-go caffeine queen - Craft Victoria, Coffee Cup, $30.00
11. The kitchen baker who's hungry for a new challenge - Hungry Girls, Cookbook, $35.00
12. The girl who wears either silver or gold (but you cannot remember)

- Milly Flemming - Double Soft Triangle Necklace $185.00

These are a few of our favourite things.

2011-12-22T07:37:00.002+11:00

We’ve been busy little beavers here at Craft Victoria. So busy that before last night, we hadn’t even gotten around to sending our wish list off to the north pole. Let’s hope the express post envelope does it’s job. The ladies behind our counter have the best view around town. They get to see it as soon as it arrives, find the perfect spot in the shop for it and offer a helping hand and sometimes some advice too, to those trying on, considering or simply going about their shopping business. So if anyone has had their dream santa stocking fillers rubbed in their face, it’s these little ladies. We all love each and every piece, but we cannot refute it, certain pieces have definitely caught the eye. Pop down to Craft Victoria, 31 Flinders Lane today, where the ladies shall cater to all of your craft needs. With only today and tomorrow left for trading, you will find our door wide open until the unique 6PM.

A telegram to all the Melbourne Makers:

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000+11:00

James Greenfield, Bunting, 2005

Giving DIY the credit it deserves, whilst offering local makers the opportunity to flaunt their talents is the very special Melbourne Maker Faire. There will be workshops, presentations, exhibition stalls, installations and copiousness amounts more. So to all those Melbourne makers out there, we know of your meticulous handicraft skills, but why not spread the love a little further so that everybody who wants to know you, knows you. Apply now to get your foot, or maybe even your feet if you're lucky in the door that opens up a whole new world of prospects. And to all the lovers of craft, rather than makers, just because you cannot host a stall, does not mean there is no fun to be had. The Faire shall be taking place on Saturday 14 January from 10am – 4pm at The Atrium, Swinburne University of Technology, 467 Burwood Road, Hawthorn. So start wearing in that 2012 diary by pencilling in the details, so they cannot escape one's busy festive mind.

Call for entries: Gaps Amid Translation

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000+11:00

Ash Keating, Label Land, 2009, Human Rights Arts and Film Festival

Whilst we're crossing cultures, languages or even mediums, nothing can ever translate wholly and fully. When we write words, they never sound the same as the time they are spoken. Visiting a country cannot possibly touch on being a perminent resident. And so the story of the gaps within intended translation form. Hans George Gadamer articulates, “The process of translating comprises in its essence the whole secret of human understanding of the world and of social communication.” This notion has shaped the essence for this year’s Human Rights Arts and Film Festival Art Exhibition, titled 'Gaps Amid Translation'. The call for entries is out and before we know it the call will be coming to an end. HRAFF warmly invites established artists to submit their work for the potential for involvement in the 2012 exhibition. An honour exists within this exalted opportunity to take part in a festival that promotes such social equality, knowledge and education within the arts and film worlds. Artists can apply until the Thursday 22 December. Not an artist? There are still plentiful ways to tip your toe in HRAFF experience. They’re always seeking dedicated and passionate volunteers to work with and there will be a bundle and a half of events, programs and other bits and bobs to see, do and engage with during the festival itself, 12 – 27 May 2012. A fortnight to highlight in next year's calendar we think.

25 films you must see before you die.

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000+11:00

Jean-PierreJeunet, Amélie, 2001

Have we mentioned that we love a good list? Maybe it’ssomething about consolidating the endless options the world now provides ormaybe it’s the concept of ticking things off that evokes that senseof achievement. Whatever it is, there’s no denying it, we enjoy a sharp, definedcreative list to chew our teeth into like nothing else. Now Artshub have doneall the dirty work for us, compiling this super spectacular list of25 films you must see before you die. This is a considerably strong statementand knowing their credibility and the uncertainty of when that time may come, weadvise you start watching. Making number one, is the magic of Jean-PierreJeunet’s Amélie. With a soundtrack that makes you melt accompaning Audrey Tautou as the lead in that saturated green cinematography that has been editedto make you feel like you're in some frenzied dream state.. How can one not fall in love!?Amélie calms our nerves as we learn that having a little weird in us, isn’tnecessarily a bad thing. Number 1 is now ticked off and we are off to a swell start – now it’s time tomove down the list. Life Is Beautiful makes number two, sitting just in frontof Cinema Paradiso. Coming it at numberfour is the foreign masterpiece Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and just sliding into the top five is City of God. We didn’t want to overwhelm so we've just listed five fornow, but when you’re ready the full 25 can be found here.

Ken Done is Something Else.

2011-12-18T07:00:00.000+11:00

Something Else, Ken Done Painted Dress

We got so excited about collaborations on Friday with all that talk of the Katherine/Ingrid hybrid dream beakers that we thought we re-visit the topic of partnerships that really are Something Else. On that note, Ken Done, iconic Australian artist, has recently joined forces with well-known retail collaboration specialists, Something Else. Done’s symbolic coral reef artworks have been digitally remixed by Art Director, George Barnes, where they feature as the prime imagery for the Summer 11/12 Range, Submerge. The range is romantic with sinuous lines that evoke a warm summer calm. Have a peek online to explore a video piece dedicated to the Something/Done blend of Submerge and to view the entire range.

Westspace Pong Tournament: today!

2011-12-17T07:00:00.001+11:00

Nothing screams Christmas Party quite like a ping pong tournament on an artist designed tennis table, with some bevvies and nibbles in an Art Gallery. It’s the Westspace Christmas Party and whilst we can pretend it’s all about celebrating this festive season, everyone really knows it’s all about the pong. Laith McGregor exposed himself as he mapped his thoughts on paper to make up the artwork that acts as the base of the table. This is not an elitist artwork bound by ropes for people to view at a distance, stare at for hours with mysterious eyes, whilst scholarly mumble jumble is thrown about. The piece is explorative, interactive and accessible, as visitors are welcomed to engage as they pop bat to hand ready for battle. The supporting wall of blackboard paint re-iterates this communal process, as people write, mark and doodle freely with chalk.

The nitty gritty: The party will happen from 5-8pm down at Westspace Gallery, Level 1, 225 Bourke Street Melbourne.
The evening will even feature an exclusive Christmas special in the form of an Andrew Sinclair and Scott Mitchell installation piece. But most importantly... The table tennis tournament will commence at 5.30pm. But remember, you must REGISTER by 5pm!

Laith McGregor, Pong Ping Paradise

Katherine + Ingrid = dream beakers

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000+11:00

Katherine Bowman & Ingrid Tufts, limted edition beakers, available here

Cookies andcream, needle and thread, Andy and Edie… some things just work together so wellthat the fusion itself almost becomes an art form in its own right. This kind oforganic velvety collision occurred when Katherine popped pencil topaper, whilst Ingrid hopped on the wheel with the jewel of anillustration to work with. Renowned jeweler, illustrator and sculptor,Katherine Bowman joined forces with notorious ceramicist, Ingrid Tufts, fora dream collaboration on behalf of Craft Victoria. Two ranges of limitededition porcelain beakers (AKA coffee cups) are now exclusively available at ourshop, 31 Flinders Lane, or our Online Store. They make a perfect morning coffeecup, a delightful dusk teacup and are the perfect option for a take-away keepcup, sized especially to fit a standard take-away lid. Delicate to hold, sturdyto wash and dreamy to stare at all day long – this beaker encompasses all you couldwant and more. There are only 50 of each available, well at least that's how it started off. They’re practically rolling out of the store. These collectors pieces areavailable for a neat $30 each. Pop by or pop online to seal the deal.

Craft was born again - Saturday's Craft Hatch

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000+11:00

As the sun rose last Saturday morning, makers from around Victoria gathered to the Bend with their giant pack of goods thrown over their shoulders. As the clocked ticked over, they meticulously merchandised their stalls, as curator, Kim Brockett frolicked about ensuring everything was in order for the greatly anticipated Christmas edition of Craft Hatch... And in order it was. The clock ticked eleven and in they came, people from all walks of life searching for that perfect something, which may we add, many of them found. The day was full of everything a market day is supposed to be full of – crafts, bunting, tea, shoppers wearing cute socks, laughs, smiles and everything in between. The makers went home with a lighter load, as visitors carefully carried home the goods. All in all, we shall crown it a success! Now we’re just hanging out for the next one. Applications are open now for our March market. Saturday 17 March is when the re-living shall take place. If you can imagine yourself packing up your crafts to show them off on a beautifully designed market stall at a beautifully curated market, then perhaps you best apply here. The full album of pretty pictures by the lovely Kim Brockett can be found just a hop, click and jump away.

All photos by Kim Brockett, 2011

500 methods for a new beginning:

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000+11:00

Sid Cattaneo, Tuscan bedroom at sunset

There is something about a list that someone else has created for you to help you remember life's little gifts again. Finally there is some motivation to get up early one morning and not just see the sun rise, but actually wait for it to break over the distant hills. We all need a token muse one time or another and a project or two or five-hundred that promote a new beginning may just be what the doctor ordered. Next Wave presents Keynote Project. A website dedicated to short, simple innovative projects for you to involve yourself in.

Short-listed on our project plan are:
19. Make things from scratch - put it all together from the very start with your own hands, no shortcuts. Elysha Gould, QLD
36. Think of the happiest colour (it's clearly yellow). Paint everything that colour. Anne-Louise Sarks , VIC
55. Invite a stranger to play a board game and have a cup of tea with you. Thomas Tu, SA
119. Balloon Photography. Attach a digital camera with a timer trigger to a balloon on a length of string. Gain a new perspective! Dean Petersen , VIC

We're hungry for some of these...

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000+11:00

Dawn Tan, Burger Plate, available at Douglas & Hope

How about that feeling when you’ve ordered the most enormous burgerin the world, you feel like you’ve been eating for forever until you look downand it looks like you haven’t even touched it? Well you can feel like you have afull meal ahead of you all day every day now and a cup of fries too with Dawn Tan’s Burger Plate,thanks to Douglas and Hope. Although they have sadly finally said good-bye to their Fitzroy store, D&H are still very much alive in the worlds of online and craft markets. One of their latest ventures... Picking the crème of thecrop in the illustration scene and asking them to kindly design a plate oftheir own. On offer are plates by Miranda Skoczek, Miso, Ghostpatrol, Dawn Tanand Sunday Morning Design. All pieces are pretty as a picnic and can be boughtonline here.

announcement re: La Biennale di Venezia

2011-12-12T10:28:00.001+11:00

supermanoeuvre, Interface

People gather there from all around the world. They visit this island over the European summer to wander around the gardens, hopping between pavilions of cultural inspiration. You feel as if you’re teleporting between countries, as cities that exist miles away in reality can be seen within a few footsteps of one another. With art presenting itself in our current year of 2011, next year shall fall under the canopy of architecture. The Venice Biennale encapsulates a global exhibition that is raw in essence, yet prestigious in quality. From 124 applications, the final six have now been chosen for 2012’s Architecture Exhibition. Healthabitat, supermanoeuvre, Richard Goodwin Pty Ltd, 2112 Ai (100YR City), The Architects Radio Show and Archrival shall join forces on a collaboration of a lifetime. Pooling their talents and expertise, we are dreaming of an innovative computational social response to the challenges of urban living, sustainability and politics on a global level.

Harvest Market - Line-up released.

2011-12-11T07:00:00.000+11:00

After last year's highly successful workroom Xmas Market, Harvest Textiles have decided to come back for more. The line-up has been highly anticipated amongst the craft community and now it's out and here for us to get uber excited about. Harvest shall headline, with supporting artists Beci Orpin, Douglas & Hope, Sunday Morning Designs, Miniscapes, Emily Green, Dani M and Inklet making behind stall appearances. With rows of stalls lined up for your viewing pleasure with a craft stall for the kiddies, gift-wrapping, crafternoon activities and scrumptious bites, there is no reason not to drop by. The actual market shall be open on Sunday 18 December, 10am - 5pm at Harvest Workroom, 512 Lygon Street, East Brunswick. Note to self: If one cannot make the market itself, the Harvest Storeroom will be open between 9 – 24 December featuring some of the same artists and some others too. Works by Dawn Tan, Ask Alice and Golden Ink amongst others will be available for purchase. One for the diary we think.

Competition: Lifting the spirits of our creative youth

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000+11:00

Jodee Knowles, She-Goat, Visual Arts entrant

It may be an inspiring existence, but life as a young emerging creative isn’t exactly a life of painting and parties. In fact, sometimes it can become such a mumble jumble that we can feel as if we've toppled over into some obscure yogic inversion. So to make sure you are all standing the right way up as we head into 2012, we thought we would splash around some splendid news. For seven years running now, Qantas have provided emerging Australian talents with an opportunity to enter their Qantas Spirit Of Youth Awards 365, aka SOYA365 and they're here to save the day once again. The competition, as the title may suggest, runs all year round and is a grant-based program. Creatives are asked to enter their work within the category of fashion, interactive gaming, music, writing, film-making, design, photography, craft, visual art or animation. Eleven talented creatures will find themselves travelling around the world to Texas, London, LA, Barcelona, Cannes, New York and everywhere in between. Now this is the lifestyle that is meant to sit alongside us artistic folk. Furthermore, winners will find themselves learning from the best, through the initiative's mentoring program. The likes of Marc Newsom, Zimmermann, Ashley Ringrose and Brad Eldridge are the standard of creative leaders that will be potentially offering you the ultimate in the tricks of the trade. So ladies and gentlemen, roll over and turn that frown upside down - it's time to get those creative juices flowing. Best of luck for the flight of a lifetime. Enter here if you wish.

Craft shall Hatch this Saturday

2011-12-09T09:32:00.000+11:00

Able & Game, Have a Cracker Christmas

After the long anticipated journey, the craft of Melbourne is finally due to hatch. Best have a quiet night tonight to savour all your energy for Saturday’s Craft Hatch Market. Over 30talented makers shall exhibit their latest works stall-style for Craft Victoria’squarterly curated market. It’s a day for celebrating local artists and theirhandmade crafts. Gather your friends and make a day of it, sipping on a cup oftea on one of the Bends retro lounges in between browsing through the abundanceof inimitable crafts. With work by Able & Game, Amor Amor, Danielle Boal,The Gently Unfurling Sneak, Helen Bowman, Rabbit and the Duck and VictoriaMason, just to name a few, the market will cover all of your inspiration,intrigue and gift-giving needs. Homewares, jewellery, garden, fashion,stationary and textiles will fill the back of 1000 £ Bend this Saturday, 10December between 11am – 4pm. 361 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. You're environmentally friendly invitation can be found here.

Feel like gathering some New Collectables? Always.

2011-12-08T07:00:00.000+11:00

Rachelle Eves, Monarch

There is nothing quite like the thrill of an Art Auction to get your heart beating and that adrenalin pumping. It all lies in the hope of the person hiding in the corner shying away as you near your limit. RMIT invites you to New Collectables, their auction of commission-free student artworks. Amongst the collection, you will find ceramics, painting, jewellery, drawing, sculpture and photography. Set your alarm, bidding commences tonight at 6.30pm sharp. Works can be viewed prior to the auction today, Thursday 8 December, 12 – 5pm, giving you time to really suss out your bidding wish list. RSVP available online.

Competition: Bears, Boomerangs, Bathers and Booze

2011-12-07T17:00:00.000+11:00

Suzie Stanford, Tea Towel Chair, via duo

It is a well known fact than when it comes to souvenirs,
no country puts out their best in design. Now, artists and makers from around Australia have the chance to turn this all around, transforming the iconic surfer or kangaroo or even surfing kangaroo on a shot glass into something a tad less corny and a a little more kitsch. Lord Coconut invites jewellers, designers and artists to apply to be a part of this Australia Day Exhibition, Bears, Boomerangs, Bathers and Booze – Kitsch Australiana. The exhibition will run through January and February of 2012, but applications close somewhat nearer to our current date. Think you’ve got that perfect Australian icon in your head
– then fill out this form and send it through by no later than this FRIDAY 9 DECEMBER. More about the exhibition, application requirements and the overall project here.

Compendium of Me, Compendium of Beci.

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000+11:00

Is there anything this woman cannot do? Stitching faces on cushions, designing adorable stationery, illustrating giraffes for t-shirts, amidst the rest of it, Beci Orpin decided that she needed to spread her wings just that little bit wider. Launching tonight is the one and only Compendium of Me, Beci Orpin’s 30 pages of illustrated nostalgia. Back in September of this year, Beci dug deep into the ground to dig up the roots of her reality. Those realities, those snippets of life for her as it was, now come to life for us all through Beci’s graphic illustrations. Compendium of Me will be born tonight, down at Lamington Drive, 15-25 Keele Street Collingwood. Estimated time of delivery: between 6 and 9pm. Each baby is individually numbered out of 1000 and if you’re lucky, you might even be able to get your copy signed by the humble superstar herself. If other engagements have been pencilled in already, there is no need to fret. The book will be available for purchase at Craft Victoria from next week, online post launch, through Beci or the publishing people, Erm Books.

Movie night with Leslie Arfin and her sewing kit.

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

Lesley Arfin

Now who was it that said it wasn’t cool to be crafty? No one did, well at least not since the mid 90’s. With hip-to-be-square writer, Lesley Arfin coming out about her needle and thread obsession, who on earth will ever feel the need to hide their knitting needles under their crocheted rug again? It's no longer a rumour, it's official - craft is in. A seven part video series, Hobbyist, produced by Twin Bike for Opening Ceremony, offers us the opportunity to get up close and personal with Lesley and find out all the nitty-gritty details on her current projects, the must-have’s for any needlepointer and how the story of stitch all began. So pop on those PJ’s, slide under that patchwork quilt, bring with you a cup of peppermint tea and press PLAY. It’s time for a cosy Tuesday night at the (home) movies.