After taking part in our Sydney AW19 Indigenous Program we are feeling very lucky to have Racheal Sarra of Sar.ra return at Finders Keepers for the first time in her hometown of Brisbane!
Support this booming and very highly coveted artist next weekend October 8-10 back at The Marquee, Brisbane Showgrounds and keep reading for a look at Brisbane through the eyes of Rachael!

If you still hungry for more be sure to visit our interview with Sarra from earlier in the year too!

What’s does a weekend in Brisbane look like for you?

Honestly, my weekdays and weekends blend into one sometimes with work. But when I’m not working I love to hang out with my 18-month-old niece. Mostly to get my baby fix and then give her back when the nappy needs changing (haha). And I also love to hang out with my friends. Those almost always means brunch, lunch or dinner. Sometimes all three if we’ve got lots to talk about. A favourite brunch/lunch spot would be Hunter and Scout in Graceville. It’s also super close to the flower markets at Rocklea if you are there on a Saturday.

How does your city inspire you and what do you love about it the most? 

I love Brisbane weather. I travel a fair bit with my work but it never gets old flying home over the Maiwar (Brisbane River) and touching down to beautiful weather. I also think Brisbane flies a bit under the radar. It’s kind of the underdog of capital cities. I find that inspiring because there’s so much beauty here in our own way that we get to enjoy that without being super busy.

Tell us about your workspace. Where is it, what does it look like and how does it keep you motivated?

The million-dollar question that always comes up. But the reality is currently it’s not very instagramable. I have so many different facets to my business, my products are just one part of that. But I am also a commercial artist, graphic designer, and speaker. So my job can have me traveling all over Australia. With that, I am quite adaptable to my workspace. It can be cafes, airports, hotels or libraries. But when I’m painting and making at home it’s usually outside amongst the greenery. I definitely have on my list of things to do to find a studio space that feels really special but I’ve yet to find that space that feels right.

Who’s on your not-to-miss list for the upcoming Brisbane SS19 Finders Keepers?

Oh Em Gee definitely! You can’t miss her pink stall. Maybe that’s why I love her work. Obviously the Jericho Road Clothing sisters. I feel like you just have to be near them to feel their beautiful and energetic energy. And also, Blackinkk. Varun and I might have something special up our sleeves coming soon.

What’s your fave mode of transport to take in the Brisbane sights?

Well, I am might be biased but there are two beautiful Brisbane City buses scooting around with my artwork on them They are definitely instagramable. I don’t think you can go past a trip on the City Cat even if there’s no real destination in mind. You know what they say… sometimes the journey is better than the destination!

Can you share your top three tips for Out-of-Towners visiting The Marquee, Brisbane Showgrounds for the Finders Keepers weekend?

Okay so in my opinion there’s a very right and efficient way to do the markets. Plus it helps if you are working within a budget. First, you have to do a recee lap. So you do your thing up one side then the other and ‘browse’. This way you don’t miss out on anything. Keep in mind who your favs are because after you stop for a snack it’s down to business and you go and give your fave stallholders some love and buy your fave products. Luckily, Brissy is right next door to a pretty cool precinct. So once you’re done at the markets you only have to walk across the road for more delicious food and drinks. I’d recommend Fat Dumpling on King Street. YUUUUM!

From all accounts you’ve been talking, painting and colouring the town pink (literally) from collaborations with Brisbane City Council, Pep and Ted talks and your own work going strength to strength! What is it you love about being a creative person and how do you go about designing work across so many mediums? 

I’m tired just reading this haha. It’s been quite the year and we still have a big few months ahead. Having so many different facets to my business is definitely exciting but it also has its challenges. I definitely wouldn’t change it though because my job is taking me around Australia and I get to connect with so many different people, businesses and agencies. I’m able to express myself and celebrate my culture in whatever way I feel inspired so the freedom and flexibility that comes with it is a special feeling. As for working across mediums, that’s what makes it so excited. Being a Gemini I get bored easily if I’m doing the same task, so it’s nice to mix it up.

“Sometimes it’s just about playing around and winging it”

Rachael Sarra

What are you working on at the moment and what can visitors expect to discover at your stall at the upcoming Brisbane Markets?

Well, you’ll discover me, so make sure you come and say hi I’ve been working a new range of limited edition prints, tees, totes, and pins. I’m also releasing a new keyring. It has both the meeting place and the people symbol dangling off it

rachaelsarra.com
instagram.com/sar.ra__

The post A Brisbane Weekend with Rachael Sarra of Sar.ra first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

We are over the moon to announce our AW19 Artist Recipient as art & design duo Amanda and Ben Denning who collaborate as husband and wife IRL and also under stationary brand The Adventures Of! These rare treasures have launched us into a lagoon full of fun and we can’t wait to see their artwork come to life across the Finders Keepers Autumn Winter 2019 season. Working with a pastel palette, the only winter blues you’ll run into this season are blissful ones, trust us. We caught up with artist Amanda to chat adventures, processes and possibilities.

Tell us a bit about The Adventures Of & how this adventure started?
The adventures of aims to celebrate the big and small adventures in life through a range of quality paper goods! We are a design and print brand specialising in art prints, stationery as well as graphic design services. The adventure began as a result of working on my own projects in between working for clients. I was working for a print company at the time which influenced the launch of our first greeting card range! 

What was the inspiration and design process behind the magical artwork created for our AW19 poster? 
For the Finders Keepers AW19 campaign I was inspired to create a lagoon theme. After visiting my favourite local rock pool I noticed the colours and shapes from nature. I am also forever inspired the iconic Matisse. The design process began with sketching a range of layouts and shapes in a lagoon. The piece was then developed further through collage, layout and colour!

How do you feel your practice has evolved since you began your creative business in 2013?
I feel as though my work is always evolving. I’m always interested by and experimenting with different print methods which I think plays a role as the design and print of a piece goes hand in hand. At the moment i’m exploring printing methods like risograph and screen printing for example as I love the tactile, hand made nature of this process.

“Be authentic and open, you never know where an opportunity might lead you!”

How do you stay creatively inspired? 
I’m currently doing a pottery course just for fun, for me exploring different art forms keeps me inspired as it doesn’t always have to be about working with the same medium. I’m also most inspired after travel! Being outdoors and keeping active plays a big part too.

What does a Monday morning look like for you?
A Monday would go something like this: First exercise, then coffee!
Check emails, pack/send orders then hopefully there’s time to work on new projects and of course keep on top of admin! 
Running a small business really does mean you need to wear many hats! 

Describe your favourite creative project to date. (We know you have your biggest creation in the works right now with a baby on the way! Congratulations!)
Thank you! That’s a tough question. I’m currently working on a children’s book which is so much fun! It’s still in the early stages but i’m excited for it to take shape.

Where are your favourite places to adventure in Sydney? 
My husband and I like to head down to Garie beach near the figure eight pools which is about half an hour from our home. We also love hanging about Oak park in Cronulla.

What advice would you give aspiring artists who are looking for a career in the arts?
Be authentic and open, you never know where an opportunity might lead you!

What does small creative business mean to you? 
Running The Adventures Of has been self satisfying creatively. For me it’s about flexibility to suit my lifestyle. I am able to make choices and take on projects that will grow and inspire me and hopefully others. 

“For me it’s about flexibility to suit my lifestyle. I am able to make choices and take on projects that will grow and inspire me and hopefully others.”

Do you have a favourite find from Finders Keepers?
I remember attending the Finders Keepers years ago and discovered Bridget Bodenham ceramics which I adore! I actually still have the mugs I bought. I’m currently studying ceramics just for fun and I’m so inspired by the ceramics community!

instagram.com/theadventuresofco
theadventuresof.co

Watch The Adventures Of artwork come to life across our Autumn Winter season! Be sure to RSVP on facebook for all the updates and stay tuned for our full lineup of designers, food heroes and entertainment.

The post Artist Program Recipient AW19: The Adventures Of first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

images features Botanical Calamity Design by Peaches+Keen

This Autumn Winter season, we have had the absolute pleasure of working with Melbourne based fluoro duo, Peaches + Keen, to create our event posters.  We’ve been obsessed with the intricate work by Lucy Hearn and Lily Daley since we first saw their unique creations at our markets in 2012 (check this out!).  Today we chat more with the pair and discover some interesting insights about their process.  Catch Peaches + Keen at our Melbourne market in a few weeks! 

How would you describe your artistic practice?
Lucy studied gold and silversmithing while Lily’s background is in design.  Our work often combines our differing technical experience with our mutual love of nature, colour and creativity.  We don’t limit ourselves in what we do, and instead see our work as something that is always evolving based on new developments and inspiration.  Currently we are making one-off gold foiled earrings as well as photography and painted artworks based on our deconstructed Botanical Calamity series.

How do you feel your practice has evolved since you began your creative business?
When we began working together Lily was working as a Graphic Designer and Lucy had a one year old daughter.  We pulled together an exhibition in less than a month where we made combined works as well as work focusing on our individual skills.  Coming on six years later, we currently juggle three kids between us (with another on the way!) as well as our business and personal lives.  It is all very intertwined and now everything we make has us both heavily involved throughout the creative process.  We often rely on each other to finish an artwork whilst the other makes our combined families dinner!

Image features Botanical Calamity Artwork by Peaches+Keen

image features Botanical Calamity Exhibition by Peaches+Keen

Have you always been on a creative path?  How did you find yourselves working as artists?
Our creative studies at university and our long friendship have helped to lead us to where we are today.  But we have both always been creative from a young age, we think that for many makers it is in the blood!  We’re not happy unless we’re making, it keeps us sane.

What was your inspiration behind the beautiful artwork created for our Autumn/Winter poster?
We wanted to make something really special for Finders Keepers, and knew a really intricate version of our Botanical Calamity designs would look amazing.  Each one involved sourcing seasonal leaves, flowers and seedpods based on a colour theme, which we then carefully deconstructed, arranged (very patiently) and photographed.

image feature Gold Foiled Earrings handmade by Peaches+Keen

image features assortment of gold foiled earrings handmade by Peaches+Keen

Describe your favourite creative project to date.
We feel very fortunate that we have been able to do so many things as Peaches+Keen.  We’ve had numerous exhibitions with people we admire and taught classes across the country with Megan Morton’s The School.  Currently a highlight is making one-off earrings, because it’s like making a new artwork each time and we have had so many technical and creative developments as we evolve our work.  And of course, it was super exciting to be asked to create the poster artwork for this season’s Finders Keepers events!

What advice would you give aspiring artists who are looking for a career in the arts?
Always strive to create something different, rather than replicate the work of those you admire or what is on trend.  Make good use of social media to share your ideas and connect with other creatives you admire.  Make work that you love!  And be nice to people

peachesandkeen.com
instagram.com/peachesandkeen

Image features Botanical Calamity Design Circle by Peaches+Keen

The post Autumn Winter 2016 Poster Artist: Peaches+Keen first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

With extended shopping hours on Friday ‘day’, join us at the new opening time of 12 noon on Friday 22nd June to shop the day away until 9pm.  Shopping continues all weekend long from 9am – 6pm Saturday 23rd and 9am – 5pm Sunday 24th June.

Of course what you really are here for is a sneak peek at some of the incredible talent that we have sourced from around the country!  As always, we embrace local makers in the Sunshine State, with more than 30 percent of the designers setting up shop calling Queensland home.

Read on for the full line-up over two huge blog posts and stay tuned for more. For an interactive experience, be sure to check out our Brisbane AW18 Directory!

A Thing or 2, Aacute, Able And Game, Afternoons With Albert,
AKA, Akazi, Alchemy In The Raw, Alice Nightingale,
All the Kings Men / Duckfeet, Alpine + Sea, Amanda Davidson, And O Design
Anna Scheen – Linogirl, AntiCraft, Apiary Made, Apom,
Apostl, Aulieude Clothing, Ayana Jewellery and Bandikoot Kids

Bask aromatherapy, Beau Wylie, Bespoke Letterpress, Bilboa,
Birdy and Clementine, Blackinkk, Bon Maxie, Bridget Bodenham Ceramics,
Bright Threads, Broadcroft Design, Busy Head, Butterscotch Castle,
bёuy, Caz Creations – by Carlie Edwards, Champ, Clare & Katie,
Clay Canoe, Clive Street, Comfort & Calm and Core.

Corner Block Studio, Cotton Seeds Australia, Creatures of Yarn, Cutie Pie Creations,
Dana Kinter Art, Denz + co, design by fish, Devoi,
Dolly Henry, Dots by Donna, Down the Rabbit Hole, Dressed for Sunday,
Drift Trading Co., dukes and duchesses apparel, Earth Bottles, East Coast General,
Eco Bling, Elise Heather Designs, Emily Green and Erica Brooke Skincare

Erika Harder Jewellery, Erin Lightfoot, Evie B Paperie, Falling for Willow,
Fox and Dollbaby, frankie magazine, Fringe & Bow, Frock Me Out,
fujinella, Gather & Moss, Gertie & Belle, Gertrude and the King,
Good & Clean Skincare, Halo & Horns Company, Hands On Workshop, Happy in Finland,
Harvest Lane, Hey Reflect’o, Hide + Thread and Honeybee wrap

Imagine in Colours, In the Daylight, Inkling, Issue Clothing Co.,
Ivy & Wood, Jae Copp Artwork, Jagger Sleepwear, Jericho Road Clothing,
Juno + Ace, Kate Sale Jewellery, Katherine Wheeler, Kim Wallace Ceramics,
Kindling, Kirralee & Co, Kitty Came Home, Koa – by Kaitlin,
Kollab and Komorebi

Follow on for part 2!

The post Brisbane AW18 Market: Designer Line-up Announced! A-K first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

For an interactive experience, be sure to check out our Brisbane AW18 Directory!

Brisbane Autumn Winter 2018 Market
Brisbane Showgrounds, The Marquee

Friday 22^nd June 5pm – 10pm
Saturday 23^rd June 9am – 6pm
Sunday 24^th June 9am – 5pm

If you are planning to come to the event and want to share with your friends our Facebook event invite is here. For continued updates, right through to live pictures during event, be sure to look out on our Facebook Page, Twitter and Instagram.

L’ascari, Lab Kajo, Leah Bartholomew Art, Libby Watkins,
Llluie/Llluie, Local Maker, Lorraine and Blair, Love Mae,
Lumen + Luxe, Luna’s Treasures, Mabel and Moose, Magpie Goose,
Mandy Collective, marcello, Mari Bray Ceramics, Massuri,
Mavasi, Meg Makes, meow girl and memobottle

Men with Valor, Merchants of Nonsense, Meta Design Co, Mijatu,
Miranda Murphy, miss lilly apparel, ML Ceramics, Mon Manabu,
Mox & Co, Ms Mel Shoes, Myrtle & Moss, Nanna Woo,
Nerida Hansen Print and Textiles, Next of Kin Handmade, Next Romance Jewels, Night Tiger,
Nikau, Notely, Nzuri Organics, Olas Supply Co.

Onebluenest, Opia, Oshka Black, Pablo & Co. Boutique,
paper boat press, Paper Saver, Pastel Designs, Personail,
Pigeonhole, Pilar Rojas, Pili Pala Pieces, Pixie Nut & Co.,
Polli, Posie, Prince + Pauper, Pure Nut,
Red Parka, Rekindle Candles, Renee Loves Frances and Renee Waters

Roger & Peach, Rondelle Designs, Rosie Lou, Salt By Hendrix,
Saltys, Savannah And Three, Scott Christensen Seascapes, Seed & Sprout Co,
sesame candles, Sheree & Me, Shibora, Sienna Byron Bay,
Single Sin Clothing, SOLLIS jewellery, Spirit Natural Clothing, Spun Mud,
Stephanie Elizabeth Artwork, Stump and co, Suki McMaster and Sustomi

T-Leaf Collections, Tactica, Tassel & Twine, The Candle Library,
The Great State, The Pink Plate, The Scenic Route, Theo the Label,
tinfoil collective, Tinker by printink studio, Tiny Giraffe, Tribal Mama Love,
Truso, tsom, Two Warm Hands, Upswitch,
Vessel & Vine, Wandering Heart, Washpool Skin Wellness, What The Wolf,
Wicks and Stones, Will & Bear, You, Me & Bones and Yunmi

The post Brisbane AW18 Market: Designer Line-up Announced! L-Z first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

Not only do we have a bigger venue, we will be opening the doors at 5pm on Friday 10th November, giving you longer hours to shop and more stalls to choose from, now over 200! Market continues at the Brisbane Showgrounds all weekend from 9am – 4pm on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th November.

We’ve sourced some of the best local talent Brisbane has to offer, and some of our Finders Keepers favourites will be making their way across the country to join us in Brisbane. Check the highlights below, and for a more comprehensive list, you can also find out Brisbane SS17 Market Directory here.  Better still, download our brand new FREE smartphone app, and hold the keys to the markets in the palm of your hand!

We hope you can join us for a celebration of independent art and design, good food, live music and beautiful Brisbane sunshine!

Homewares Highlights:

1. Kirralee & Co
2. You, Me & Bones
3. ML Ceramics
4. Maker & Merchant
5. Corner Block Studio
6. Posie
7. Erin Lightfoot

Art and Paper:

1. J.F.A. Hynd
2. Studio Sue
3. Leah Bartholomew Art
4. Kait D’Arcy
5. @MCRT.Studio
6. McMurtrie Illustrations
7. Empty.Room

Fashion / Accessories and Jewellery:

1. Blacbrail Atelier
2. Olas Supply Company
3. Frank & Dollys
4. Ingo
5. Sienna Byron Bay
6. Will & Bear

The post Brisbane SS17 Market: Shopping Highlights #2 first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

Anindilyakwa Arts Umbakumba Bush Dyers

 Learn a bit more about the incredible work of Anindilyakwa Arts before visiting them in Brisbane this weekend for the start of the Finders Keepers market tour at the The Marquee, Brisbane Showgrounds. 

Tell us about Anindilyakwa Arts & your community.

Anindilyakwa Arts is for the remote communities of Groote Eylandt; Angurgu, Umbakumba, Bikerton Eylandt, as well as some from 4 mile outstation.

Anindilyakwa Art’s Bush Dye Practice. Image credit Amy Nicholas

Dye Pots. Image credit Amy Nicholas

silk dyeing process. Image credit Amy Nicholas

What kinds of products do you sell in your shop?  What’s the most popular? 

People like our weavings and baskets. They also like the traditional bush dye on the T-shirts, sarongs and scarves.  The old women also make jewellery, they collect the shells from the beach, seeds from the bush and sometimes floating in the water.

Annabell Amagula hanging silk to dry

Arts Bush Dye with Bub. Image credit Amy Nicholas

Deserall Lalara Dyeing Silk. Image Credit Amy Nicholas

How do you feel when you see people from far away happy with their baskets or bush dye?

Myself? When I see them, I’m proud of myself and what I’m doing. I’m proud for my community, my elders and of myself.

The elders, the young ones, they have their own styles. To me, I’m proud and happy and can’t stop looking at the colours when they come from the dye pots. I can’t stop smelling the fire.

anindilyakwaarts.com.au
instagram.com/anindilyakwa_arts
facebook.com/Anindilyakwa-Arts-Groote-Eylandt

Anindilyakwa Arts Angurgu Bush Dyers

The post Brisbane SS18 Indigenous Program – Anindilyakwa Arts first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

The Finders Keepers is back this Spring/ Summer, and we are thrilled to be back in Brisbane!

Be sure to explore our dynamite line-up at The Marquee, Brisbane Showgrounds over three epic days, 9-11 November.

Make the most of every extra shopping minute as the Finders Keepers are now open for three full days throughout the Spring Summer season. Friday will continue to be a great choice to escape the weekend crowds – great for families and parents ‘n’ bubs to move through the aisles with pram space as well as extra room for the little nippers to roam.

Read on for the full line-up over two huge blog posts and stay tuned for more. For an interactive experience, be sure to check out our Brisbane SS18 Directory!

4 The Love Of Paris Patricia Mendes illustrations, Afternoons With Albert, Aimee Fairman – Geo-Alchemy, Akazi,
Aleisa Byfield Artisan, All the Kings Men / Duckfeet, Amanda Davidson, Anindilyakwa Arts,
AntiCraft, Atelier Nómada, Aulieude Clothing, Babee & Me,
Baiia, Bam Loves Boo, Bambambu, Bandikoot Kids,
Beau Wylie, Beep, Bespoke Letterpress and Bhunny=Designs

Bilboa, Blackinkk, Blushing Confetti, Bobbie & Bean Collective,
Bon Maxie, Bowerbird Creations, Burbia, Busy Head,
By. G, By Samantha Melbourne, CarysMartinCeramics, Cavarra,
Caz Creations – by Carlie Edwards, Chalkboard E, Champ, Christina Illustration,
Cleanse With Benefits, Clive Street, Colour This. Design and Print and Comfort & Calm

Concrete Jellyfish, Core., Corner Block Studio, Crayon Chick,
Denz + co, Design by fish, Dots by Donna, Drift Trading Co.,
dukes and duchesses apparel, Earth Bottles, Earth Fibre, Eclectic Critters,
Eco Bling, Eco Sisters Pty Ltd, Ekcelent and Co, Elise Heather Designs
Eliza Rose, Elkii, Emily Green and Enki Organics

Erika Harder Jewellery, Erin Lightfoot, Ernest and Joe, Evie B Paperie,
Fluturi, Frank & Dollys, FRANKIE GUSTI, frankie magazine,
FRILLFRANK, Frock Me Out, Gaia Soul Designs Byron Bay, Gather & Moss,
Gatinha Beachwear, Genkstasy, Gertie & Belle, Gertrude and the King,
Ghostess Design, greyandbird, Gypsea White and Halo & Horns Company

Harvest Lane, Hazel and Herb, Hello Miss May, Hendrik Clothing Company,
Herbs & Heart, Honeybee wrap, ILA + AVA skincare, illy’s wall,
In the Daylight, inBlack., Inkling, Jericho Road Clothing,
Julie White, Kalliope, Kellective by Nikki, Kindling,
Kingston Jewellery, Kirralee & Co, KOA – by Kaitlin, Kollab and Kumo

Click here for L-Z!

The post Brisbane SS18 Market: Designer Line-up Announced! A-K first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

Back in Brisbane!

Get ready for stop two of the Finders Keepers East Coast Tour in sunny Brisbane, kicking off Friday from 12 noon! We’re thrilled to once again bring you a HUGE weekend of Australian art + design plus live local music, delicious food and interactive activities just for the kids. The Finders Keepers team along with our 200+ stallholders can’t wait to see you back at The Marquee, Brisbane Showgrounds!

From 12 noon, Friday is a winner for escaping weekend crowds. Perfect for families as well as parents n’ prams to conquer Christmas shopping with extra room for the little nippers to roam. An absolute hit in Melbourne, we welcome our new supporter Castle & Cubby to Brisbane who will be activating an exciting interactive zone for the young ones. The kids and their imaginations can run wild thanks to these incredibly cute cubbies sourced from recycled materials.

It wouldn’t be Finders Keepers without entertainment from some amazing local musicians and DJs, team Friday night drinks with live entertainment and shopping ’till 9pm! Following Friday’s fun we’ll be open all weekend – check for hours below!

In Brisbane we also celebrate and welcome our Indigenous Program recipient Anindilyakwa Arts, an arts and community centre for the remote communities of Groote Eylandt; Angurgu, Umbakumba, Bikerton Eylandt, as well as some from 4 mile outstation located by the beach and nurturing art and culture. Known for their bush dyed fabrics, weavings and jewellery made from collected shells and seeds, we cannot wait to have Anindilyakwa Arts at Finders Keepers Brisbane. Support Anindilyakwa Arts this weekend by visiting them at stall 106.

Finders Keepers Brisbane Spring / Summer 18
Brisbane Showgrounds, The Marquee
Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills, Brisbane

Friday 9th November : 12pm – 9pm
Saturday 10th November : 9am – 5pm
Sunday 11th November : 9am – 5pm

Finders Keepers Highlights:

Young Squad, Kingston Jewellery, Mennie, Comfort & Calm,
shuh., Anindilyakwa Arts, Notely, ROVE,
Julie White, Theclaysmith, Gather & Moss and Kirralee & Co

Just a sneak peek of some highlights on offer from our clever stallholders – bringing the summer feels with plenty of colour! Finders Keepers are so thrilled to bring you over 200 independent stallholders all under one roof, making shopping small business in a BIG way easy-peasy this Christmas. Get excited by the full designer directory here or download our app below!

Frankie Magazine:

Right in time for summer and a brand new year, the frankie stall will be chock full of papery goodness. There’s the 2019 diary and calendar for starters, as well as issue 86 (hot off the press!); a one-off, food-focused issue of frankie, frankie food!; the pretty, patterned gifty wrap book; and all the usual goodness, including Smith Journal, Look What We Made, and their cute-as-can-be stationery range. Pop by and say hi, and don’t forget to make the most of their exclusive Finders Keepers subscription deal.
frankie.com.au

Food & Drink:

Bottom left Finders Keepers Brisbane AW18 photo by Samee Lapham.

We would never let you go hungry, and this year we have an incredible line-up of local food vendors to keep you fuelled for more shopping. Drool over the full line-up of what’s on offer here.

Entertainment Program:

Tunes time.

Friday 9th November
12pm – DJ James Wright
2:30pm – Jeremy Neale
3:30pm – DJ Firstbourne
6pm – Asha Jeffries
7pm – Rainman (DJ)

Saturday 10th November
9:00am – Seja (DJ)
11:30am – Poppy Galactic & The Beat (Kids)
1pm – O’ Little Sister
2pm – Dana Gehrman
3pm -Rainman (DJ)

Sunday 11th November
9am – Seja (DJ)
11:30am – Poppy Galactic & The Beat (Kids)
1pm – Megan Cooper
2pm – Hazlett
3pm- DJ James Wright

If DJ James Wright kissing a disco ball isn’t enough to make you want to get your dancing shoes on, we don’t know what is. Read all about this years super fun line-up of music and entertainment here.

Castle & Cubby in Brisbane!

Finders Keepers Melbourne SS18 photo by Samee Lapham.

A huge hit in Melbourne for the first Finders Keepers Spring Summer stop, these interactive cubby houses by Castle & Cubby are a brilliant distraction to keep the youngsters engaged and entertained! Come play!

Castle & Cubby handcraft eco-friendly play spaces for little kids with BIG imaginations! They think that the best play is imaginative play. All products are made by hand in Melbourne using sustainably-sourced and recycled timbers.

Get Social!

Finders Keepers Melbourne SS18 photo by Samee Lapham.

Don’t forget you can follow along from the market or from home on our social media pages! This season be sure to look out for (and get involved with) our new Artists Walls, handmade in collaboration with a line-up of very talented local artists, you’ll find them scattered around the venue ready for fun live event photos with your friends. We also have our Facebook Event here (hint: invite your friends!) as well as our Facebook page. As always, we will be posting live updates from the Finders Keepers market all weekend on our Instagram page and we’d love you to do the same.

Use the hashtag #brisbanefinderskeepers and #thefinderskeepers to join in!

The post Brisbane SS18 NOW OPEN! first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

This week we’re welcoming our Brisbane SS19 Indigenous Program recipient CHABOO! 
100% Aboriginal owned and operated, what began as happenstance has turned into a wonderful, collaborative business. Along with debuting at Brisbane Finders Keepers this weekend CHABOO is also currently exhibiting their work “Our Stories and Designs” at Logan Art Gallery! Be sure to visit Casey and Roy’s stall this weekend and discover their unique designs sharing important storytelling. 

‘Inspired by our strong and resilient upbringings, the stories we need to tell, our Elders and our surroundings that make this country beautiful’

Can you share the journey of CHABOO and why it was so important for you to start your business!

With Casey’s background in graphic design we wanted to set up an online presence, so we purchased our domain and accidentally added an online store. In horror, Casey turned too Roy and said “We need to sell something now!”. We then set out and purchased a Lazy Susan to see how they would sell… As we started having stalls at market places and attracting more business, our nephews and nieces would all get excited in seeing the ‘CHABOO’ branding out and about. We then knew, that what we were doing was important for our young people to see that you can do anything with hard work, dedication and to not be shame.

What is your creative process and how do you select the artists to collaborate with?

Our creative process consists of research, getting to know the clients and to just get a feel for the subject. We have collaborated with some amazing artists and have formed a deep bond with Griffith University, QCA CAIA students Dylan Mooney and Kyra Mancktelow (Casey’s sister). We didn’t select Dylan and Kyra per-say, we all just sat down for a yarn and talked about how we could all help each other in the creative world.

Tell us about your inspiration for creativity?  Is there an artist/s you admire?

Our brand name ‘CHABOO’ was inspired by our two fur-babies, Chanchi & Boomer. They have both pulled us through and shown us unconditional love through our hardest times. We are also inspired by our strong and resilient upbringings, the stories we need to tell, our Elders and our surroundings that make this country beautiful. We both love Louise Numina’s artwork and artist process and how her artwork flows with no hesitation.

Our stories have been hidden for too long and are now ready to be shared with the world, whether it be through graphics, animation or murals.

What goals do you have for your business over the next five years?

Our goals for CHABOO over the next five years is to continue to inspire our younger and older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to learn new skills within all different types of platforms and mediums. Our stories have been hidden for too long and are now ready to be shared with the world, whether it be through graphics, animation or murals.

Being your first Finders Keepers, what can market-goers expect to discover at your stall?

Yes this is our first year and we are both excited and nervous! We will be showcasing our stories on our wooden bowls and plates, tea towels, tote bags, prints, greeting cards and something brand new that will be launched at Finders Keepers SS19 Brisbane!

We’re sussing stallholder wish lists! Is there a Finders Keepers designer you’re excited to meet this season? If so please tell us why!

There’s so many amazing stallholders, we think we well walk out of the markets with our profits spent back into the markets! We have been following Blushing Confetti for a while now and can’t wait to get a hold of one of their diaries!

chaboo.com.au
instagram.com/chaboodesigns
facebook.com/chaboodesigns

The post Brisbane SS19 Indigenous Program Recipient – CHABOO first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

We’re back Brisbane! 

That’s right, the Finders Keepers Spring / Summer season rolls on – we’re back at The Marquee, Brisbane Showgrounds THIS WEEKEND! You’re invited to join the Finders Keepers for three MEGA days of slowing down to shop small. Kicking off this Friday from 12 noon, we’re counting down to one of our best line-ups yet, featuring local heroes and interstate must-sees! It’s not just a room full of independent Australian art & design either, there’s also incredible local food plus a killer entertainment program AND one very big colouring-in wall for the kids by Lunch Lady magazine and Melbourne artist Beci Orpin!

From 12 noon, Friday is still the winner for escaping weekend crowds. Perfect for families as well as parents n’ prams to conquer a creative day out! We’ve got the lovely team from Lunch Lady magazine joining us this year with their interactive stall of mags – and massages! That’s right, the kids can come along and have a go at colouring in the GIANT wall by Beci Orpin while parents jump in the free massage booth! There’s also magazine and merch to be found all weekend.

It wouldn’t be Finders Keepers without live music from some amazing local musicians and DJs. Team your Friday night drinks with live entertainment and shopping ’till 9pm! Following Friday’s fun we’ll be open all weekend – check for hours below and don’t forget we’re doing Espresso Martinis at the main bar this year thanks to Allpress! That oughta keep you finding.

We also celebrate and welcome our Indigenous Program recipient CHABOO. This design duo has a seriously beautiful set-up install. Showcasing Indigenous Art on handcrafted wooden bowls and platters plus totes and tea towels, CHABOO is storytelling via form and function.

Finders Keepers Brisbane Spring/Summer 2019
Brisbane Showgrounds, The Marquee
Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills, Brisbane

Friday 8th November : 12pm – 9pm
Saturday 9th November : 9am – 5pm
Sunday 10th November : 9am – 5pm

Shopping Highlights:

Some sneaky highlights above to warm you up and get you ready to meet this season’s clever stallholders. Finders Keepers are so thrilled to bring you over 180 independent designers, artists, makers and foodies all under one roof, making shopping small business in a BIG way super easy and rewarding. Want more? The full design directory is right here.

Send Love!

Keep your eyes peeled for the Finders Keepers Post Stop this season! Slow down and tell someone you love them – then pop it in the post box! We’ll be sending the first 500 then invite you to spread the love by taking a postcard home for keeps or sending on your way home.

Frankie Magazine:

Spot a frankie – pick it up! That’s right, FREE frankie magazines will be scattered around The Marquee all weekend as part of frankie in the wild. Don’t forget to post your frankie magazine on Instagram and tell everyone about your find by using the hashtag #frankieinthewild #brisbanefinderskeepers – FINDERS, KEEPERS!

PLUS! frankie have their annual FK exclusive subscription offer available RIGHT NOW! Get some frankie in your mailbox and subscribe here.

frankie.com.au

Food & Drink:

This line-up had us at burger bus! We’ve got you sorted from breakfast to dinner and all the snacking you can do in between, so you can spend the whole day shopping small. Highlights include Bill’s Burgers served in their double-decker burger bus, Espresso Martini’s at the main bar all weekend and top of our list, Gluten-Free Donuts served hot with cinnamon sugar at the G-FREE Donuts stall! Check out the full food line-up here.

PLUS be sure to visit Stone & Wood’s The Gatherer Bar for a taste of their new summer beer – and get excited because this is beer not as you know it! The Gatherer is brewed with watermelon, cucumber, and mint and is being served on ice with a sprig of mint all season at Finders Keepers! The sun’s begging you to give it a go!

Entertainment Program:

Take a break from the stalls and discover local music all weekend. We’ve curated smooth tunes, from DJs to indie up-and-comers.

There’s also kids three piece Red Rocket 3 not to be missed on Saturday and Sunday at 10:30am.

Hello Lunch Lady:

An absolute smash in Melbourne, Lunch Lady is hitting Brisbane with a fresh colouring-in wall for the kids plus their stellar stall packed with mags and merch! TIRED PARENTS: Be sure to stop by for a free massage in the Tired Parents Booth!

lunchlady.com.au

Xero x Finders Keepers:

Our 2019 partner Xero, proudly sponsoring our debut stallholders, have you sorted if you’re looking for a place to re-charge – both your phone and your body! Find comfy chairs alongside charging stations at the Xero re-charge lounge so you can *breath* and reboot! PLUS sign-up to our newsletter before you leave for the chance to win an AMAZING summer stallholder pack full of handcrafted goodies for keeps!

xero.com

Get Social:

Don’t forget you can follow along at the market OR from home on our social media pages all weekend! This season is all about finding, loving and KEEPING! Look out for the signs and snap a keeper! Plus we’ll be perusing the Marquee all weekend, snapping stallholders and sharing their stories.

Be sure to check out our GIFs on Instagram by searching ‘finders keepers’ and share your Finders Keepers experience with us – we’ll be sharing adventures all weekend. Just be sure to tag us and use the hashtag #findlovekeep!

We also have our Facebook Event here (hint: invite your friends!) and as always, we will be posting live updates from the Finders Keepers market all weekend on our Instagram page,and we’d love you to do the same.

Gather your friends and make your way to The Marquee! See you soon Brisbane!

The post Brisbane SS19 NOW OPEN! first appeared on The Finders Keepers.

Owner and artist behind WD, Ailsa Walsh-Davidson has been practising Aboriginal art techniques since she was 5 years old and opened her business in 2013. Her work encompasses her love of the landscape she surrounds herself in and is driven by the strength she gains from her grandparents who were both a part of the stolen generation. Wulkuraka Designs is dedicated to ensuring indigenous stories are heard with a focus on healing through many art forms including painting, beadwork, film making, photography and poetry.

Discover her designs at Finders Keepers Brisbane this October 15-17 at the Exhibition Building Brisbane Showgrounds!

Can you share the journey of Wulkuraka Designs so far and why it is important to you?

I started my personal art journey over twenty years ago, I experimented with different materials and textures. Then in my late 20’s I start Wulkuraka Designs. Wulkuraka means Birds in Trees and my local area where I was raised. I decided to sell my art later in life as lore protocols advise that young people cannot paint stories and sell until they come of age. There are still stories and symbols I cannot paint now in my mid 30’s as I am still too young to paint them. My own creative background is in painting with acrylic and ochre. My practise has developed into graphic design and I now design my own art prints and jewellery. I’ve worked with clay, bark and bush seeds to name a few. I love the touch of different textures and using all my senses to connect back to country. As I am both a fresh water and saltwater lore woman I am able to expand my creative narrative with both my blood clans.

What keeps you inspired and motivated?

My culture and lore, my link to the past and the beautiful spirituality that is in my DNA. I am an Aboriginal Health Worker outside of my art career. Helping my community inspires me to be a better person and that is reflected in my artwork. I have worked with people suffering from social and emotional well-being (mental health) problems. I have worked with mothers to be and families with intergenerational trauma. I was always told I was born a healer, so I applied that to both in my daily interactions with people and in my artwork.

I am the grandchild of the stolen generation. My grandma was taken from Mornington Island to Palm Island and Townsville and my grandfather was taken from Thargomindah to the Deebing Creek Mission in Ipswich and Cherbourg. I have a personal history with intergenerational trauma so art plays a huge role in healing.

Tell us a bit more about commission and collaborative work. What have you worked on and how have you found the process?

I’ve worked with both individuals and large national and international companies. I have worked on healing pieces with mothers who have had miscarriages, to families that want a piece for their home that reflects their life values. I generally send the client an email with ideas, including symbols, colour palettes and if they wish to have other elements included like emu feathers or ochre. It is a symbiotic communication.

What are your hopes for the future of Wulkuraka Designs?

I hope to become an art healer, I wish to take my art to an international level, in collaboration with other First Nation people. Showcase our history and our dreaming by means of education. 

Being your first Finders Keepers what can market-goers expect to discover at your stall?

They can discover beautiful handmade earrings and natural fibre jewellery made with materials collected from country and cleansed with eucalyptus smoke.

Ailsa Walsh is a First Nation artist and Aboriginal Health Worker connected via bloodline and lore to the Lardil Nation on Mornington Island Queensland and Kullili Country in Thargomindah. With family and lore connections to the Yuggera Nation in Ipswich/Brisbane Queensland.

Stay connected with Wulkuraka Designs on Instagram @wulkurakadesigns

The post Brisbane SS21 Indigenous Program Recipient: Wulkuraka Designs first appeared on The Finders Keepers.