An Interview with - ARTHOUSE Meath

When the Little Master P was born we were inundated with an array of wonderful new baby cards, however, one stood out more than most.

Congratulations on your new baby.  Don't drop him.

This humorous cute card came from my cousin Katie, who volunteers for a wonderful organisation called ARTHOUSE Meath, a social enterprise supporting individual artists with severe epilepsy and learning difficulties to create artworks and products for sale.  I myself work for a local charity who support individuals with Autism, so I completely appreciate the importance of such organisations in raising awareness while empowering individuals within their own skills sets and abilities.  The creative mind behind the ARTHOUSE Meath is incredible, turning simple detailed drawings of dogs, horses, birds, teapots, scissors and lots more into beautiful products which include cards, wrapping paper, tea towels, baby bibs (i got one of those too!) jewellery, mugs, just check out the Online Shop for the full range of products.

I would like to introduce you now to both a volunteer and an artist from ARTHOUSE Meath to tell you all about the service and products.

VOLUNTEER (Katie Abbott)

How long have you been volunteering at ARTHOUSE Meath?

Just over a year now. ARTHOUSE Meath has existed as a service to the clients (artists) for about 8 years but it only evolved into the full blown high street shop last April, which is when I joined.

 How and why did you decide to become a volunteer?

About 6 years ago when I moved to Godalming I fell in love with an ARTHOUSE Meath painting that was in an exhibition in a local pottery shop. It was through that painting that I found out more about the ARTHOUSE and the work they did there.  Over the years I bought a few prints whenever I stumbled across ARTHOUSE Meath selling at local town fairs. Then, when I saw that they had moved into an empty shop in the high street and were advertising for volunteers I rang up straight away and asked if I could get involved.

Can you describe what the ARTHOUSE Meath is?

ARTHOUSE Meath is a social enterprise that celebrates and values the artistic talents of adults with severe epilepsy and learning disabilities. Clients come to the ARTHOUSE both from the Meath Trust, a residential home in Godalming, and from the community. Professional artists run two sessions a day in which the clients sketch, draw and paint under guidance from the artist. The work is then framed and sold in the shop and at art fairs. Often, an element of a painting or sketch will be transferred onto a product. Currently the ARTHOUSE produces hand printed cards, T-shirts, baby ware, as well as wrapping paper, mugs, jugs, tea towels, cushions, notebooks and jewellery. The list is endless and ever growing. These products are then also sold in the shop, online on the ARTHOUSE Meath website, Not on the High Street and Amazon, and in over 80 stockists across the country. All profits go back into sustaining ARTHOUSE Meath and anything beyond that goes back into The Meath Trust itself.

Having read your recent post on the ARTHOUSE Meath blog it is clear that you are very passionate about the service.  What makes it such a wonderful environment to work in?

There are lots and lots of great things about ARTHOUSE Meath.  But for me I would have to say that primarily it is the people that make it such a special place. Not only the team of people who have had the vision and commitment to make the ARTHOUSE Meath exist - from the trustees, to the ARTHOUSE Director, to the volunteers and all the people in between - but the clients themselves. Sitting and chatting with them, watching how much they enjoy creating beautiful art, and being there with them when one of their designs sells - seeing just how much it means to them - all of these things make it a wonderful place to spend time. 

How do you think the clients benefit from ARTHOUSE Meath?

Without doubt the clients benefit from achieving a sense of pride in themselves. For them to be told verbally, but also commercially through the popularity of their work, that they are creating things of beauty and worth is so precious.That sense of pride is a wonderful thing to foster. I know that they all also love feeling part of the community - both in the sense that they are at the heart of a close knit team at ARTHOUSE Meath, but also in the sense that the ARTHOUSE's physical presence in the High Street puts them at the centre of the action in town. Every day customers come in and admire the work, buy the work and chat away to the clients. It is a really rewarding experience for everyone involved.  

Describe your day at ARTHOUSE Meath?

It varies from week to week, but usually I'll arrive and take over in the shop from the volunteer who worked the morning shift. Then I'll find out if there are any jobs that need doing, for example folding and packing cards or packaging up internet orders ready to send out. Whilst I'm doing this I'll chat to the professional artist that will be running the afternoon session, and often talk to other members of the team about ways to market ARTHOUSE Meath to more people in more ways.  Then the afternoon group arrive and work starts. Sarah, one of the clients, is always up in the front of the shop with me and she'll help me with the jobs I'm doing. And of course, we'll be chatting to and serving customers whenever they come in. It's a very lively place with music on in the background and a constant stream of coming and goings. There's always several topics of conversation going on at any one time and lots of different distractions at regular intervals. Sometimes we'll all stop working and help the Art Director title and price paintings; sometimes we'll help to rearrange window displays and studio space; other times we'll be chatting about the latest boy band or holidays we're taking. It is a vibrant and varied day and it's wonderful. 

Are you a creative person and have the ARTHOUSE Meath artists inspired you in anyway to be more creative?

I enjoy how things look and and have always been particularly drawn to art brings together strong colours and a naive style . One of the reasons I wanted to work at the ARTHOUSE was to be surrounded by art that I loved -  not just because of it's provenance but because in itself it is just stunning work. Absolutely, I'm inspired by the work every week but have to admit that I haven't yet done anything about it.

Do you have any personal favourites from the collection available in the shop and online? 

I love the Garden jugs, they make great gifts. Practically everyone I know has one now! And the Relationship jug is a favourite as Sarah, who works with me in the shop on a Thursday, created that design.  All of the cards are so funny and poignant that I find myself wanting to buy them just in case the right occasion arises. The perennial best sellers are anything with the unique dogs, birds or cats designs on them. They fly off the shelves.

What’s next for you at ARTHOUSE Meath?

 I'd just love to continue to be involved in the evolution of ARTHOUSE Meath for as long as I can. 

ARTIST (Grace Oakley)

What do you enjoy most about your day at ARTHOUSE Meath?

There's a nice atmosphere and nice people to work with. It's relaxing and fun. And it's nice to have your work appreciated. It's nice being part of a team.

Is it hard work?

 No, not at all. Especially if you know what you're doing. But it can be complicated and it can take a while. 

What do you do at ARTHOUSE Meath?

Painting and drawing and we sit and chat. The artist tells us how it needs to be done and then we do it. 

If you could draw anything what would it be?

 A horse. I love horses. I have done since I was a little girl. I never used to be good at drawing horses or figures but I've got good through lots of practice. 

Have you been a part of any product drawings?

Yes, I drew the Dancers (which are another best seller and feature on cards and wrapping paper).

Why should people buy products from ARTHOUSE Meath?

Because we're raising money for The Meath and that's a good thing.

Thank you so much to Katie and Grace for taking the time to tell us all about the very inspiring ARTHOUSE Meath.

If you would like to find out more about ARTHOUSE Meath or buy any of their beautiful products then please visit the website.

Nice to see you again.

Xxx

All Things PP @ MArKEt - Old Palace

A big thank you to those of you who came to see us at MArKEt @ the fabulous West Street Loft at the beginning of the month.  This weekend we have round 2.  MArKEt @ Old Palace, Tarring, West Sussex.

Well time really is flying by at the moment, I wonder why that might be.  Now as many of you know I have another pending appointment in 10 days or so, baby no. 2 "Iggle Piggle" .  So if you are in the area on Saturday 23rd March, I would very much appreciate seeing some friendly faces.  The MArKEt will be open from 10-2pm.  I will be the heavily pregnant one, stuck behind her table, panting!!!

Other sellers include Justine Kimmer Illustrations, The Yarn Bunny, Angela Wright Photography, Handmade Unique Gifts, Min Cooper Prints, Karen Mayger, Amy Madge Jewellery, Loulou and Gill, Sewgirl, Lorraine Heaysman Landscape Photography, Naturally Silver, Fledging Crafts, Little Threads,, Kireina Jewellery, Incey Wincey Studio, Oranges and Orchids and I made these Little Mouses.

There will be cheese again from the very popular Dave's Deli.  Yummy Cakes from Honeycomb Cakes and a fabulous refreshment from a very retro Lui Creperie.

There will also be Easter workshops for children, provided by the brilliant Banana Pancakes.

Here's a sneaky peak at some of the items All Things PP will have available on sale.  Many of the items will be reduced.

Boy's Aprons

Girl's Aprons

Needle Books and Pin Cushions  was £3 now £2

Set of 4 Patchwork Coasters was £6 now £4

Kindle Covers

I Phone Covers

Sewing Themed I Pad Covers 

Baking Themed IPad Covers

3 Word Stack Hessian Signs was £10 now £6

3 Word Hessian Signs £8 now £5
2 Word Hessian Signs was £6 now £4

1 Word Hessian Signs was £4 now £2

Crayon Rolls was £6 now £4

Car Rolls was £8 now £6

I look forward to seeing you.

Nice to see you again

Xxx.

Interview with MArKEt

Next month see's the launch of MArKEt craft fairs, so who better to interview for today's blog, the organiser and very dear friend of mine, Rachel Cruz.

This spring you launch your first craft fairs across Sussex, how are you feeling?

Very excited! Everything is starting to come together now. We have a real eclectic mix of makers. I can’t wait to see all the talent on display under one roof and to open the doors to the public.

How did you get the idea for MArKEt?

I love going to similar events. I realized I had to always travel to get to them though! I also felt there was a demand for something bigger than the local craft fair but more affordable than the designers fairs.

What would you like to achieve from MArKEt?

I really hope to provide a platform for new talent to launch their career and to help connect makers and small businesses to potential buyers. I also wanted to create a contemporary shopping experience with only beautiful, up-to-the-minute things.

Most importantly I want to help support The Prince’s Foundation for Childrenand the Arts, one of the only national charities committed to ensuring that all children are inspired by the arts.


Have you faced any challenges in preparing for the craft fairs?

Nothing major yet (she says touching wood!). The trickiest part is finding the venues – I love beautiful venues but they are not always in the right location, the right size or available. I think we have got there though, West Street Loft in Shoreham, The Old Palace in Worthing and St John’s in Meads are all fantastic venues and are as unique as they are traditional which is exactly what I was looking for.

Do you have any recommendations for fellow crafters thinking about selling to the public?

Go for it! Craft has made a massive comeback and I believe people are seeking out things that set themselves or their home apart from the crowd. I know how hard it is to pluck up the courage to turn a hobby into a business but I believe if you have loved making it someone will love owning it just as much.

Are you a creative person, if so what do you like to make?

I like to think I am! I constantly find myself saying, “I could make that” but I never get round to it. I used to work as a seamstress and I recently went back to college to study silversmithing, I now work in interior design. I love trying new things and learning new skills.

You have an amazing eye for beautiful unique products, how do you know what goes well together? 

I don’t, I think that’s the key. The more eclectic and mis-matched things are I think the better they go together. Wherever possible I try to avoid matching, symmetry and uniformity. Sometimes it works and sometimes it completely doesn’t!

How would you describe your style?

Like the above. Mis-matched! I love mixing old with new, bright colours and monochrome and vintage florals with deckchair stripes.

Do you have a favourite designer, crafter or seller at the moment?

This is a difficult one as I have so many. I have spent a lot of time this last few months researching local crafts people and I have been completely astounded by the amazing talent in Sussex alone. I had to create a board on Pinterest so that I could remember all the wonderful things I was coming across everyday. I must admit I have made a shopping list for MArKEt of things I have already got my eye on!

Which blog is a favourite stalk of yours at the moment?

I wish I made more time to read blogs. I love freebies and tutorials and I am constantly getting new ideas from I Do It Yourself, Eat, Drink Chic and The Making Spot. Probably my favourite locally has to be Pearl and Earl. 

Thanks Rachel, wishing you all the best with your new venture. 


If you are free please do pop along to one of the Sussex MArKEt events in Spring.

All Things PP will be showcasing, so I would certainly appreciate some visitors.

Nice to see you again.
Xxx

Like Mother Like Daughter

This post has been inspired by an article in this months Mollie Makes ... Like mother, like daughter.  The article features some fantastic business, mother and daughter partnerships, including Cambridge Satchel Company, Miss Print, Ink Kit and my favourite local haberdashery Eternal Maker.

It's a bit early for Mothers Day I know, but there is no harm in saying thanks today, tomorrow and any other day.  I would most certainly like to give thanks today to my mum.

I have a lot to thank my mum for at the moment.  Along with a long list of unconditional things my mum does all the time for me and my family, she has stepped up once more, in response to yet another one of my requests.

On March 2nd, I will be selling All Things PP products at my Craft Fair debut at the West Street Loft, Shoreham, hosted by MArKEt.  This was another one of my grand ideas, perhaps another rushed decision, as once I committed to the idea, the realisation that I would be 8 months pregnant in March gradually hit me.

So what did I do?  

As I always do and always have done, I called on my mum for help.  

My mum is amazingly talented when it comes to sewing, knitting and other crafty creations.  Since I can remember mum has had her sewing machine out, in the early days it was mostly about making her own clothes.  I recall dresses, skirts, jackets, patchwork quilts, roman blinds, cardigans and jumpers.  Then as she became 'Granny', there followed a variety of knitted toys, blankets and clothes.  

I have definitely inherited some of her creative bones, and although on a much smaller scale, I am really enjoying following in her footsteps.

 So when I asked, as she always did and continues to do so...she agreed to help.

So our mother, daughter relationship ventures into a new stage as we enter our 'business partnership'.  Not only will she help me out on the day, she has offered to share her talents and create products for sale.  Yipppppppeeee!

If you are free and have time why not pop along to MArKEt and come and say hi to us both.

We will be selling hand-crafted gifts, such as Cross Stitch Hessian Signs, Utensil Rolls, Needlecraft Accessories, IPad and Kindle Covers as well as a variety of Fun Gifts for Children.  Check out All Things PP Facebook Page for up dates on all our products.  

I love being a mum to Little Miss P and I hope that as I venture into motherhood again next month, this time with a baby boy (better known as 'Iggle Piggle'), I can echo just a small portion of the example set by my mum and all she has offered me throughout the years.  I am forever grateful.

Nice to see you again

Xxx

Interview with SoMO

I wanted to start sharing with you some of my favourite bloggers and handmade friends, so I am going to begin by featuring interviews on my blog.

The first one comes courtesy of fellow S&B, crafty friend of mine, Sarah-Louise.  She has a wonderful blog called SoMO.  Her writing is thought provoking, her photo's are beautiful and her crochet is amazing.  She is certainly very creative.

When and why did you start your blog?

I started SoMO (space of mine own) in January 2012. I initially just wanted an outlet to share and remember my experiences and thoughts, and the things that I enjoy doing, and also crafting that I was doing with my daughter. I maybe had a vague idea that someday in the future I may want to turn something crafty into a business and it may tie in with the blog at some point, but this side of it has never really been a priority for me.

What would you like to achieve with the blog?

I read quite a few blogs that have, at various times, touched my heart, provided inspiration, or helped me feel like I’m not alone when times are rough. At this point, if I can do any one of those things for someone that visits my blog, I’d be happy. In the meantime, it’s a bit of an evolving beast of a journey! I’ve particularly noticed that my content has changed as my little girl is getting bigger and is getting busy with pre- school, playdates and activities away from home. It’s been a natural, gradual change, which is just how I like it.

What do you love most about having your blog?

I don’t think there’s just one thing I love most. I started writing at a similar time that my daughter was reaching an age where I was just getting back a little ‘me’ time, and the blog doesn’t stand alone. I also started my facebook page Space of Mine Own and discovered Pinterest (oh, how I love it!!) My Boards. All these things combined, helped me follow a journey of discovery & rediscovery in terms of crafting and the things I enjoy. I discovered crochet in the Autumn of 2011, and whilst I’ve tried lots of different things in the past (and will continue to do so), this is the one that I’m really loving and has stuck. I’ve also rediscovered how much I enjoy photography and am taking part in a few challenges that help focus my practice, but I guess if I had to pick one, the best thing is that I’ve discovered I actually really love writing...when I can find the time!

How would you describe your style?

My writing style is kind of how I talk in my head ~ a little on the dry side, but with warmth and honesty. My creative style is still (and hopefully always will be) a work in progress, but I love playing with colours and have quite a strong colouristic style. I like how crochet is being modernised and hope to develop my own ranges and designs as I get further along.

You are clearly very creative but if you had to pick one handmade activity which would it be?

Definitely crochet. As I mentioned, I’ve tried many different crafts from cardmaking, sewing, embroidery and tapestry, to painting furniture and making jewellery, but crochet is the only one that has kept my interest and I really want to keep learning and developing.

This weekend you have your first table at a local craft fair, how do you feel?

Petrified! I’m very nervous, but also excited. From small beginnings and all that...

What will you be selling?

Christmas decorations & gifts (or not if you’re like me & just have to have one for yourself too!) There will be pincushions, hair accessories, covered jars (one of my favourites), brooches, coasters and cute flower pencil toppers.

What have been the challenges in preparing for the craft fair?

Time. Being mummy and working part-time has meant that I tend to create in the evenings and it’s invariably been the wee hours before I’ve got to bed. Plus, starting from scratch with no prior ‘stock’ as it were, and deciding on products, pricing and quantity has been tough. Needless to say, the housekeeping has had a solid place at the bottom of the list!

Do you have any recommendations for fellow crafters thinking about selling to the public?

Show your work to anyone who will look and listen, and ask for feedback. My friends and family have been an enormous help with advice and encouragement, and also, posting work as I go along on my facebook page has been great as I can get more impartial feedback just by whether people hit that ‘like’ button.  In terms of selling, I’ll know more after the weekend myself, and I’m hoping to set up an on-line store in the New Year, so I think it’s me that needs advice for now!

Where do you get all your inspirational ideas from?

I love Mollie Makes magazine ~ it’s great for ideas in itself, but also, for finding other people whose work is amazing. I also love Pinterest. I’m just at the point where I can take a pattern but fiddle about with it a little so it suits what I want to do with it, but not quite able to design my own. I think it’s very important to provide credit to any originators though, and I will always do this where I have started from someone else’s pattern.

Which blog is a favourite stalk of yours at the moment?

I’ve become a bit of a blog addict & my Bloglovin’ list grows almost daily, but I always love posts from Rosy Little Things, Bleubird Vintage, Coco Rose Textiles

What is on your creative wishlist?

More time and more yarn!

What is next for you and your fabulous blog?

Well, there’s lots to update once the craft fayre is done. I’ve got loads from the Summer to catch up on and various photo challenges to post up, as well as the progress up to the fayre itself. I’ll be linking to any specific patterns I used or started from, plus how it all went.  I’ve had some product interest via facebook so I’ll be looking into that side of things, and then I’ll be working on developing my own style further into the New Year. 

A personal thanks to Sarah-Lou for taking the time out to talk to us.

If you like what you see then pop along to the Christmas Craft Fair at Broadwater Manor on Saturday 17th November, 12-4pm.

Nice to see you again.

Xxx