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REVIVAL VOLUME 12/ ISSUE 47

ESTILA

EDITORS Karolina Barnes Nicola McCullough / strawberryblondebeauty.com GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Aimee Stammers / aimeestammers.com Dessy Tsolova / fashioninsiders.co

PHOTOGRAPHERS Peter Atkinson

COVER ART Natalie Barnes, STUDIO/ESTILA A big thank you to all our editors, contributors and everyone who continues to support ESTILA. ESTILA bookazine is designed and published by STUDIO/ESTILA t/a Palantti Ltd. The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The views expressed in this publication are those CONTACT

of the respective contributors and are not necessarily

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shared by the publisher. Original work and

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photography are copyrighted by its owner.

Community website: estilacircle.com STUDIO/ESTILA: studioestila.com

ISSN 2398-9041 Printed in the United Kingdom.

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF ESTILA

“

This world is but a canvas to our imagination. Henry David Thoreau

”

FOR CREATIVES BY CREATIVES ESTILA bookazine tells the unspoken and powerful stories of amazingly talented creatives who have gone through frustrations, tipping points and aha-moments that have led them onto a path of entrepreneurship. From art and design to lifestyle, we touch on issues faced by modern creative businesses. But more importantly, with each issue we are growing a community of newcomers, changemakers, forward thinkers and inspirers, connecting designers, brands, artists and other creatives to each other. This is your networking source on paper. And so as you read through the following pages, ask yourself: "Can I spot a new contact or an opportunity for a collaboration?" Engage your creative thinking and imagination.

REVIVAL

VOLUME 12/ ISSUE 47

Featured brand stories NEWCOMERS

CHANGE MAKERS

FORWARD THINKERS

Shana Harrison p8 Evi Antonio 16

Monsoon and Beyond p20 Elizabeth Hay Design p28 Medik8 p34

Uncommon p40 Heaps + Stacks p52

SPECIAL GUEST ARTICLES Marketing: The power of storytelling p80 Fashion Business: Playing the global game p84 4

BLACK BOOK p 88

INSPIRERS Susi Bellamy p56 Éadach by Sara O'Neill p64 Sophia Shorr-Kon p72

EDITOR'S NOTES

hange is what we need. Everyone agrees. But change often is not easy.

Firstly, most don't like change. It's too much hard work. Secondly, change requires a collective input. That's why it takes time for it to happen. But if we are able to implement change, the world can be a better place. We can see progress and improvement in the quality of our lives. To me, improvement is in some way rooted in revival. We take something which we already have and make it better - whether that's working with local craftsmen and supporting their livelihoods while keeping traditional skills alive (read the story of Monsoon and Beyond on p20) or redefining workspaces by improving the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of employees and office workers (read the story of Uncommon on p40). It is very apparent to me that we need to include everyone in conversations and invite them to the table. If you have been with us from the start, you know that we champion creativity and give opportunities to anyone who has a great talent - whatever age, ethnicity or background. I'm very proud to present to you our first art cover created by a student (and my daughter), who is just about to start her degree in Interiors Architecture. Inside you will find insightful brand stories from around the world which, I hope, will add to the conversation and open your eyes to what's out there, beyond our borders. As always, thank you for reading and your continuous support. It truly means a lot. Without you, we wouldn't be able to provide such a supportive platform where small creative businesses can share their stories. Karolina Barnes / editor-in-chief

OUR COVER Art by Natalie Barnes

Revival

CHAPTER ONE

COMERS

NEW

definition

Newcomers are creative minds who are passionate about what they do and excited about their new journey. They have probably made some form of transition and personal reinvention. They are full of energy and enthusiasm and want everyone to know about them. Here we give them the space to introduce their story to you.

Shana Harrison

Giving a helping hand to interior design projects interview by Karolina Barnes, photography provided by Shana Harrison

met Shana Harrison at a networking event in Chester a year ago and was immediately

drawn to her infectious friendliness and warmth. We chatted for a while before she told me her story of living in Mexico and USA before moving to the UK. With her background in art and interior design and her multicultural experiences, Shana is an exclusive UK sales representative for luxury brands US based Porter Teleo and Arteriors (Midlands and North England only). Here I chat with her about her amazing journey and how she helps interior designers and trade clients deliver successful projects.

Tell us a little bit about your journey. How did you get to representing the amazing brands you have on your portfolio? I come from a family of engineers – all three of my siblings are. I am a blend of right brain and left brain. I’ve always chosen a more creative path, as that is where my heart is. I have a fine arts degree and worked as an art director and product designer for many years before going back to get an interior design degree. I took on design projects while obtaining the degree while also working as a consultant. Then I became a mother, and we moved from Kansas City to Mexico for my husband’s career. I had my second child there.

When we returned to the USA from Mexico, I reconnected with a photographer I knew from my art direction days and I took on selling artwork by him and his wife to interior designers and architects. I completed a large project – a country club – where I sourced all the artwork in the building and oversaw its installation right before we moved to England. We moved because of my British husband’s career and to give our children a more worldly experience than they would have had in the middle of America. Once I obtained my visa, got our home set up (including an extension project) and my kids settled in their new country, new schools, etc., I could start thinking about my career again! I was starting completely from scratch with friends and business contacts. I’ve followed Kelly Porter’s artwork as she displayed in my favourite gallery in Kansas City. Another mutual friend knew Kelly and we were both making comments on a Facebook post one Sunday afternoon. I commented that I would like to be an agent for them in the UK. Kelly saw it and said she would speak to Bridgett (the other co founder) and that is how I became an agent for Porter Teleo. The reasons I love being an agent for them are: 1. Porter Teleo comes from Kansas City where I lived for 20 years. 2. The brand is a women owned business that employs female artists. 3. Both brands, Arteriors and Porter Teleo, combine art and interior design which suits my interests and experience to a tee.

Porter Teleo Founders Kelly Porter and Bridgett Cochran

What do you enjoy most when working with designers? Can you describe the process of working with them on projects? As a creative, I love creating art which is my favourite pastime activity, I like working with designers, helping them solve their problems while forming collaborations. What drives me most is seeing my clients deliver successful projects and being part of that journey. To be of service and work within a team is what I enjoy the most. I am very much a people's person, and I love meeting interesting people and working with them. On the other hand, I love doing the estimating, converting from Imperial mea-surements to metric, and getting the most cost - effective solution for my clients. The way I work is very similar to a showroom setting but remotely. I can send samples and work with designers on specifications, lead times and deliveries. Currently, I am open to taking on more lines that compliment Porter Teleo and Arteriors, so that I can offer my clients more to help them with their projects, which is very exciting.

“

I love the creative aspect of my job as well as doing the estimates and helping my clients deliver successful projects.

Porter Teleo: Zeta Aubergine Next page from top left: Brushstrokes | Floral Graffiti Ardoise | Painterly Plaid Geranium | Signs + Signifiers Gris 12

ABOUT PORTER TELEO The creative vision of abstract artist Kelly Porter and designer Bridgett Cochran, Porter Teleo is an exquisite collection of handmade textiles and wall coverings that utilises traditional fine art techniques. Using the nest materials and richest pigments available, Porter Teleo strives to amplify the vision of each individual designer....merging the beauty of fine art and design together into one world. Porter, an award winning painter whose artwork hangs in museums, galleries and celebrity homes, and Cochran, a designer with an eye for detail and distinctiveness, quickly found a common bond: they were looking to capture and create something totally new for the design world. A collaboration has resulted in an innovative way of making wallpaper and fabric, relying on an intuitive, creative process. The result of their passion is a beautiful, unique collection with an energetic and visually stunning set of patterns and colour palettes. Within each new collection, Porter Teleo continues to push the limits with both original imagery and new palettes. Striving to break new ground in aesthetics, Porter Teleo aims to set the trends, rather than follow existing standards, constantly looking forward rather than around in order to bring the freshest product to the marketplace.

This page: Arteriors Royalton Oval Pendant ABOUT ARTERIORS Founded by Mark Moussa in 1987, Arteriors is a leading lighting and furniture company. Through close collaborations with skilled artisans from around the world, Arteriors has set the pace with unique designs that transcend trends. From understated to the unexpected, they offer an extraordinary assortment with special attention to material, texture, scale and finish.

For any project requirements, samples or more information, please contact Shana on +44 (0)7446 886 325 IG @shanaharrisonuk | https://linktr.ee/shanaharrisonuk

Artist Story

Creative legacy with Evi Antonio words by Evi Antonio

was born in North London, surrounded by an urban landscape. While growing

up, I dreamt of the countryside and nature, being fascinated by and immersed in the images of natural history books. This interest was cultivated during my teenage years and further developed when I studied and graduated with a BA (hons) degree in Scientific and Natural History at Middlesex University, London. After graduating, I worked for many years as a natural history illustrator on many publications, using traditional watercolour techniques. I went on to run a successful illustration agency alongside my husband. Our studio was in a nature reserve, which was a perfect location for me. I was able to immerse myself in the surroundings, which inspired my work and love for natural history. After having and raising our two children, I returned to the studio but decided to explore a new contemporary art form. My creative approach was informed by a combination of professional experience, an almost obsessive eye for detail and a real passion for the traditions of natural history illustration.

Embracing new technology to express my new vision, I have decided to combine digital painting with hand finished and glazed prints, using the highest quality fine art paper in small editions or one-of-a-kind pieces. Painting digitally, using Photoshop and a digital pen, I applied the same level of detail and understanding as I did when I used to paint traditionally. Butterflies, insects and lobsters are a common theme in my work, but in my more recent work I have been focusing on the beauty, symmetry and patterns mainly in butterflies. In 2012, I was accepted and exhibited in the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, where my whole edition of "Jonos Lobster" sold. Since then, I have exhibited my work both as a solo artist and in group shows all over the UK and Affordable Art Fairs. In 2016, I won a prize for best artist, East of England with the National Open Art competition and also was The Secret Art Prize runner up winner in 2018. Most recently, I was one of the winners of The Cult House Open Call 2019, in collaboration with Runway Gallery, which resulted in a successful exhibition in Blacks Club, Soho in London. Runway Gallery now represents me, and I'm very happy to be part of their family. Their support and enthusiasm for my work have been amazing.

Tropical Morpho 17

Since moving back to London in 2017, I have discovered a new found inspiration in the street art and graffiti around East London. This is heavily reflected in my latest work, but my love of nature remains rooted and prevails. MY INSPIRATION I seek out moments that occur in my present urban setting, where evolving abstract beauty, deconstruction and decay collide. In nature, I see infinite patterns, symmetry, intricate and perfect. On the streets, I see something similar emerging from unexpected beauty on the walls and streets as I walk around London. I’d like to take the viewer on my journey where my love for nature and urban landscape collide and combine in harmony.

Sunset on Whitecross

Website: eviantonio.co.uk | Represented by RUNWAY GALLERY: runway-gallery.com IG: @eviantonioart 18

CHAPTER TWO

MAKERS

CHANGE

definition

Changemakers are creative minds who are on a mission to change the world for the better. They spend a lot of time researching, gathering information, knowledge and resources which help them in making that change happen. Sometimes changemakers see small details in problems the world is facing and use them as their starting point of their story. Here we share some of those stories.

Brand Story

Enchanting journeys through India with Monsoon and Beyond interview by Karolina Barnes, images provided by Monsoon and Beyond

fter living in France, England, Italy and Sweden, for an Austrian born Vera Fritsch

it was her corporate job that has brought her to India. She fell in love with the country and founded Monsoon and Beyond with the idea to bring India's beauty, culture and magic to everyone's home around the world. Over the years, Monsoon and Beyond has evolved into a lifestyle and fashion brand, with a strong ethos based around design, craftsmanship and sustainability. With global audiences and stockists worldwide, each collection tells a visual story of inspirations and emotions, taking customers on a journey through India. I caught up with Vera to tell me more about Monsoon and Beyond's early days and her passion for creating design with a soul.

Tell us a little bit more about the story of Monsoon and Beyond. How did you get the idea and concept for the brand? I grew up in the picturesque town of Frohnleiten in Southern Austria, and although it was beautiful, I always felt the urge to travel and discover other countries and cultures. Through my education I lived in France, the UK, Italy and Sweden, but it was when I accepted a job at a diplomatic mission in New Delhi that I signed up for the ultimate adventure. That was in 2007, and ever since India has been my home. Although I had studied economics, my true passion has always been fashion and design. My experiences in India are what triggered me to translate this passion into a profession. Everyday life in India is so inspiring: the faded wall of a medieval tomb in Old Delhi; the dusty pink sandstone buildings of Jaipur’s old town; the sunset from the rooftop of my apartment that colours the roofs and Gulmohar trees in shades of saffron; all of these views were magical. They inspired me translate the emotions into designs and bring India’s beauty and cultural heritage to everyone's home. That’s why I started Monsoon and Beyond. India’s beautiful indigenous fabrics such as chanderi, khadi, silk and cotton as well as the incredible textile artisans and craftsmen in this country are the foundation of the brand. From the beginning, the brand has been based on the idea of celebrating the rich traditional textile techniques that India has to offer and blending those ancient crafts with a contemporary, Western design sensibility. This is the brand’s signature style and sets us apart from all others. Since starting Monsoon and Beyond, has the vision evolved or changed in any way? Yes, it has. I started with home furnishings – designing handmade, hand-printed and handembroidered cushions and bed sets. It was during one of my fabric sourcing trips to Old Delhi that I stumbled upon a craftsman who was incredibly gifted at intricate hand-embroidery – he was working on the most beautiful embroidered minaudière clutch I had seen thus far. That is what inspired me to add accessories to my product portfolio. The launch of my first clutch collection was at the NY NOW exhibition in New York in 2017. I was blown away by the reaction to the launch and thrilled that one of my bags was selected as “best new product” at the show. That encouraged me to focus more on accessories. In 2018 I launched my first clothing collection called JODHPUR RESORT. This was a collection of ﬂowy silk and cotton pieces inspired by the historic city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan known as the “Blue City” of India. The signature print was made using the ancient craft of “Block Printing” which dates back to the 12th century.

Your ethos is about sustainability. How hard is it for you to find suppliers and stockists who share your philosophy? In the beginning, I had all these ideas for designs and patterns but I failed in finding a producer that would attempt to pay enough attention to the details of my designs and artworks. My volumes were small and some of my designs were too intricate for them to produce. I also discovered that most producers could not meet my quality standards. Eventually, I realised that the only way to get the designs and quality standards that I follow would be to be as hands on as possible with niche artisanal workshops that employ not just labour but artists that are experts in their field. I began my hunt for boutique manufacturers who work with expert artisans from all over the country. Today I collaborate with artisanal workshops in Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. I have a close relationship with each workshop. All my customised handmade borders and laces are made by the wonderful Kartik and his team in Delhi. Our hand-printed fabrics and most of the embroideries and stitching is done in workshops in Jaipur. The final finishing of the pieces is done by Sachin and his team in Delhi. Every single piece we produce feels special and valuable because it is being created in collaboration with artisans who I know personally. It makes me incredibly proud to be able to say that I do my part to support the artisanal community and their families and ultimately to help preserve handcraft techniques that are slowly disappearing. You work with artisans and tell stories through your collections. How important are storytelling and craftsmanship to your brand? My inspiration for the brand has always been expressing my interpretation of India to the world through my collection. This is how I title the collections and how I design them. With each collection I take my customers on a journey through India. JAIPUR HAVELI, for example, is a collection of handmade clutch bags inspired by the intricately adorned historical townhouses (Havelis) of Jaipur. Our bed set collection AKBAR AND ANARKALI is inspired by the enchanting love story between the Mughal emperor Akbar and Nadira Begum in the 14th century. According to folklore, Akbar was so enamored by Nadira’s beauty that he named her “Anarkali”, meaning "pomegranate blossom". That is why this collection features various patterns interpreting Mughal pomegranate drawings and themes. TAJ MAHAL, our autumn winter clothing collection is inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. Through elaborate print designs echoing the marble inlay art of the monument, I aimed to capture the myth and ornamental beauty of the Taj. 25

What was the inspiration behind the latest collection? QUEEN OF JAIPUR is inspired by early 20th century India, the era of Maharani Gayatri Devi who was considered one of the most beautiful women in the world and was celebrated as a fashion icon both in India and in Europe. Elegantly draped chiffon saris in soft shades of pastel were her signature style, which I honoured in this collection. The Maharani was more than just a symbol of beauty and grace: in conservative India, she opened several all girl’s schools and was elected not once but three times into political office. With Queen of Jaipur I wanted to honour the legacy of this intelligent, progressive woman and queen. The feminine designs are crafted from silk chiffon, satin and cotton fabrics. Each of our original prints tells a fascinating story and captures the essence of the era of the Maharani. The floral print SECRET GARDEN for example, is inspired by India's royal pleasure gardens which were commissioned by Indian kings for the royal ladies. These gardens were famous for their lush flowers and lawns, marble art and fountains. The print pattern is full of little secrets. When you look closer, you will find hidden elephant trunks and peacocks beautifully interlaced with floral motifs in bright hues of lilac and green.

Website: monsoonandbeyond.com IG: @monsoonandbeyond 27

ESTILA Volume 12 REVIVAL