As the last few days of 2018 sneak by, and whilst enjoying some time out with my family I have the opportunity to reflect on the incredible year I’ve had.
Earlier in the year, before taking the leap into my own style and owning my uniqueness, I never could have imagined the feeling of wholeness I currently feel from my work. Listening to the ideas that would ‘drop in’ and giving them the time and energy they needed to develop, has shifted an.ti.quate from part time hobby to a true passion of which I am so incredibly proud of. They say when you choose a job you love you will never work a day in your life - it is completely true and i am living it!
March 2018 was the moment I believed in myself enough to share my first Upholstery Art design with the world. Upholstery Art means so much more to me than making a ‘pretty chair’, it’s a way to create emotive upholstery. An avenue for greater connection between you and your home furnishings and therefore your home and a way to showcase items that are typically sent to landfill in an artistic way, and in turn treading lighter on our beautiful planet.
Nine months after redefining my comfort zone, I now have numerous memories that have me grinning from ear to ear with delight.
From holding my first exhibition at the Australian International Furniture Fair and winning best small stand, to being featured in five magazines, whilst working with the most amazing clients, having my furniture apart of a gorgeous store, a lovely client travelling interstate to purchase one of my designs, a window display in Camberwell, and more recently being featured in Paper Box Media’s ‘Women in Art’ series whilst being integral to an amazing family history tribute that will be turned into a documentary.
I now have seven Upholstery Art pieces now out in the world, and another eight currently in the "chair line up" and ready to take shape. To say this year has been a buzzing whirlwind, would be an understatement that's for sure however I cannot wait for the opportunities that lay ahead for myself and an.ti.quate.
The word ‘grateful’ does not seem to come close to how truly blessed I feel to have the love and support of so many people.
So, to my friends and family, to those who have followed the journey from the start, and the ones encouraging me along the way, to my wonderful clients, my mentors and teachers, and to those who’ve helped spread my message and passion - from the bottom of my heart I thank you! You are very much a part of this journey and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve in 2019!
Have the most wonderful time ringing in the new year with loved ones by your side. Wishing you all a year of happiness ahead.