Meet the Creatives - Indie Relief Raffle
Creatives Supporting Communities
In the creative industries in Scotland there is a strong sense of community. Creatives supporting creatives, sharing knowledge and working together on projects and growing. When there’s a shout out for creatives to support the wider community, they step up. It makes me so proud to be part of that community.
Our Indie Relief Raffle is a perfect example of that. In April we were put into lockdown, many creatives lost a lot of their income through not being able to do workshops or show at markets. However, for most the home is the safest place where we can hunker up and wait it out. But for some, mainly women the home is not safe. With domestic abuse and intimate partner violence set to rise during lockdown many women are in the most unsafe place possible for them. But what can we do?
After seeing the Makers Food Bank Raffle by Freya IM Rachel from Hackley contacted myself, Fiona of Camban Studio and Helen of Helen Ruth Scarves to ask if we wanted to do something similar to help raise funds for Grampian Women’s Aid. We’ve often done things together in the past, developing these ideas in our Whatsapp group - “Crisis Wine”. Of course, it was a massive yes from us all.
Obviously, we were nervous about reaching out to other creatives, but everyone was amazing. Before we knew it, we had over 40 contributors and £3K worth of prizes. They are all incredible individuals or brands. It’s important to shine a light on these glorious folks who are putting others before themselves by doing anything they can! I sent out 4 questions to each and here are their replies, enjoy!
Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
What is getting you through lockdown?
Who empowers you when you need support?
Sleekit – Iain Mac
Instagram - @sleekitstore
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“My work is a mix of hand illustrated designs inspired by nature, colour and collage, basically telling tales through textiles (silk scarves). I work digitally too as I believe they go hand in hand for me to be sustainable.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“I said yes because I fully believe in Grampian Women’s Aid as a charity, to support and empower their cause. I was solely brought up by my mum and can see why this is so important for vulnerable people, especially at this really difficult time.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“My family are getting me through lock down, that and putting all my energy into a new mini scarf collection, which is consisting of a lot of hand drawn insects, I can’t complain because I’ve got a lot of free time at the moment...being at home.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“My friends empower me and support me to keep going, thank god we have the technology to keep in touch, especially with zoom, Skype and WhatsApp etc. I think it’s important to keep in contact with everyone and make sure your friends and family are safe and feeling ok!”
Science on a Postcard – Heidi Gardener
Instagram - @scienceonapostcard
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Science On A Postcard is all about sparking conversations between those who love science and those who haven't discovered it yet. A lot of the time people think of scientists as nerdy old white guys pouring colourful liquids into test tubes all day, but that's really not the case. My products aims to demonstrate that scientists come in all shapes and sizes, and that science can actually be super interesting and fun if you just give it a chance.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“Honestly, it was a no brainer! As soon as I was asked if I wanted to take part I said yes - I had been thinking about what I could do charity-wise and hadn't settled on anything, getting together with a big group of creatives was a perfect opportunity for us to raise as much money as possible for a brilliant local cause.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“My dog, Barney. We got him at the end of January and us being at home all of the time has meant he's settled in super quickly. We've been going out on a long walk every day, and seeing how things like greenery etc has changed on each of those walks has been a lovely reminder that the world is still turning.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“My Mum. She's going through chemotherapy at the moment and not being able to see her as she goes through her treatment is really difficult. If I'm having a bit of a down day she makes sure to make me laugh and keep me smiling even though she's got her own stuff to deal with. She runs her own business making greetings cards, and she's still working away during lockdown.”
Frieda Strachan
Instagram - @frieda_strachan
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I am a self-taught fibre artist - weaving is my main gig, but I am branching out into other forms of fibre craft. I recently made what I think is Scotland's first outdoor fibre mural as part of VictoriArt Road's Mural Health Walk - it's on display in Torry so you can nip out and see it any time! I love being DIY and it's an important part of my practice. I make textural, messy, abstract work, but also do some participatory stuff - leading workshops in schools and running the FibreKnot meet-up (which is running online for the time being!).”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“When at university I was sexually assaulted by someone I knew, and it hit me really hard. Looking back, I realise now that my behaviour became really self-destructive and damaging. I moved to London to get out of Aberdeen and ended up in a very abusive relationship. They treated me how I thought I deserved to be treated and the physical, mental and emotional abuse just became something I accepted was part of a 'loving' relationship. I obviously wasn't in Grampian at the time that happened, but when I think about my self-worth at the time it really breaks my heart. I wish I didn't wait so long to find help. I didn't know I was worth more and deserved better, and my heart breaks thinking about people in positions like that. That heartbreak has heightened knowing some women are stuck indoors in situations similar to mine - anything I can do to contribute to raising awareness for organisations like Grampian Women’s Aid, as well as supporting their services - I am there. I always had the option to leave, but some people must feel like they have no escape - it means a lot to offer support to an organisation relieving that stress and suffering.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown? Who empowers you when you need support?
“I am so grateful to be in lockdown with my best friend - my sister Christine. It's maybe the least we have argued our whole lives - I think we both know it's not worth it! We have spent the majority of the time laughing at each other and making up songs... We are definitely going crazy, but we accept that this is how things are, and we just need to make ourselves as content as possible. She regularly reminds me these few months are just a tiny blip in our lives and it will all be worth it. She's the wise older sister. And hilarious. My boyfriend has been a great source of patience and understanding when I've been feeling overwhelmed. I need to work hard on my mental health - being outdoors and seeing people is a big part of maintaining it, and it’s great to have someone looking out for me even though we are in different time zones. He calls when I wake up, calls when he wakes up and then calls again to wish me a good night. We sometimes set up our devices to watch tv or play video games together and send each other packages. It's nice to have a routine and something small to look forward to. Alongside these two important people, making things definitely offers me the support I need to feel good - whether it's just winding yarn, looking at colourways or actually making. It all helps, creativity is definitely my biggest asset when it comes to my wellbeing!”
Le Petit Moose – Stephanie Fradette
Instagram - @lepetitmoose
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I’m Stephanie, the creative person behind fibre art brand Le Petit Moose. I love incorporating bold colours into my woven wall hangings, to showcase rich textures, contemporary design and craftsmanship. I also teach fibre-based workshops and work part-time as Creative Learning Coordinator at the Barn, in rural Aberdeenshire. You can purchase woven work and DIY kits via www.etsy.com/shop/lepetitmooseand follow my fibre art journey via @lepetitmoose”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“So proud of being able to lend a helping hand by donating a weaving kit to the raffle prizes for the Indie Relief Raffle. The Grampian Woman’s Aid is such an important cause to support. I can’t imagine feeling like a prisoner in your own home when fearing living with your abuser 24/7…these women must feel like there is no way forward. That is why our help is so important for these families in these unprecedented times.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Everything has changed so much since the end of March and I’m definitely not feeling as productive as I was before, but found that having one achievable business, house and child-focused goal for the day helps me stay mentally healthy amongst these uncertain times. Remember that this is all uncharted territory for most of us, who are usually, busy multitasking and planning our daily lives. Now I try and simplify my actions and thoughts, doing one thing at a time and savouring the little moments of joy.”
Third Eye Tribe - Melissa
Instagram – @ thirdeyetribe_uk
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“My name is Melissa and I am the founder of Third Eye - Creating Sacred Space For Conscious Living. I promote mindful and conscious lifestyles through my offerings; teaching Vinyasa Yoga, Meditation, Moon Gatherings, Cacao Ceremonies & Ecstatic Dance Events, as well as an online shop selling various eco-conscious spirited goods to support your yoga/meditation/personal practises/conscious lifestyle.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“To be part of the change I would like to see in the world. I believe strongly in creating community. In small local businesses and organisations supporting one another. This cause in particular is so close to my heart after experiencing my own struggles with domestic abuse in the past.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“The belief that we are moving towards something greater. That in our slowing down the Earth with heal and as a species we will level up. This is a powerful time of transition and it's going to be greater than we ever imagined. There is great opportunity for us to alchemise this global situation and as a result fast track our evolution as individuals and as a whole species. I believe a new world is being created and that is a really exciting prospect. It's an exciting thought; the idea of world transforming in a way that nourishes and brings balance to humanity and nature.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“Mother Earth. Connecting with nature always brings me back into the present moment in times of struggle. We can learn so much from the cycles of nature - resilience, strength, surrender, adaptability, nourishment. My daily routine involves waking early to greet the sun as she rises. I walk along the beach, hike up the hills and through the woods. I am reminded that everything is temporary and always changing. I am reminded of the beauty that can be found in all things. I am reminded of the interconnected-ness of everything and in these savouring moments I feel the universe coming together. I feel it's support and agreement with my chosen path. And from this place I align with my own cycles through acceptance. I move away from doubt and can embrace the challenges knowing it brings gifts of growth through lessons. In doing so I connect with my inner power through unwavering faith.”
Mimi Hammill
Instagram - @mimi_hammill
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I'm a surface pattern designer with a background in medicine and health publishing. Sharp lines and crisp, bright colour define my pattern style. I have studied, worked and played in Glasgow, London, and Singapore respectively, and I have been based in Aberdeen (on and off) since 2006.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“Because in the face of this pandemic I feel helpless. I’m just a pattern designer. My machining skills aren’t up to sewing scrubs for key workers, so all I can do is stay home, school my children as best I can, and count my blessings. Donating a prize to this raffle is pretty much the only way I feel I can financially support vulnerable people who might be falling through the net. I’m so proud that Rachel asked me, and the amount of money raised so far is phenomenal.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Coffee, listening to foreign-language radio to minimise everybody’s news overwhelm, and our little garden. I’m so grateful we have some outdoor space.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“I find my Instagram community hugely supportive. I’m lucky enough to have carved out a wonderful gang of followers, near and far, friends, family and cheerleaders I’ve yet to meet. They have ramped up support for my business by buying more products than ever and their interactions encourage me daily. I don’t know what I’d have done without them. They’re keeping my business and my optimism afloat.”
Mairi Helena
Instagram - @mairihelena
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Mairi Helena is an Edinburgh based textiles & wallpaper surface design label, offering a high-end contemporary Scottish inspired print range for interiors. Created through elements of her photographic portfolio of landscapes to produce abstract surface prints, the collections include lavish print velvet cushions, bold wallpapers and lampshades as well as velvet and linen fabrics by the metre.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“Domestic abuse is an extremely important topic to highlight and support, especially so during this time of lockdown. A surreal time for us all but for others a particularly scary one. This is an opportunity to raise money and awareness for a vital local charity.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“An opportunity to be creative and have time to think of new ideas. Also, family time - a time to take in a slower pace of life…”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“Holly Tucker - great source of inspiration and encouragement for small independent businesses. Also, those around me, my peers who are all successfully running their own businesses and continuing to do amazing things during this time, creating wonderful work. The creative industry is hugely inspiring.”
Collingwood-Norris – Flora
Instagram - @collingwoodnorris
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work/brand?
“I design and make colourful luxury knitwear and offer a bespoke visible mending service and (currently digital) mending workshops. I value craftsmanship and quality, and either make pieces myself or have them made in small batches in a mill only had an hour away from me in the Scottish Borders. I think wearing colours you love can help lift your mood and make you feel confident.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“Partly because it’s being organised by friends, and wonderful small businesses, but also because I can imagine just how awful lockdown must be for those for whom home isn’t safe, and how important it is for them to have somewhere to turn.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Mending! My work has changed focus during lockdown to focus more on visible mending and repairs, and I find it hugely relaxing, focussing and satisfying when I fix something.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“My mum and my sister- they provide very different types of encouragement, but I know they both believe in me and will give me the support I need.”
Native Sister - Aimi
Instagram - @ native__sister
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Native Sister is a bespoke, affordable luxury online gifting service that celebrates independent, British brands. Our customers can choose between pre-curated gift boxes or designing one which is tailored to suit their taste and budget.
We want to breathe new life into the way we celebrate our relationships. Gifts can either be sent to the customer or straight to the recipient making it easier than ever to let loved ones know you’re thinking about them even if from afar, which feels particularly apt given the current situation!
One of the main ideas behind our business is that we wanted to introduce people to lots of amazing, talented independent brands. So, in buying one of our gift boxes people can feel good about themselves as they know that not only are they getting a unique, thoughtful gift but they are simultaneously supporting several independent brands in the process.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women's Aid?
“After learning more about the cause the question for us was why wouldn’t we want to be part of the Indie Relief Raffle. It’s a very worthy cause which really needs highlighting especially at a time like this. We love being able to help out with charities as often as we can.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“My dogs, sunshine and a positive attitude (the positive attitude might have something to do with my husband ensuring the house is always stocked with chocolate and gin!)”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“My sisters. Very cheesy but it’s true. They are very empathetic people and are always able to offer the right balance of honesty/sympathy in any given situation. They know my flaws and weakness and are always there to give me a boost when I need support.”
Lindsay and Yoshi – Lindsay
Instagram - @ lindsayandyoshi
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I'm an illustrator and graphic designer so I like to mix them to create patterns and prints for anything from silk scarves to stationery. My designs are inspired by the wonderful wild life of North East Scotland, land and sea!”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“I was just so happy to be able to donate a prize to help out and do something positive during the current situation.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Gardening with my son, looking after our pets and drawing. We've also been fortunate enough to have a stock of paint and materials to continue work on our home renovation!”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“All my loved ones including the little robin that visits my garden.”
Aimi Cairns Jewellery
Instagram - @aimicairnsjewellery
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I’m Aimi Cairns an independent jeweller working from my home studio in Aberdeenshire. I mostly work with silver and semi-precious gemstones. My jewellery has a geometric, Art Deco style with bold frames outlining dark backgrounds.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“I am pleased to support Grampian Women’s Aid through the Indie Relief Raffle. Having a safe and secure home environment is something most people take for granted. The victims of domestic abuse and violence really need extra support especially at this challenging time.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“My family are getting me through lockdown. I’ve found it challenging and stressful in lots of ways, but I am very fortunate to have a safe home, a happy family and a garden to enjoy the sunshine in!”
“I want to say a huge thank you to Rachel, Mhairi, Fiona and Helen for organising the raffle and raising a phenomenal amount for such a worthy cause. It’s an honour to be included in the line-up of fantastic indie businesses. You can find me at www.aimicairns.com and Instagram @aimicairnsjewellery”
Studio Benzie – Sarah Benzie
Instagram - @studiobenzie
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I’m Sarah and I have a small printed textiles brand, Studio Benzie. I love texture and pattern and I really enjoy experimenting with printing on different fabrics. I am inspired by the world around me and my favourite combination right now is the contrast of detailed metallic foils on Harris tweed.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“I’m really pleased to be involved with the Indie Relief Raffle, along with so many amazing makers. With a background of charity work, I know the importance of supporting Grampian Women’s Aid at this unprecedented time. It is great to be able to contribute something positive, and I know the funds raised will go far. I also love how this has pulled together so many from the creative community and I find that really inspiring.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“With two small people to entertain and attempt to home school, it’s not always easy to work on Studio Benzie right now. I have been experimenting with lino print and collage when I can, and really enjoying the process. I am lucky to live with the countryside on my doorstep and that (along with good sing-along music, coffee and wine) is getting me through lockdown.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“When I need support, my family and friends are who I turn to. I have a great support network, and though I am missing face-to-face with many of them, I know they are there for me and for that I am grateful.”
Hackley – Rachel
Instagram - @hackleybags
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I create bold, striking and playful bags and accessories from my studio in Aberdeen. I really like to play around with colour and the texture of the materials I use to make everyday items that bring a little bit of joy. I haven’t always worked in design and I am just so happy that I am able to now do something I really feel passionate about.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women's Aid?
“I felt really lost and unsure as to how I could do anything to help during the crisis. Once I had seen the Glasgow Makers Foodbank Raffle and how successful they had been I realised this was something I could do to try to do some good. I am incredibly lucky to have you three (Helen, Fiona and Mhairi) as friends and peers so when you all said you were on board too it was a no brainer.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown
“Cooking! I have really been enjoying taking more time to cook and experiment with new recipes. It has just been nice to give a bit more time and thought to something that very often doesn’t get much thought because we are so busy and don’t have the time to devote to it. Another huge thing that has been helping has been working with you guys on the raffle. It has been really great to pour my energy and focus into something so important and feel like I am able to use my efforts to do some good. Keeping in touch with people has been a really important thing to stay upbeat and connected. We have been in more regular contact with some family and friends than we even were before the crisis and that has been brilliant.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“I am incredibly lucky to have a really amazing network of family and friends. My husband is my constant champion, my family are always there to listen and my friends are amazing. After going through quite a difficult time a few years ago I have tried to always be quite vocal and frank when it comes to reaching out for help and support and discussing how my mental health is. This has been really empowering and I have learned that reaching out for support is not something to be ashamed of, quite the opposite. I think we have all felt a huge additional strain on our mental wellbeing during this crisis and by discussing this in as open a way as possible has helped my friends and family pull together and help each other through.”
Helen Ruth Scarves – Helen
Instagram - @helenruthscarf
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Helen Ruth is a luxury accessories label specialising in digitally printed silk and wool scarves, printed and hand-finished in Scotland.
Each scarf starts with original hand-drawn illustrations, usually in pen and ink. designs are inspired by the wild Scottish landscape and animal life, as well as fairy tales and traditional folklore. Each scarf tells its own story – a well known and loved tale, an old saying or a personal childhood memory, giving the wearer an emotional connection to the piece. Often spiking beautiful design and illustration with subtle sinister undertones, there is always more than meets the eye!”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women's Aid?
“Since the lockdown started, I've been feeling slightly at a loss as to where to direct my energy, with events bring cancelled and projects put on hold. We've had a little whatsapp group between myself, Hackley, Paper Houses Design and Camban Studio on the go for a while now and we had been chatting about how we had all been feeling about our work, and could we do something positive to help others in need right now. That's how the idea of the raffle came about, and as Fiona has links to Grampian Women's Aid through her work this seemed an important cause that needed support right now. While staying in our homes is the safest option right now, it's not the case for everyone and we wanted to do something to help those who are in a less fortunate situation than ourselves. It has been really humbling to hear stories from people getting involved about what the charity means to them.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“I'm lucky in that I have a little studio at home so have been able to work on some creative projects, things that I wouldn't normally have time to do, trying out new ideas and experimenting. I've started a new sketchbook with some painting, it's been so fun playing about with paints and not worrying about where this is going, or am I really being productive here? Of course, there has been lots of eating and drinking too, and hilarious family quizzes over zoom at the weekend.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“I've got an amazing support crew of family and friends. Running a small business, yourself is definitely not a one-person show, I'm so lucky to have the support of my family who muck in and help with design fairs and post runs and even my accounts, I definitely couldn't do it without them. When I'm feeling fed up with it all they help me put things in perspective and get on with the next thing. I also think there is a brilliant supportive creative community in Aberdeen - if you have a problem with something then reach out and more than likely another designer will have been there before you and more than happy to help or offer advice.”
Copperhead Soft Goods – Nick Hemmings
Instagram - @copperheadsoftgoods
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Copper Head Soft Goods. The name comes from the humble copper rivet, which is arguably the strongest connection in leatherwork – I use them a lot. And if you see me in person you will see I also have a copper head
The “details” are key to me and I want my products to fulfil three basic requirements:
Form – to have simple and clean aesthetics
Function – perform the job they were designed to do and last as long as possible
Feel – feel great to the touch and stimulate the senses as they evolve over time
My creations draw inspiration from Japanese craft and processes, vintage fashion and structures in nature.
I find leather an incredibly interesting material to work with due to its natural qualities. I use vegetable tanned and full grain leather as much as possible. As I learned more about the tanneries that produce these leathers, I realised the traditional methods they use are a testament to what they produce – you get out what you put in.
I am constantly striving to improve my techniques and create the best possible leather goods. You can rest assured that my products are 100% handmade by me – no machines or automated processes – using only the finest materials. I believe in the ethos of ‘buy well, buy once’ to save money and the environment in the long run.”
2.Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“If there is a time when we all need to stick together and think of others it is most certainly now. It’s a very important cause and the most venerable people need help and support more than ever. Generally, I find the crafting and creative community such an inspirational group and really happy to join in and help out where I can.”
3.What is getting you through lockdown?
“My wee family, hand stitching and our garden - we’re ambitiously attempting to grow enough fruit and veg to never leave our home again!!”
4.Who empowers you when you need support?
“My wife and mother in law, in particular, have always been super supportive of my venture into leathercraft. My parents and brother have always been there to talk through the tough times. My wee girl’s giggle always makes me smile. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have some brilliant and inspiring bosses / colleagues at my day job.”
Rooted – Fiona
Instagram - @rootedinscotland
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“My love of houseplants is at the heart of “Rooted”. I love the impact that houseplants have on our space and on our well-being. It really is good to be surrounded by greenery and to take time to water and tend to plants. Research shows that houseplants purify the air and make us happier and more productive. The theme of “Rooted” is all things botanical and I also sell the beautiful work of local makers including ceramics, illustrations including prints and cards, macramé, soap and candles - things to enhance and make our lives more beautiful. I am currently offering a “Click & Collect” service to the Aberdeen area and items can be ordered via www.rootedinscotland.com”
2. Why did I say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle?
“I strongly believe that no-one should be afraid in their own home. No-one should be subjected to emotional or physical abuse and it can be difficult, embarrassing and humiliating to tell anyone that the person who should love you the most is harming you in some way. Every support should be given to women in this situation, who may be feeling even more trapped in the current lockdown situation.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Trying to keep my business ticking over so I can open the shop again once lockdown is over is a big focus at the moment and keeps me very busy. Also, spending time with my family and tending to my plants gives me much joy.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“I get fantastic support from other women running small, independent businesses. They are always there for support and advice. My family is also very supportive and proud of what I am doing. I also have the best customers who keep buying and sharing their purchases on social media.”
Camban Studio – Fiona
Instagram - @cambanstudio
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I’m a textile practitioner based in the North East of Scotland. My main focus is printed textiles and print design and my work features the colours and textures I see around me in the natural environment of Scotland. I often use a blend of luxury textiles like cashmere and wools, against lighter silks, sheer fabrics, velvets, and heritage tweeds.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“As a group of four makers we all felt a bit at a loss of what to do after some events we were already planning as a group had to be postponed. When Rachel spoke of the work @FreyaIM had done with her makers raffle in Glasgow and suggested we could organise one as a team we were all immediately on board and excited by the idea.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Taking each day as it comes! There’s been definite up and downs but paying attention to my energy levels, moods and going with the flow of those phases has probably helped. And that’s gone with everyone in our household – if the kids need hugs we have hugs, if they want a quieter day, they watch some tv and we don’t force schoolwork. It’s definitely created a change of pace and thoughts about how things might be different working after this period.
Working on the raffle has been a major boost to my feelings of wellbeing. Working collaboratively in our wee team has been really important. My other job is pretty solitary, so constant chatting about the raffle via messaging and keeping in touch over ‘planning’ zoom meetings has kept me feeling connected to other people. The response from the making community of Aberdeen was so amazing, it’s really made me feel so proud to be part of it and seeing the donation total creeping up is exciting too. It’s so great to be able to help such a worthwhile cause in this way through our making, as sometimes selling cushions can feel a bit frivolous!”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“These awesome women – Mhairi, Rachel and Helen. I think we’ve been in contact pretty much every single day since lockdown started. Whatever each of us are going through on any particular day, there’s always someone offering support, feeling equally bad, or sharing a bit of laughter! Also they are all just amazing, talented, empowered, intelligent and inspiring lady bosses owning their own destinies and choices and I love that about our wee team!”
Jude Gove
Instagram - @judegove
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Working from my home studio, I create individually designed and hand-crafted genuine leather and pure wool felt accessories. Each purse, clutch bag and wallet is cut and stitched by hand, with an emphasis on simple practical shapes, beautiful colour combinations and high-quality materials.
My aim is to create simple and functional yet beautiful products, which will last a lifetime.
Using the landscape from both home and my travels as my colour palette, I source genuine soft leather hides and pure wool felt in contrasting colours. I work entirely by hand from making patterns, to cutting the leather and stitching each piece together.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“I said yes to taking part in the Indie Raffle because it’s nice to feel like I’m doing something to help, however small that might be. I feel very very lucky to live in a home, where I feel safe and free to live my own life. I can’t begin to imagine how it must feel to not be so lucky, so donating a prize was the least I could do.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Being in the countryside, long walks with my dog and excessive baking is getting me through lockdown! Also chatting with friends more as we’re all less busy is really lovely – hopefully this is something we’ll all make more time for once lockdown ends.”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“Again, I feel super lucky to have an amazing group of friends and a close family to lean on when I need them! I have friends from school, art school, old jobs, travelling - they’re all special to me for different reasons and I’m pretty sure I could rely on each and every one of them if I was in need of support….that’s something I’ll never take for granted!”
Hayley Fraser Photography
Instagram - @hayleyfraserphotography
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“Hello, I am Hayley and run a newborn and family photography studio in Ellon Aberdeenshire and also form a wedding photography duo with my husband Craig. My studio work is all about minimalistic timeless images and capturing natural reactions and moments. I have come to learn that good light and focusing on honest and real human interactions is what really makes an amazing photo in my eyes and I absolutely love my job. With my newborn work I really focus on capturing the baby as they are and all their tiny and unique details. Pregnancy and birth fascinate me. I have 2 kids and I know all too well how quick they grow up, it is so important to capture them. They don't stay tiny for long.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“Domestic abuse is on the rise and being someone who has known others to go through this it was really important for me to support in any way that I can. I can't imagine how difficult it must be for anyone going through this in the current situations we are faced with.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Zoom catch ups, virtual quizzes gin, prosecco and yoga :) I have also taken up face yoga to try and sort out my wrinkles!”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“My husband, he is my business partner, best friend, father of my kids and my rock. He believed in me from the very start. We built our business together and it would not be a success without his support.”
Claremont Studio - Tracey Johnston
Instagram - @claremontstudio
1. Can you sum up a bit about you and your work?
“I am a visual artist, illustrator and maker working from my home studio in Aberdeen. I am also a tutor and mentor and I showcase my design work through my brand name Claremont Studio where I bring my collection of folk style illustrations, prints, stationery, printed textiles and Scented Candle Apothecary to selected contemporary design markets, pop-up events and independent retailers. Recently I have expanded my wellbeing offering to focus on gifts to make us feel better – relaxing essential oil soy wax melt kits, tealights, lavender dream pillows, sleep kits, to gift to ourselves or the one’s we love who might need a little extra tender loving care.”
2. Why did you say yes to being part of Indie Relief Raffle for Grampian Women’s Aid?
“I said yes without a moment’s hesitation. Due to the covid-19 pandemic we are all staying home but what if your home is not your safe place and by staying home you are under an increased threat of violence and emotional and physical abuse? By shielding others to save lives, your own life is under threat by staying home. Grampian Women’s Aid is a vital lifeline to give confidential support and help – I am proud to be raising awareness and funds for this service through the Indie Relief Raffle.”
3. What is getting you through lockdown?
“Kindness, Adaptability, Curiosity and Helping Others!
Be kind to yourself and take each day as it comes! Be adaptable and think outside the box. Be curious – I’m busy developing new products, illustrations and wellbeing gifts for Claremont Studio. Although the retail spaces I sell through have closed and my workshops have been postponed due to Covid-19, I have seen an increase in sales from my online shops and I’m pleased that the things I make are bringing happiness and calm to people.
Helping Others - I’ve shared free Craft Tutorials on my Instagram highlights aimed at families and suitable for all ages using materials we all have at home and I have illustrated a series of free colouring pages of rainbows and butterflies to download from my Facebook Page to help be in the moment and free the mind from worrying!
Laughing – I am also home schooling my young daughter and while this is a challenge for both of us we are loving the extra time together. We’ve shared lots of funny moments that I will treasure and having a good old laugh really does make you feel good!
Free Craft Tutorials on Instagram Highlights @claremontstudio Free Colouring Pages on Facebook @claremontstudio Shop with me at www.claremontstudio.com”
4. Who empowers you when you need support?
“I am hugely thankful for the non-wavering love and support I have from family and close friends – they pick me up when I’m feeling down and love me no matter what and are always there to listen to my ramblings and to say – everything’s going to be all right. My wider creative family of artists and makers are also a huge support and I feel very lucky.”
Paper Houses Design - Mhairi
Why am I taking part in the Indie Relief Raffle? Because I felt useless and angry. I knew that focus would be taken away from supporting causes like Grampian Women’s Aid because there is a massive strain on the NHS due to years of underfunding and the public are having to support it. I wanted to help but I didn’t know what to do. That’s why having a bloody brilliant group of friends (Helen, Fiona and Rachel) to come along and say right we are doing something!
I’m donating one of our most popular products, the Signals extra plump cushion. The winner can pick what colourway and it comes with a sustainably sourced British wool insert (or if you’d prefer a fibre insert just say). Pop over to our shop page to see our prize contribution.
Thank you
To everyone who was able to share their answers with me and everyone taking part. This is just a taster of the wonderful contributors for our Indie Relief Raffle. You can see they are an interesting, caring and marvellous bunch! To see them all and find out a bit more check out our Just Giving page here
