See you on the other side

I'm not a huge fan of New Years eve. Everyone wants you to drink more, stay up later, party harder and have much more fun than you might on any other given night. I can't handle the pressure. Then I get annoyed that everyone sleeps in on New Years day – hello, it's the start of a whole new year, don't you want to get started?! I love New Years day, love love love it. It's when I coordinate all my 2014 planners (because I have a yearly wall calendar, a month-by-month wall calendar, my pocket diary and my day-to-day list of things to do) and get up early and shout loudly and PLAN!!! Which people with appalling hangovers don't tend to be very interested in, weirdly enough. It's the day of the year when all I want to do is go aggressively shopping for all those little useful things I always forget about and think I really need (2014: salad spinner, wooden spoons, copious amounts of plastic containers and things that probably don't even exist, like drawer dividers, to name but a few). They should call it Planning Day.

I'm really never sorry to see a year go, I'm far too interested in what's coming next to spend my last day of any given year just hanging out – I need to plan for Planning Day. And so I'd like to share that energy with those of you in particular who have had a really crappy year. In the last couple of months, many of my nearest and dearest have been experiencing some real difficulties. I hope that 2014 is kinder to you all.

To be honest, I am happy to see 2013 go. For me, while this year has been incredibly exciting and busy, it has also been quite trying. I am very much looking forward to 2014, in which the tune of life will definitely change (whether that means it will be any less busy or exciting, only time can tell). To all of you who share my sentiment (it's ok, you can tell 2013 to fuck right off if you like), I send out the warmest of wishes to you for the coming year, and hope that 2014 is kind, healing, exciting and whatever else it needs to be for you.

I can't wait to share my upcoming projects for next year with you all! To get you started, I hope to see some of your lovely faces at the launch of BONUS CARD's debut show, Loom of the Land, at Craft on 16 January. Thank you all for your amazing and ongoing support, happiest of New Years, whatever form that may be for you (anyone want to borrow my label machine?).

xx
L.

Festive detail of Totem by BONUS CARD – see you at craft next year for more flirty sculptural works! 

The Yearly Wrap-up

Generally, we are very good at being very busy. I feel that we often keep this busyness as a safety guard – god forbid someone finds out we've been relaxing, unemployed, not particularly stressed or just taking things slowly. I know I am guilty of this very-busy-very-important mentality almost permanently. This year, when people gasp 'Oh you HAVE been busy!' I have tried to respond with 'Yes I have, but everyone is busy' – because everyone really is. It doesn't really matter what you're doing, but time is full of these luscious spaces in which to fill with all sorts of things. For example, in the last few months, I have been busy doing many things, some of which involve nanna naps, watching Parks and Recreation, drinking coffee (I think most locals in my town think that all I do is swan about main street, cafe-hopping – they're not entirely wrong), doing my laundry, sitting quietly. It has felt like a big year though. I've also had my first book as Editor go to print, become a fully qualified Yoga instructor, launched my first range of jewellery and had Japanese school girls lose their shit over my spotty cats. It was a hectic year balancing shows, other work and study, and I am so grateful for your support. My Annual Studio Sale was great success, with this year's proceeds going to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre Christmas Appeal – many humble thanks to those who were able to contribute, we were able to raise a fat $1000, which will help to contribute to the cost of moving the ASRC to a much needed bigger space in 2014. And before I nick off for my highly anticipated Summer break next month, I'd like to introduce a new project on the horizon, in collaboration with none other than Kent Wilson. Our new venture BONUS CARD will launch its first show, Loom of the Land. On behalf of BONUS CARD I warmly invite you all to join us in the New Year to celebrate the opening at Craft. We are fortunate enough to have the gorgeous Anton Hasell (Artist and Director of Australian Bell) opening the exhibition, as well as new exhibits by Troy Emery and John Brooks also showing. The show runs from January 17 – February 15, with the opening night Thursday January 16 from 6-8pm. Kent and I are looking forward to sharing the madness with you. More info can be found on the Craft website. In the meantime, wishing all you gorgeous people a happy and safe Christmas and New Year period. Thank you as always for supporting these creative endeavours, it would not be possible without you. See you on the other side! xx Lucy

studio sale ends THIS FRIDAY!

Less than a week left of the studio sale! As everyone is winding down (or up) for the holiday season, this is when I start to get really feisty in the studio. Projects are bubbling away, and I am running out of space! So, to celebrate the last week of the sale (and many people's working week – yay!), all shipping within Australia*** is now FREE! Please note that international folks will still need to contact me in order to get work overseas – sorry guys.

In my last-week-madness, I have also added a few sneaky mystery discounts here and there on some of the works, so check it out! OH MY GOD!

10% of sales will still head on over to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre for their Christmas Appeal, and delivery will be ASAP - please note that at this time of year, Australia Post is under a lot of pressure, and often there can be delays. For local deliveries/pick up, I will aim to accommodate you as best I can. If you have any concerns about getting goods by Christmas, PLEASE contact me ASAP and I will do my best to help you out.

Thanks again to all for your juicy love and support - nothing like going local and lovely for Christmas this year I say.

xx
L.

*** Please note that some work is LOCAL delivery only. If you are interstate and want to get any of these works, please get in touch and we will work something out!

tomorrow tomorrow!

Lazy me for not writing my own post - but here is a little reminder from the Crafts that be - opening event is tomorrow people! See you there for some lovely good times.

xox
L.

SUPERMARKET - Opening Event Tomorrow! Join Craft for our fun Supermarket day, 1 to 4pm TOMORROW Saturday 14 December 2013. Free wine, fairy floss, gift wrapping and 20% discount for all craft members on all store purchases. Craft 31 Flinders Lane Melbourne Exhibition duration 6 – 24 December 2013 Open 7 days a week, Saturday – Wednesday 10am – 5pm, Thursday – Friday 10am – 6pm Exploring the phenomenon of markets and production ware, Supermarket transforms the gallery into a marketplace of limited edition works exclusive to Craft from a select group of Melbourne makers. Curator Debbie Pryor has brought together a group of outstanding makers who have produced unique multiples that will provide the perfect, affordable and distinctive gift this Christmas. Featuring new works by Kirsten Perry, Anna Davern + Lucy James, Emily Green Arts Project Australia, Home Work (Lara Davies and Jess Wright) and introducing an exciting new relationship with Melbourne icons Alpha 60. Read more NEW 7-DAY TRADING HOURS During December 2013 Craft is open 7-days a week.  10am to 5pm Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 6pm Thursday and Friday 31 Flinders Lane Melbourne VIC 3000 03 9650 7775

BAH! ONLY A WEEK AND A LITTLE BIT TO GO!

The Positive Approach, 35 x 50 cm, unframed, collage on paper, $380

Perhaps my enthusiasm is out of place, but while the studio sale is indeed not ending until December 20, those of you who want artwork under your Christmas tree this year, please place orders by THIS SUNDAY (Dec 15) to ensure they arrive in time! Those who want art for art and not for Christmas, then you have all the time in the world ... that is, until December 20. Click here to see available goodies.

Local buyers (in Metro Melbourne and Northern Vic), please get in touch re delivery. Any other queries or concerns, just give me a shout.

We are just over the $800 mark in terms of donations to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre Christmas Appeal, and it would be super ace if we could push it to a neat thousand! Big juicy thanks to those who have given their support - I am stoked with what you've helped to achieve so far.

xox
L.

Supermarket now open!

It's finally here! Superpeople Debbie and Andrei from Craft have worked tirelessly to get the stalls set up for Supermarket, and I must say it is looking spiffilicious – don't forget that the official launch is on Saturday 14 December from 1–4, involving FREE BOOZE AND FAIRY FLOSS! Anna and myself will be swanning about, ready to help you with your self-gemming needs. However - we have done a very (very) small run of each style (Anna, did you make any extra for me?!), so if you want to secure your goodies, I recommend getting in there quick!

xx
L.

Summer of love

chariot, watercolour and collage on paper, 2013, 30 x 30 cm, $280

Happy Summer to all! Finally, the sunshine has arrived, and with it a barrage of preparation for two upcoming shows. Supermarket opens THIS WEEK (get there Friday morning to have first pick of the bunch) and my upcoming collaboration with my ever-delicious partner-in-everything Kent Wilson, will be emerging over the next couple of months (more details to come). 

In the meantime, the studio sale is in full swing (click here for some of that action), but never fear, there are still plenty of goodies available! 10% of sales will be heading to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre Christmas Appeal. 

Hope to see you all next week at the launch of Supermarket – 1–4 Saturday 14 Dec. Why shop at Myer when there are so many clever cookies making beautiful things in Melbourne already?

xx

L.

limited edition prints for Supermarket

Sick of Jewels yet? I thought I would be, but it turns out I'm NOT! Hurraaaaah!!! In case you didn't know, Anna and I have organised a beautiful set of limited edition prints to celebrate the launch of our jewellery line. There are only 10 of each print available, EVER, so make sure you get in quick to get one of these bad boys.

I know I probably should have held these in for a little longer, you know to get the surprise factor going. But I simply couldn't hold it in anymore. These guys are printed with archival pigment inks on Hahnemuhl Photo Rag (fance-eh!) – they happen to look pretty delicious as a pair. Just saying.

Don't forget, while the launch of Supermarket is on December 14, the exhibition is open to the public from December 6, which is NEXT WEEK!! (Holy shit, I better get a move on ... )

Summer IS coming. Happy Tuesday all!

xx
L.

motherland studio sale

motherland, collage and watercolour on paper 2013, 285 x 390 mm, unframed, $340.00

It feels like a we've had a super slow start to Spring, and with Summer starting THIS SUNDAY, I am feeling super behind with life. I haven't even begun to think about Christmas yet, but for those of you who are a little more on the ball, YES! The studio sale is still kicking along! Through this year's studio sale, so far we've raised over $800 for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre Christmas Appeal, which is fantastic – thank you so much for the support.

The sale is on until 20 December, though I urge those wishing to order works for Christmas gifts to get yourselves sorted by 15 December, to allow time for delivery/or pick up.

Any questions, feel free to shoot me an email, especially interstate friends who might be interested in larger works. We can ALWAYS sort something out. There are still a stack of beauties available, so get on it!

xx
L.

Anna Davern + Lucy James hit the news!

Anna and I were thrilled to be included in a little piece last Friday featured in The Age, promoting our collection and the exhibition which opens in less than a fortnight! Eeeeeek!

Other exhibitors include Kirsten Perry, Emily Green, Lara Davies and Jess Wright (of Harvest Workroom), Arts Project Australia and Alpha 60.

See ya there!

xx
L.

You're invited to Supermarket – no toilet paper or cat food in sight!

Hi all! Please see below for the official invite to Supermarket. Yes, you did read correctly – FREE WINE! FREE FAIRYFLOSS! OTHER GREAT STUFF! Anna and I will be there swanning around - me with my fairy floss, and her with a glass of wine in each hand to make up for it. Can't wait to see you all there. xx L. INVITATION - SUPERMARKET Free wine, fairy floss, gift wrapping and 20% discount for all members on all store purchases. Join Craft for our fun Supermarket day on Saturday 14 December 1 – 4pm Craft 31 Flinders Lane Melbourne Exhibition duration 6 – 24 December 2013 Open 7 days a week, Saturday – Wednesday 10am – 5pm, Thursday – Friday 10am – 6pm Exploring the phenomenon of markets and production ware, Supermarket transforms the gallery into a marketplace of limited edition works exclusive to Craft from a select group of Melbourne makers. Curator Debbie Pryor has brought together a group of outstanding makers who have produced unique multiples that will provide the perfect, affordable and distinctive gift this Christmas. Featuring new works by Kirsten Perry, Anna Davern + Lucy James, Emily Green Arts Project Australia, Home Work (Lara Davies and Jess Wright) and introducing an exciting new relationship with Melbourne icons Alpha 60. For more information please visit craft.org.au NEW 7-DAY TRADING HOURS December 2013 Craft is open 7-days a week.  10am to 5pm Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 6pm Thursday and Friday 31 Flinders Lane Melbourne VIC 3000 03 9650 7775

we are the night

we are the night, detail, 2013, $400.00 plus delivery, or free pick up (say whaaaaaat?!). 

It's been a great kick off to the annual (Yes! I have JUST decided that this is to be annual! Yippee!) studio sale – thank you to all for your ongoing support. There is still works available, and a little reminder that if you are based in Melbourne or the Macedon Ranges, larger works can be picked up or delivered to your door. Shazam! Have no idea what I'm talking about? Well geez! The online shop can be visited by clicking right here.

All work is currently unframed, however feel free to get in touch should you wish to arrange this.

Any other questions, give me a shout!

Love Lucy
xx

Studio Sale now live until December 20!

The time has come to blow out some cobwebs and make space for new ones. If there are some works that have not been included, that get you all hot and bothered under the collar, please contact me. My studio is based in Kyneton, Victoria, and I am always happy to arrange a studio visit. Have we discussed doing a trade? Contact me about that too. The sale will be live until Dec 20. Click HERE to go to the online shop

There is a lot of nasty shit going on in the world, and it's hard to know where to start. 10% of all sales will be donated to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre's Christmas Appeal. We've got a lot of space in this country, yet seem adamant to hoard it. ASRC need to raise $1 million by Christmas in order to continue the amazing work they do for Asylum Seekers coming to Australia. Your contribution will be greatly appreciated.

100% of the sales of the two works I created for Key of Sea Journal (who are instrumental in supporting this cause) will also be donated. 

I consider myself incredibly privileged to live in this country and to be able to create the work that I present to you. Thank you for not only supporting my own practice, but supporting the others who are maybe not so fortunate as me. 

Love,

Lucy

Studio sale – Coming soon!

It's that time of year again (November?), and yet again I have accumulated TOO MUCH STUFF! It is time to cleanse, in order to create a whole new batch of too much stuff.

Therefore, I am organising a little studio sale, which will be live online by the end of the month! Yippee!

Unframed works on paper for all, divine as Christmas gifts or self-treats. Watch this space – details to come!

In the meantime, enjoy the sunshine.

xox
L.

anna davern + lucy james

It's coming! The Anna Davern + Lucy James 2013 collaboration is almost complete. This limited edition range of Jewellery will be available at Craft's inaugural 'Supermarket' exhibition this December. More details to come ...

Asia-wide fame for Marcel!

I finally got my hands on a copy of Cat People magazine and it is stunning! I recommend you get yourself a copy if you haven't already. You can buy them online here, and brothers and sisters in Asia, I believe they are heading to bookstores around Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and MORE. Europe, I believe you're next.

Artwork originally shown as part of the collaboration with fellow crazy cat lady Tai Snaith - 'Why I Eyes Ya', 2012

I am obviously very excited to have my work shown in this beautiful publication, but I have to say, the real pride is seeing my little friend Marcel featured in the contributors page – it's true. I have incurable cat love. Well done to Jessica and Gavin for putting together such a beautiful publication, as well as all the other contributors involved. I look forward to seeing the next one!



For those of you who are keen to get your hands on some original cat-art material, head over to my website where you can buy kitties online at the click of your finger. It's THAT easy. Don't forget I have free shipping to Japanese friends for the month of October. Any queries about shipping, please drop me a line.

L.
xx

The Key of Sea Journal has arrived!

After many months of planning and hard work, the Key of Sea Journal has arrived! This beautiful project showcases artwork, writing and musings from the creative people of Australia, many of which are asylum seekers or refugees. Massive props to the KOS Journal team who worked tirelessly to gather stories and artworks from those who have been living and working in Australia for many moons, as well as those people who have newly arrived in Australia, and have had first hand experience of our refugee policy, detention centres and persecution in the country of their origin. 

untitled work by lucy james for the Key of Sea Journal

Those wanting to grab a copy can head to the Key of Sea Journal page, or get in touch with Romani with the details below.

Romani Benjamin
romani.benjamin@gmail.com
cheques/money orders need to be made out to The Human Rights Arts and Film Festival Inc
$25 KOS Journal
$35 KOS Vol 2 CD plus Journal
$5 postage

Proceeds of the sale of the Journal will be distributed among the Asylum Seekers Resource Centre, the Human Rights Arts and Film Festival and the Sudanese Australia Integrated Learning Program. 

More information can be found here. This collaboration has been a sobering reminder that we all have a fundamental right to have a roof over our heads, food in our bellies and to feel safe in our homes. I hope that as we make these small steps, more Australians will begin to understand that we have more than enough to go around, and that seeking asylum is not a crime. 

Big thank you to the Key of Sea gang for having me involved, and for Rachel in particular, who linked me with Raj, a Tamil detainee who wrote one of the poems featured in the journal, to which I responded with an accompanying artwork. Raj's poem was written for his roommate at Christmas Island, to give him hope. His positivity is infectious.


Happy Monday to you all – aren't we just so lucky? 

xox

Sick cats

With the arrival of spring, the arrival of sick people has come along for the ride. Kyneton is rainier and windier than ever, with branches being blown off trees and bins being knocked over. I'm sitting at my computer wearing my gloves for goodness sake! Many of my friends are suffering a variety of illnesses and maladies, and I am sending out 'sick cat' remedies faster than I can stick spots on them!

So I thought I'd send some general healing vibes through the internet – drink tea, be warm, and rest when you need to – just like this little dude and it will soon pass.

Be well!

xox
L.

Japan studio sale!

Hello Friends!

To celebrate the launch of Cat People Magazine, which was launched this weekend at the Tokyo Art Book Fair, I am having a studio sale on all my cat works! Whaaaaat?! FREE shipping on all orders to Japan until October 31!

Other international orders, please drop me a line to suss out shipping costs, and local friends can enjoy free shipping all the time! Hooray! Any questions, or if you would like assistance placing your order, please just shoot me an email. All payments are made safely and securely with PayPal. There are plenty of works available, so happy perusing to you all. Click here to see the goods!

Xx
L.

cat people magazine.

Yes. It's a thing. It has images of my cat-art in it. And it's coming to a Tokyo near you. Obviously.

Image courtesy Cat People Magazine

Cat People Magazine is launching this month at the Tokyo Art Book Fair 2013 – but never fear, other cat lovers and freaks around the globe! There is enough pussy to go around,* and can be sent discretely** right to your door. Cat People Magazine, Issue 1, is available for online pre-order here.

Image courtesy Cat People Magazine

You can see delightful video previews of the publication here.

Happy Thursday everyone!

xx
L.


*There is 1000 to go around. Get in quick - you know what Japanese schoolgirls are like. They come in droves and they all want kittens.
**I cannot guarantee that it will be discrete in any way.

the ones that got away

In the development for You Are The Gardens, I created many many works, that didn't make it into the show, for some reason or another. However, they all speak their own special language, so I thought I'd begin to share them!

Happy Tuesday all! I recommend getting at least one victory leap in before lunch.

xx
L.

Images from You Are The Gardens now online

Hello all! Alas, the show finished yesterday, however the sun came out for a moment today, so I grabbed the opportunity to photograph the work from You Are The Gardens. FINALLY! Thank you to all for your patience with getting these online. Work can be viewed here.

cotton head – collage and watercolour on paper

If you have any inquiries regarding any of the pieces, please do not hesitate to drop me a line via the website.

Happy Monday to you all!

xxx
L.

the dark parade of spring

new work – the dark parade of spring – collage and watercolour on paper, 2013

I have been in sunny, breezy and balmy Hobart (Hobart? Balmy? YES!) for the past few days, rejuvenating (sleeping in) and indulging (mostly eating donuts and cheese). After what has been a hectic few months, and what will be another hectic few months to come, it has been divine to slow down.

Apologies for those of you still waiting on images from You Are The Gardens, I promise, they are on the way. The show ends THIS SUNDAY, so if you are in Kyneton, please pop into Stockroom to have a look! Now that I have refreshed my soul with copious amounts of chocolate and hot chips, it's time to head back to Melbourne and get to work (and reintroduce my stomach to broccoli). There are a couple of projects underway for the rest of the year, and exciting things on the horizon for 2014 (where the hell did this year go!?) – stay tuned!

In the meantime, I recommend those of you who can, get ye-selves into some sunshine – it is delicious!

xx
L.

Artist talk this Sunday at 2pm

 

Hello All!

A quick note to warmly invite you to a floor talk I will be partaking in this Sunday in response to my current show, You Are The Gardens. I will be talking with fellow exhibiting artist Larry Parkinson. These talks are lovely, informal chats, where the audience is encouraged to take part, ask questions and throw comments around.

The talk will kick off at 2pm at Stockroom - 98 Piper St, Kyneton. Word on the street is that there will be champagne for all. Come on over, and I will share with you my secrets.

Love Lucy

xxx

Men With Glasses - the fun never ends!

Ok I promise this will be the last Men With Glasses post I do ...

I lie. I bet there will be HUNDREDS MORE! I can't help it! It's just the beginning! This post is just a little wrap up and show of the gorgeous images photographer John Brash took of the show. When I get his details I will post them for those interested in someone who can take great photos in the world's most difficult to capture space.

What a wonderful experience this was, and the fact that my men are now safely tucked into a single A4 folder makes it the most blissful storage for a large scale art work anyone could dream of. Hats off to super-Kent, who helped me install and deinstall in record time!

Until next time!

xx
L

Foreground shows work by Low Phat WytchKraft (sisters Jessie and Kate Tucker)