Archive for the ‘Artist’ Category

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Generation Next: Winner announced!

Sunday, September 5th, 2010

A month ago we introduced you to a new designer competition and two weeks ago we announced which three finalists were going to battle it out on the runway to win the title of Generation Next. Well, on Thursday each of the finalists Lede, Madame Wolf , and Sofia Clothing showed their collection to a fashion savvy audience and to a panel of esteemed judges.

I was actually at the event and let me tell you, being in the presence of some very talented designers was an amazing experience especially when the show you’re watching features designs that you’d wear day in and day out. Each collection was amazing and encompassed different areas of innovation but in the end, only one designer could take the title of Generation Next and that designer is..

Sofia Clothing

With designs that are intended to make any woman feel beautiful from the outside in, Sofia Clothing understands that clothes should not be worn to create a woman’s beauty but to add to it. “Sofia is created with this story in mind. The pieces are vibrant, feminine and don’t over shadow the woman wearing them; perfect for a day about town or a night of wine and laughter.”

Congratulations to all of the finalists and especially to Sofia for winning this years title.

Posted in Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative | 1 Comment »

Vintage, say what?

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

First of all, thanks to those who came out to the market on Sunday to show your support to our monthly market. It was so great seeing some familiar faces and meeting new ones who will hopefully be back for some more fashionable fun! That`s what this market is about, celebrating fashion in the heart of a growing community, right?

Something that I`ve always loved are vintage finds. They’re one-of-a-kind and add a bit of flare to every outfit, not to mention the fun that goes into the journey of finding it. But when you aren’t able to raid the vintage stores around the neighborhood, it’s always so refreshing to see that so many designers are putting a vintage edge on their pieces whether it may be creating an overall vintage aesthetic or finding vintage gems and making it new again. It saves us the work doesn’t it?

I’m excited to introduce or re-introduce you to two designers who will be at our September market who really take pride in making their items, vintage inspired. These two designers have grown to be some of my favorites: Vintage Creations and BuenoStyle.

The great thing about Portobello West is that it gives the community a chance to get to know great designers and it wasn’t until I found out about PW that I began to look into Vintage Creations. Vintage Creations offers recycled cashmere and other luxurious creations that was founded in 1998 by Beth Nielsen. Although Vintage Creations is based in Seattle, Nielsen’s line is offered in several boutiques across the US and Canada. Probably one of the things I love about this line is that it’s so effortless to pull off. Her pieces are something that you can easily throw on and walk out the door wearing but still look amazing. FYI, her sweaters and wraps are perfect for the fall! :)

I fell in love with jewelry by BuenoStyle the first time I walked into Barefoot Contessa on Commercial Drive. My jaw drops whenever I look at the pieces online but in person, you can see the high level of craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Her pieces range from $12-$90 USD which is a steal for something that no one else has. I love how everything has an antique feel- it’s not old but at the same time isn’t new so I think that in itself is kind of appealing when it comes to jewelry. It adds substance, you  know? I know the market is a month away but definitely make this vendor a MUST see when the time comes :)

Remember, $15 membership cards are still being sold at our market! Many people have picked one up already so make sure to give it a second thought. It gets you free admission for a year as well as 10-20% discounts from several vendors!

Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall!

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

It’s kind of sad that summer is coming to an end, especially with the weather staying consistently beautiful and hot but we all know that come September, that’s going to change drastically. So with summer transitioning into fall, there are several changes that need to be made to every fashionista’s wardrobe aka my favorite time of the year! Say goodbye to your tank tops, beach bags, and bare arms and hello to t-shirts, messenger bags, and fancy pullovers. Sounds kind of complicated and time consuming doesn’t it? Lucky for you, Portobello West has you covered in all areas by making it easy, fun, and convenient for you to find all of your fall essentials in one fabulous place.

Tank tops were so last month so instead, pick up a t-shirt to start your fall right. Street wear enthusiast Tykkun combines elements of bold and simple aesthetics to give their designs spunk and comfort for a laid back, rainy, September day.

You’re not going to need your summer beach bag for another year, so why not trade it in for a stylish messenger bag by Anuk Harvey. These bags are designed with a vintage flare in mind and will make any dreary fall outfit, look put together and stylish all year round.

Kdon’s 100% recycled ECO friendly line offers some amazing knit pullovers that are ideal for those chilly summer nights and perfect for the upcoming and unpredictable  fall weather. So don’t miss out on the chance to stay fashionable and warm with designs from Kdon!

Don’t forget that it’s our 4th birthday so make sure to come early and stay awhile. Remember that Portobello West is offering membership cards to save our valuable customers money every month for just $15.00. These cards will get you free admission for a year and will get you discounts and perks from all of our fabulous designers. It’s an amazing deal, you don’t want to miss out! You’ll thank us come the Holidays, trust me :) .

Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

Get back to school ready with PW market finds by Herrohachi, Kukubee, and Sideline Designs!

Sunday, August 22nd, 2010

Our monthly markets are all about providing you with unique and affordable finds and what better way to stand out in school this fall than with one-of-a-kind, standout products made by some of our talented designers? The first day of school is always a fashion show of some kind so make sure you come to our anniversary market on the 29th of this month to find everything you’re looking for, for this up-coming school year!

Herrohachi has this neeenja canvas tote that is super cute for the fall and very practical for all of your school essentials like your pencil case, notebooks, cell phone, lunch money, and of course my ultimate essential: chapstick! If you’re like me and you don’t like carrying a backpack because it never matches your outfit, then you’re definitely in luck with this tote. Best part of all? It’s $35, yeap, you heard me. While all of your friends are walking around sporting a tna or lululemon bag, you’ll stand out because you’ll be toting around this one-of-a-kind canvas bag!

As I mentioned earlier, it’s more than likely that you’ll have a pencil case in your school bag so it’s best to have all of your writing utensils stored away so you won’t lose anything. Is it just me or are school supplies a lot expensive now?  Anyways, Kukubee makes a ton of these cute little zipper pouches that will fit all of your pens, pencils, and erasers! They come in an assortment of designs and colors, all handmade with love btw,  and are only $12 a piece. I’d get like 5 of them if I were you because you’re friends are going to try and steal yours and I don’t blame them one bit.  It’s an amazing find at at an amazing price, you can’t go wrong!

If you’re feeling kind of depressed that summer is almost over, don’t worry you can still wear your tank tops, dresses, and shorts for just a little while longer if you have something layer over. These scarves by Sideline Designs are wearable art that are made using the Nuno felting method with a silk scarf center to provide durability and strength. Long story short, you’ll be warm in one of these guys. You can put one in your book bag if the weather is looking a little questionable or you can pull one out if you’re getting chilly in a lecture! See, pretty AND accessible! For $35, what more can you ask for? :)

Back to school is a lot more fun if you get excited about all of the new things you can buy for yourself without feeling guilty. I mean come on, you need all of this stuff for school! It’s totally justifiable, wouldn’t you say? Back to school never looked THIS good!

Oh, and remember to mark the 29th off on your calendars this month because it’s our anniversary market! It won’t be a par-tay without you all!

xoxo

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Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »

Generation Next – Down to THREE

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

A couple of weeks ago we blogged about Generation Next, a new designer competition hosted by The Honey Mustard Fashion & Media Services, that some features some amazing, up-incoming talents. If you have no idea what I’m talking about click here to go back to our previous post to get updated on the must knows for this competition! Anywhoo,I have some developments that I’m excited to share: last week the contestants were narrowed down to just 3, to battle it out for the title of Generation Next.

And the finalists are…

Lede, Madame Wolf, and Sofia Clothing

These 3 finalists are extremely talented and all add a different component to the competition. Lede produces all of he clothes in Vancouver, combining both comfort and style. Who knew those two words could be used together in the same sentence because when I think comfort, i think uggs and sweat pants :) . Marla Lede, the mastermind behind these designs is able to infuse both elements that can any woman feel fashionably comfortable in her own skin. Alberta gal Jenna Etcheverry, the designer of Madame Wolf, takes a different approach combining elements of glam-rock, flirtatiousness, and modesty to her line. If you’re looking to turn a couple of heads, you’re in great company with Madame Wolf. Last but not least, Sofia Clothing, created by Mendez Scheone, celebrates femininity and confidence in her exquisite Fall2010 line. The perfect thing about her line you ask? Her pieces are versatile- you can dress up, dress down, and mix and match items for a night out or a night in with the gals. Talk about fun, right?

Well guess what, we’re cordially inviting you to this fantabulous event, get ready cause here’s your evite:

There’s only two weeks until this event so the designers must be on pins and needles (literally), getting all their stuff together to put on a mouth watering fashion show for all of us to see.

Tickets can be purchased at Portobello West’s Anniversary Market on August 29th. Remember, we’re turning 4, we’ve got awesome new membership cards to save YOU money, and we’ll be at the Rocky Mountaineer Station from 12-6. It’s rude to miss a birthday party ;) !

XOXO

Posted in Art, Artist, Calgary, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

A Sneak Peak at PW’s Jewelry Galore!

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

If you’ve been to one of our markets, you already know that the jewelry we have at PW is exquisite! The designers are so talented in finding what beads work with what and what color it looks best in. Those vendors are definitely the ones where I spend most of my time at. Just to get you all excited about our market on Sunday, I figured what better way to start the party than to bedazzle you with a blog featuring some one of a kind jewelry by some amazing designers!

ELIZABEADAN

Mother, daughter team Sharon and Sandra are taking Portobello West by storm with their handmade jewelry made in studio in Vancouver! Some of my favorite pieces by this power dual are their pearl necklaces! Seriously, what is more classic and beautiful than a woman in pearls- they’re totally timeless and definitely worth the buy! ELIZABEADAN is definitely a brand to look out for, so save yourself the trouble and jump aboard the train now because there’s no telling how far this mother daughter team will go! If you don’t believe me, check out their stuff on Sunday. You won’t be disappointed, make sure you report back to me! :)

Kilauea Dawn

Jessica Dawn, the creator of Kilauea Dawn, has been creating jewelry since 2007. With most of her jewelry inspired by the beaches found in Vancouver, Jessica uses a combination of pearls, crystals and shells from Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest, the Seychelles, and Tahiti in her jewelry. Her love of the beach and ocean definitely show in the aesthetic of her designs. I think what I love most is the color combination each piece has. You can totally tell that there is a thought process that goes into her creations because the materials used in one piece is so cohesive to the other. It’s absolutely fabulous! If you plan on taking a trip to I don’t know.. Antarctica or you’re thinking ahead to the winter when you know you’ll be missing the beach, definitely pick up one of these pieces. That way, the summer will be with you all year long no matter what season it is!

Izzy and Buds Jewelry Designs

Izzy and Buds Jewelry Designs by Jesee and Koko scream “Ooh La la”, which is what these two talented designers intended when they began creating their designs. Although Jesee is the artist behinds these wonderful pieces, it wasn’t without the help of her partner in crime and muse Koko that is making their jewelry journey a success!  Izzy and Buds Jewelry is designed in such a way where their jewelry pieces are versatile offering simple, classic and avant garde designs that reveal the goddess in every woman, at all times. These pieces speak for themselves- they’re absolutely stunning!

THIS SUNDAY is the big day! Come see us and all of our wonderful designers at the Rocky Mountaineer Station from 12-6pm. Remember, if it’s sunny we will be outside! Get excited! :)

See you then!

Posted in Accessories, Artist, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery | 2 Comments »

Cherry Blossom into Summer with Eco-Friendly Clothing!

Thursday, May 20th, 2010

About two months ago, I started using bamboo sheets. I think it was like 3 years ago when I was in a textiles class where my instructor was raving about the benefits of using this stuff. It’s a natural antibacterial fabric, meaning it blocks bacteria growth. That’s great and everything, but one of the main reasons why I use it is because I cover myself in layers and layers of blankets so most of the time, I wake up with cold sweats (mostly from nightmares LOL, I’m so not trying to gross you out, btw! haha). Anyways, I’m not here to rave about sheets, I’m here to rave about a brand that is both trendy and eco-friendly: Cherry Blossom.

Deanna Milligan, the mastermind behind Cherry Blossom, is what we call a mompreneur. Deanna is a self taught designer residing in Tsawwassen, BC  and is also an actress so it’s kind of obvious that she truly lives for the arts and for her two daughters!  All of her stuff is made from bamboo jersey and is manufactured in Vancouver. However, one of the coolest parts of her designs (other than being eco-friendly), is that all of the images she uses have been created off of her own computer first.

Deana describes the images on her clothing as tattoos and as a canvas for her artwork. She believes that one of the reasons why people have such a strong attraction to her clothing is because they feel like they’re wearing something that is authentic and soulful. Cherry Blossom has been featured in many fashion magazines and newspapers such as Fashion Magazine and Flare, so it’s definitely nice to know that Deanna’s talent has been noticed and recognized nationwide for what her brand represents.

Going back to what I was saying at the beginning of this post, now is definitely the PERFECT opportunity for you all to hop on the Cherry Blossom train and pick up one of her pieces since it’s about to get mighty hot outside. You’ll be keeping dry and fighting off sweat in the summer sun and will look trendy all in one! Talk about killing two birds with one stone, right?

Deanna and all of her eco-friendly goodness will be at Portobello West Market on May 30th from 12-6 at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. So definitely make her vendor one of your must see’s when you’re there, you won’t be disappointed!

:)

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aCageyBee, Artwork by KGB

Thursday, April 15th, 2010

One thing I love about the art world is its versatility; there’s the ability to keep a signature style, but also so much room for experimenting with new and exciting ideas. Kris G. Brownlee, the brains behind the quirky art label aCageyBee finds perfect harmony between art, pop culture, and fashion, while still maintaining her own identity throughout her designs. Fresh from a solo art gallery showing at Massey Theater on April 9th, Kris’ artwork is gaining recognition and praise for her unique style of drawing. To me, it’s almost as if she takes her inspiration and pulls out the dainty components, leaving harsh lines with captivating eyes and solemn faces. The artwork of aCageyBee is sultry, but elegant, which is a perfect combination.

Kris is influenced not only by the “CageyBee” character (which I love) but there’s references to popular movies, celebrities and children’s books as well. The greatest thing about Kris is that she doesn’t leave her buyers with just simple prints. She has taken her favourite and most popular artwork and made them into resin-filled pendents, book covers, and postcards. Even her multiple prints can be found in all different sizes. This lady is definitely not generic! My absolute favourite is the Audrey Hepburn and I adore all of her Alice in Wonderland designs.

aCageyBee artwork is amazing and affordable – prices range from $6 to $45 for the reproduced prints, jewelry, and postcards, and the original paintings range from $48 – $400. Find out more about Kris Brownlee at her website, and you can purchase her designs online from her Etsy shop. Don’t forget that she’ll also be at our Portobello West Market in Vancouver on April 25th. Hope to see you all there!

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Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Designer, Fashionista, Jewellery | 3 Comments »

Ola Designs

Monday, April 5th, 2010

I always loved how watercolours moved on a pallet; the way such vivid colours could always become so soft. So it’s no wonder the paintings of Ola Design caught my attention.

Olga Cuttell first moved to Canada three and a half years ago. During that time, she couldn’t work due to problems with her immigration papers. Being home all day made her very bored. So she took up painting on ceramics for a hobby. Well today, she paints for companies and has an online shop.

Olga’s paintings is like a playful elegance of colours with a touch of new urban. She definitely paints for the people of today and isn’t one of those artists who stick to out-dated painting styles.

Check out her paintings at her website.

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Yapes Paints Part 2 – Interview with April Lacheur

Monday, March 22nd, 2010

Here is a continuation from last week’s post. We’re going to go in depth with April Lacheur and find out the person behind the art.

How did you develop your art style? Or rather, how do nature and your surroundings inspire you?
I often get comments that my art style is both unique and recognizable. I am quite thankful for this because essentially I am just painting what and how I like. I am passionate about my work and I think this shows in my pieces. I have been painting since i was a kid and my style is one that has developed naturally. I am a lover of the outdoors, especially trees! as you might be able to tell from my work (lol). I get called the Tree Girl a lot!  My partner Renato and I get outside as much as we can and living on Vancouver Island has really given us tons of opportunities to explore beautiful places! We have also lived in Asia, Australia and New Zealand which has also inspired my work.  
 
What was your first ‘real’ painting, and why did you paint it?
Hmm.. That’s a tough question. I have done paintings as gifts for family and friends for as long as I can remember. Being able to give gifts that are handmade has always been something I love to do! Some of my friends have some pretty old paintings from me that are pretty funny actually…. and they STILL display them on their walls.. so sweet:>  
 
When did you know that your paintings were more than just a hobby?
In 2007 I was offered the opportunity to display my work at a restaurant called ‘Blighty’s Bistro’ in Victoria. I was super nervous to show my work in public but I was pleasantly surprised by the out come! Over the 6 months I had my work there I sold 12 paintings… I thought to myself…. hmm.. perhaps i am on to something!?  
 
What painting and when was your first big break? 
The painting that was the first to draw the most attention is one titled ’Life Roots’ It’s a large 2.5×4ft painting of a tree with a yellow background and lots of intricate roots and branches. There is tons of meaning in this piece and it seems to strike a lot of people. I painted it in 2007 and to this day it is still one that I sell the most prints and cards of.. its my signature piece :>

Life Roots

Would you ever leave nursing to become a full time artist?
When i first started my business ‘Yapes Paints’ in 2008 I was working full time as an RN in post open heart surgery. It was a stressful job and painting was a nice balance for me.  I decided to get out of working in the hospital and work in the community which gave me a chance to work more closely with individual clients and their families as opposed to machines. My art started to take off and I was able to start working casually. I have been working a few days a week as an RN in the community in Courtenay mostly looking after palliative clients dying at home. Yes, this work can be sad but also incredibly rewarding and inspiring. I have learned to value my life and value the time I get to spend painting.. it is truly a gift! Of course my dream is to be able to make a good living as an artist, but I think I would like to continue nursing even just a few times a month. Working with clients at vulnerable times in their lives is where some of my inspiration comes from so they really go hand in hand.  
 
What’s in store for the future?
Oh if we only had a crystal ball! lol. I’m planning to continue to develop my business and focus more on the Vancouver market! There are a lot of opportunities here and lots of people who really appreciate art and hand made things! I’m also planning to take my work outside of BC. There are a lot of great shows in places like Calgary and Toronto that would open up a whole new audience for me.  
 
Would like to our readers to know anything else about you? (ie. future showings, appearances, general information about yourself ect.)
I often get asked “where did you get the name Yapes Paints?”. Well.. Yapes is my nickname.. started as Ape, to Apes then to Yapes.. its the name lots of my friends and family call me… and what does Yapes do?.. well she paints!.. its a statement.. Yapes Paints!.. it was sort of a surprise to people at first since I am a nurse and not an art school grad… Yapes Paints is a simple way to say what I love to do.. lol! 
 
I will be at the Portobello West Season Opener March 27 and 28 with original paintings, prints, cards, painted purses and my new hand painted journals!! I’m really looking forward to it.. it’s always a ton of fun and lots great people.. oh and I always want to buy everything i see.. so many talented people in Vancouver!.. it’s so great to be a part of it all!

New Hand Painted Journals

So that’s the end of the interview with April Lacheur. You can see more of her art at her website Yapespaints or as she said, at the Portobello West market this Saturday and Sunday.

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