Caitlin Harris Moore is the owner of Shepard’s Flock Farm, a woman-owned and operated Elgin-based permaculture farm specializing in Texas native habitats and the cultivation of seasonal produce. Caitlin teaches classes in her apothecary on the farm.

1. Why did you move to Elgin? 

I grew up in a small town near Houston and went to Austin for college (Hilltopper pride). After college, I met my husband and we started our family. I really missed the comfort and speed of small-town life. We weren’t cut out for Austin. So we headed East – in search of bigger sky and fertile soil. Best choice we ever made – I love our community!

2. What compels you to spend time creating?

I’m very stubborn and particular. Once I have an idea in mind, there’s no letting it go. I like to get my hands into new projects. I pride myself on bringing things to fruition – with as little help as possible. I want to live a small life full of handmade things with worn-down edges and coffee stains. 

3. Tell me three things you’ve learned in the past five years.

1. The Pythagorean Theorem (for greenhouse building) – I guess I learned it back in high school but those brain cells have come and gone.

2. I’m never going to go through that random bag of stuff I just shoved into the closet – it’s ok to donate it!

3. Getting enough sleep is not overrated. Being well-rested can fix almost anything. So boring but I think most epiphanies are, honestly.

4. What are you currently making, reading, watching, or listening to?

I am opening up a new piece of land for the farm. It’s a brutal process of hard manual labor but to me, it’s the most rewarding part of farming. I’m always reading Stephen King and always listening to angsty ’90s girl alt-rock, or a podcast about farming or murder.

5. Cake or Pie?

This question. Why so cruel? My initial answer is pie. It feeds that human desire to enjoy fresh seasonal native fruits in a simple form. But, I really love making and decorating cakes for my kids’ birthday parties. There have been some complicated ones! They never really turn out quite right but my kids think I am a magician and the joy it brings them is untouchable. 

Instagram @shepardsflockfarm
Shop and Sign up for workshops online shepardsflockfarm.com

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Talitha Gaylor is the artist owner of Opaline Glassworks. She lives in a 125-year-old farm house in Elgin with her husband and dogs.

1. Why did you move to Elgin? 

My family and I moved to Elgin eight years ago when our daughter started college at UT. We fell in love with a 125-year-old farmhouse and we have gradually worked on restoring it and creating our dream home. We have also fallen in love with this amazing community and our daughter recently bought a house here as well!

2. What compels you to spend time creating?

I have had a lifelong love for creating and writing. I spent 25 years as a teacher and school counselor, squeezing in opportunities for creative outlets. It’s such a privilege to be able to dedicate my time to creating full-time. I am a very goal driven person so maintaining challenging and interesting goals keeps me motivated. I also thrive on connection so from the moment I discovered the She Creates Community in Elgin I knew I wanted to be a part of it.

3. Tell me three things you’ve learned in the past five years.

She Creates also led me to finding an awesome accountability group. They have taught me so much about productivity as an artist. I’ve always enjoyed working as part of a team so it’s great to have like-minded collaborators. 

It’s hard to choose just three things I’ve learned in the past five years. Starting a new career after 50 has been a rapid learning curve, but I love it! Having an accountability group has taught me so much about establishing processes when I am creating. 

They have also taught me about what it means to be a business person and how to promote myself and my business. 

The most important thing I have learned is to truly regard myself as an artist, valuing my time and my work in higher esteem. I still have a LOT to learn but I’m enjoying it.

4. What are you currently making, reading, watching, or listening to?

I was lucky enough to be gifted an abundance of vintage glass recently so I’ve been working backwards on my stained glass projects lately. I usually choose a project and buy materials to create it. Now I am creating projects that lend themselves to the materials. It has been an unexpected challenge for me because the glass seems to break in different ways so it’s also a chance to improve my skills and try out some larger pieces. 

  I love junk journaling. It really helps me focus my thoughts. I was inspired by a friend to start 1000 Gratitudes and this has become part of my journaling. I have a lot of varied interests so reminding myself of what’s really important helps me follow through AND edit.

  I also enjoy writing and I’m working on a Hero’s Journey story with a friend. I’ve been reading Fantasy Story Recipes created by Storyfolk and just finished reading Fairy Tale by Stephen King. I generally like to pair nonfiction and fiction on whatever theme or idea I’m exploring. I think it must be the teacher in me!

5. Cake or Pie?

PIE, all kinds, sweet and savory!

…….

Instagram @opalineglassworks

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So I kept my tomatoes whole and with the little green things attached cause they beautiful just as they are. I threw in some raw brocollini, crumbed feta, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, some pepper and extra v olive oil. Oh and I tore some fresh mint.

So fresh, so yum, so grateful

I made coffee in my favorite cup, took my camera out for the first time in ages and thought that this is a perfect way to open up my food and photography blog.

So, there’s not much to this. Black coffee with a touch of cinnamon on top. Next time I’ll also add some vanilla paste to it.

Years ago, my best-friend’s best-friend (I’ll give you a minute… lol) was going through some heavy things in her life. She was dealing with a man that… hm. Let’s just say he didn’t recognize her worth and he wasn’t the man for her. As she dealt with a broken and betrayed heart, I recall being lead to deliver the following words to her, “After every storm, is a rainbow.” I remember it like it was yesterday. Just as I remember the incident, I also remember how those words helped her get through. Oh, and for the record, she let that guy go and she is currently HAPPILY married to an amazing man with a daughter and a new child one the way.

You see, she had to go through hardship in order to get her happy. The hardship was just a detour in the route that lead her to her destination.  It was not a dead end. Ha! That was pretty nice huh? DEEEEPPPP! (Are ya’ll snapping your fingers? Lighting candles? Awwww mannn! Okay, back to the subject at hand. lol) I have been struggling with different things in my life over the past few months. Everything from relationships, motherhood, career decisions, financial decisions, leaps of faith, body weight, healing from past hurts, learning self and just submitting to the natural flow of where EBONY is supposed to go. It’s such a beautiful process and journey, but the truth is, it doesn’t come without pain and difficulty. When you come to a place where you can be honest with yourself, you realize that the saying, “The truth hurts.” is just as applicable to you, as it is to everyone that you have ever said it to.

As I was driving home from a store run this evening, it began to rain. It started to pour actually and moments later, my kids pointed out something to me that reminded me of the very advice that I gave to my best-friend’s best-friend (I hope by now it’s processed! lol) that day. It was so beautiful that I actually pulled my truck over to take a photo. Here it is:

Say no more right?

This was the revelation that I needed for the day and I am thankful for it. I hope that this post in some way will also bring clarification to whoever is reading this that may need it. Life. It’s unpredictable and things happen. They aren’t always good, but just KNOW THIS, if you make it through the bad, there is something better on the other side. There is a rainbow. (Skittles…taste the rainbow. lol Sorry couldn’t help myself!!!)

Whatever it is that you may be going through. What ever your CURRENT struggles are, know that, that’s all it is. It’s for NOW. The present has no control over the future.

• Do you have a favourite poem, or are have you written a poem yourself, that you’d love others to read?
• Do you have any tips, tricks, hacks, recommendations, favourite quotes, or just want to share things that you love?
• Do you have a tried and true favourite recipe or cocktail that you know we’d enjoy?
• Do you want to share your experiences in parenting, pregnancy, fitness/health, careers, relationships, marriage and life?
• Have you read something that has touched you profoundly, helped you immensely or let you escape your reality for a little bit that you’d love to recommend? Book reviews from any genre including fiction, memoirs and self-help, to name a few, are welcome here.
• Is there something that you’ve thought a lot about, felt deeply for or discussed in great depths with your besties because its just so impactful on your life that you can’t help but share?

What do you get when you take two women; one having a fashion and design background within sustainability and ecology; the other adverse in all things Charlotte Bronte and lover of every aspect of the design process, she finds herself lost within it?

Easy.. You get Arina and Anya; the environmental warrior women behind Woron. The ethical Scandinavian lingerie company; that combines sexy, natural and sustainable – to create a product that makes you believe in good fashion, in all senses of the word.

I found out about Arina and Anya through the platform Eth-ics; it took me about five minutes to realise that I had to talk to them; not just because their product is gorgeous; but because I knew they had a story as designers, that I could help tell.

Instagram @woronstore

As a young women especially a differently abled young women, I take pride in what I wear; so I can make sure I am presenting the best version of myself as a person. Arina and Anya have created a product that allows me to do this; feeling valued as I am. “You will not find push up bras in our collection, we want to show that simple, natural and clean, is so attractive” This is apart of Woron’s philosophy; which is translated into positive body image perception, invaluable for this day and age.

Arina and Anya’s product is as beautiful as they are and that same beauty is given in part to each of their customers, when their products are bought. Drawing inspiration from Stella McCartney, Woron’s sustainable philosophy comes from a calling they have to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves; using Sustainable Fashion Essentials as a message that less is more and that value and voice; is not supported in fast fashion.

“[This goes hand in hand] with our personal wardrobe; which combines comfort with luxurious products, we want [Woron] to bring out the best in the woman wearing it; and be something she’ll love for years” Arina said.

The women behind Woron run their company with the inspiration of their grandmother, whose passion rubbed off on them as young girls, the elegance and grace of Arina and Anya’s grandmother is something they want their brand and themselves to always have; and talking to them, it is clear that they do; Woron is a creation by beautiful women, who were influenced by “admirable and amazing” women; because of that influence; they have been able to make gorgeous products and be role models to others.

Woron is made 100% naturally and sustainably; “we want this to go hand and hand with a feminine and sexy look” this has not been an easy quest for Arina and Anya, “it has been a long road to find the right production collaborators” and they say it eloquently when they say; they’ve learned that “saying something is not the same as doing something”. In the face of challenges, the girls have not relented and have found people who want to go in a common direction with them; this just shows what is to be gained in following your heart and gut “there is something truly rewarding about living your dreams if they do not fit into the ordinary model” the girls said. Ain’t that the truth! “Sometimes you will stand completely alone in following your heart” they continued. But their triumph shows; how it can lead to a beautiful and authentic life and product;

Woron’s production shows what is possible to be created when you’re in tune with who you are and aren’t afraid to be guided away from the “common direction.” As Anya and Arina described it.

These women have transformed their ideas from “A universe in [their] own minds into a tangible product; that gives satisfaction [and good fashion] to others in the material world” The girls say that this makes them feel accomplished, but they should feel even more then that; they are revolutionary for this; legends in my book.

Instagram: @woronstore

 

As a young women whose body is not one often reflected in the media, I’d like to thank them whole heartily for their natural is beautiful philosophy; it means more then they’ll ever know and I am here to tell you Woron is apart of #Fairtradeforfuture

Diversity Matters is proud to deliver an interactive workshop during Graduates Futures Week facilitated by three women of colour who are successful industry practitioners living in, or with links to, London!

As part of the discourse around diversity in education and the creative industry, this event gives an opportunity to highlight representation of women of colour we don’t often get to see behind influential design. It also offers representation for students of colour who lack BAME (black and ethnic minority) teaching staff at UAL; Europe’s largest university for art and design.

She Creates: women of colour in graphic design and illustration will give you an insight into the styles, techniques and cultural influence of our industry professionals’ work, inspiring you to incorporate varied approaches, and explore your own cultural influence, into your creations. Hear our experts share their stories on how they got started in graphic design and illustration, as well as their tips on overcoming the challenges faced along the way.

Facilitated by Tamika Kawabuchi; a Japanese born interior designer at Fosters + Partners, Roshnee Desai; LCC alumna now leading a design team in Mumbai India, and Dorcas Magbadelo; the British-Nigerian illustrator behind the brand Dorcas Creates, which showcases empowering images of black women through illustration and thoughtful quotes. 14th July at London College of Communication 2.30pm – 4pm. This event is FREE. Open to all UAL students, staff and alumni.

CLICK HERE to book!

Ones to look out for…

CLICK HERE to find out more about Graduates Futures Week!

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DIVERCITY ARTS PROJECT 4th – 17th July

Looking for an opportunity to gain practical skills, mentoring from industry professionals, team building skills and an opportunity to sell your works created in Camden Market this July? Then apply for Divercity Arts Project! Open to all UAL students (and 2016 graduates). Deadline fast approaching – apply now! CLICK HERE or email info@diversitymatters.org.uk 

However if you’re from anywhere outside of New Zealand, you probably have no idea who Max Key is… Let’s start there shall we.

Max Key, is a young guy; who is entering the music scene, I don’t really know much more about him, his father is the also New Zealand’s Prime Minister.

Max seems to cop a lot of peoples comments and opinions regarding what he does, mostly because of his father. He has new projects coming out in a few days and I know that New Zealand Newspapers and early morning television, will be all over it in some way; perhaps with some not-so-positive comments.

So this is where I come in, before the clickbait headlines; not in the defence of Max, because he can defend himself I am sure; and as I said I know very little about him, expect that his Snapchat story is tops.

I have raced to my keyboard prior to clickbait; so I can talk about the importance of remaining innovative and confident in the face of criticism; this is especially important for young people.

Max Key, is finding is way; as all youth are, for reasons out of his control him finding his way, is subject to more attention; then most. That does not give anyone license to speak in a way that discourages or works against his efforts. Every person has a place and they do not find it straight away, it will take time.

People will speak against you when you’re trying to find your place; there will also be many who will advocate on your behalf; however within all of this remember the fact that it is your voice; that matters; what you think about you carries the most weight; never stop doing something because others dislike it or it is not “mainstream” be confident. In what you’re doing and who you are;

Sometimes people are afraid of what is possible, in creative, new; innovative thinking; so they speak against it; the important thing is if you believe in it, if you want it, if you know or have faith in trying; it is worth it. You are worth it.

Stay innovative and please don’t click on the clickbait that will come up on New Zealand media outlets because of Max Key in the coming weeks; unless its supportive and innovative; because thats the attitude you deserve and it is one you should also give to others; those in the news and those out. 

I automatically love anything that includes polka dots, castles and a classy length – so I am all about the circle skirts in this shop.

I realised that each of the skirts are a lot like us, these bits of material could’ve been made into anything at all, but someone came along with a plan and they were made into a skirt, they had this whole life as a skirt, to then end up in this store and be called vintage. A different name then you might call a skirt from Pinch and Punch, but still just as beautiful and worthy of someone, valuing those materials; and having pride in that skirt.

You and I, certain circumstances were not our choice, like that skirt was made under somebody else’s plan, so too were parts of our lives out of our control and in someone else’s hands and this will continue, our lives will never entirely be our own choices, things will happen we will have zero control over. What we can learn from the skirts, is the simple fact that the lack-of-control we will sometimes have is not scary or to be feared but has the potential to be beautiful and help us form as people, because we are beautiful but that beauty is not free from struggle, rather that is when our beauty is formed.

Just as these skirts had entire lives and other names before being called vintage. No one name dictates you or I. A mother is not just a mother a person who uses a wheelchair or has a disability is not simply disabled, a young person lost, is not forever that way. Everyone has the potential to be anything else they choose – The circumstances in your life that were not your choice do not dictate you, but there is still beauty to be found in them, there is beauty in every part of you.

Wether vintage or modern, that skirt has the potential to create happiness for it’s owner and make her feel beautiful, you have that same potential; to make someone happy or remind them of their beauty, so matter what make sure you do that. Because it is so important people know their worth and potential, that they can find beauty in others and are beautiful.

Because yes parts of our lives are out of our control, but there is nothing stopping us from creating something beautiful from what we have; just like this vintage store uses what it has, to remake something and find purpose for a fabric that might otherwise not be used, you have purpose and are beautiful; you can create yourself into anything you want.

Now exactly a year later, I’m sat writing about Nathan Simkin and his journey with True North, last year around this time a train took me in a direction I assume to be North, this year, I am on my way to finding my True North or at least writing about it.

At this point are you wondering what a True North is? Well it is, north according to the earth’s axis’ not a compass’ – never one to take things at their literal meaning, our True North as people, means not being afraid to shy away from what is universally accepted, to follow and find your own direction toward what you deem to be worth following. This True North is different for each person, for some True North might be following faith, for others the pursuit toward True North might be found in a passion, advocation, relationship or family.

Either way True North, finds it’s name in the idea that every person has purpose and no person should be afraid of where their going, because sometimes you find direction in the most unlikely places, perhaps a train floor or in the words of Nathan Simkin, who found his True North in his clothing brand True North.

When you talk to Nathan Simkin, two things come to mind, the first is damn this guy is doing some wicked stuff and the second? You repeat the first again, because he’s just that good.  His brand is awesome, but I am also talking about him, about his person and pursuits, True North as a brand is an example of what can be done, when you follow your heart and aren’t afraid of where it will lead you. We also see what is to be gained in doing something different, finding success in diversity.

That is why I want to tell you his story, because we’re all on a journey to find our True North, why not be on that journey wearing True North Clothing? Because clothes are more then you could ever comprehend, beyond the cotton and the trend, all of that, clothes are apart of the sum of who we are, they allow us to express who we want to be, they are what screams when we are silent and True North Clothing, as I hope this post does, screams at us, to live without fear, to live authentically, passionately, in times when we might feel like doing otherwise.

Nathan built his brand off of diverse influences, as well as a consistent love for design “Ive always done a lot of design, in school I did Graphics and now I do all the media for my parents church so that’s always come naturally. In terms of clothing, as I said I’ve loved band merchandise, so clothing seemed to be the perfect fit.” As I said clothes are what we paint our scaffold with, if you get my drift. And so Nathan as a person before True North, painted diversely and that same diversity is carried through in the influences of his brand.

“An influence has been the bands I follow which is a lot of metal and metalcore, these types of musicians, make their living off selling merchandise – of which they put a lot effort into and make them look sweet! With my label I wanted to recreate that feel of high quality band merchandise, but not at crazy prices.”

This array of influences shows to us, what is to be gained from every experience and every person – in order to create ourselves, we must see others. True North is empowered by bits and pieces of our world and uses those pieces to create something entirely unique and beautiful as such. Just as Nathan is as a person, an individual made of collective elements and beautiful in that way, which empowers those around him and those who wear his brand to live and be content in the same manner.

Another influence of Nathan’s has been a clothing brand called Like Wolf, “I was in school and a friend a few years above me had a clothing label [Like Wolf Clothing] which I looked up to and got inspiration from”. As well as the influence of faith but in a way that to quote Nathan directly “doesn’t shove it down your throat”.

Because everybody has the right to find their own True North, at the end of the day we should support, every individuals individual pursuit in that. Why not support each other in True North Clothing? Because if any brand reminds us what is to be gained in following a path you love and being unafraid, it is True North and if any person deserves admiration for embodying these same qualities, it is Nathan. 

Nathan gained influence from Like Wolf, and now he to aims “[through his endeavours to] influence the next future clothing label starters.” Like Wolf Clothing, has since shut up shop, the brands owner Matthew Hanson, remains to be influential to all people, myself included. When I told him about the influence Like Wolf gave Nathan, Hanson was humbled and said the following

“I was stoked when Nathan came to me because I was just making it up as I went along, not too sure if things were cool or not.  Sometimes you think people just buy your shirts because they feel sorry for you [or feel as if they have to support you].  But when Nathan came to me I was stoked, it gave me a reason to carry on – if i could inspire Nathan to try something new [and eventually create True North] then BOOM!  That’s all I was looking for.  I have one of Nathan’s early designs and I get compliments each time I wear it.  Solid 10/10. 

I have enjoyed watching True North grow over the past few years as Nathan has slowly and faithfully grown – not trying to take over the whole world at once. Like Wolf is now only a fond memory I hold dear to my heart with a few last shirts and hats to be seen around but True North is far from that – and that makes me stoked. So to you Nathan, keep up the good work, you and your team are doing and you will take over the world.”

I kept this statement a surprise from Nathan, so Nathan, I hope this serves to show you, that we are all campaigning for your success, thank you, for helping us find our True North.

When I asked Hanson, if he’d ever get back into clothing, his reply was “I’m defiantly keen to get back into clothing – I love it when you see someone wearing something you created and loving it, or receiving compliments for it.  Good buzz.  So in short yes – I will get into something.  When? Don’t know.  What?  Don’t know”

Who knows what is in the future, but designers supporting other designers leaves room for greatness, good men supporting all people in their quest to be good men? Leaves room for a future full of possibility. The mutual influence of brands like True North and Like Wolf exemplifies the fact that it is in supporting each other, we find our True North, we are able to see higher, do more not because we are taller, but because we are borne aloft, upon the height and support of others, when you wear True North, you are reminded constantly of the power possessed in this ideal, there is nothing more powerful then that.

“I want True North to been seen as a positive brand that looks to up lift others, join with and support local events and bands as well as delivering a message of hope.” Well I can tell you, Nathan without a doubt, that True North does this and more, as I said it is an example of everything that is possible when you follow your own path and heart, never be afraid of what is to be gained in this ideal.

You are stronger then you know and your True North is whatever you want it to be, anything is possible.  If you set yourself goals, and do what you must in order to achieve them “[Going to festivals to promote True North was] a goal I set myself. I’ve now attend two festivals with True North, anything is possible if you get on and do it, It’s not easy [however] the opportunities that come up and rewards of doing what you love make it all worth while, [because some people will not be supportive] there are people who try to destroy your passion and goals, but those are few and far – when I think back now the friends I’ve made and the people around me that support me it’s unbelievable. I’m so grateful”

If you take one thing out of this, take the fact that you should never be afraid of your True North and when you are, when you question your purpose, think of Nathan, all that he built was to remind you of what is possible, what is possible in you.

One of my favourite poems, is Casey at the Bat, because despite striking out, he plays . Mighty Casey. So go play and don’t let the fear of striking out, keep you on the sideline, because our team jersey’s are the design of Nathan, True North Clothing, tangible reminders of our True North, reminding us to keep playing and kill the next inning.

This post is dedicated to the one person of another brand, who “bagged” True North when it was just beginning, I hope you found your True North, I’ll buy you one of their new t-shirt’s.

After I had this exchange, the first person I thought of was  Andrew Van Asselt, despite never meeting him face to face, or knowing his favourite colour, for some reason I knew he’d say something that put it into perspective, because he screams authenticity. I never told him about this incident, I just ended up thinking about him, because from everything that I have seen, heard, known about this wonderful human, I knew he was authentic and I knew he did not apologise for it. At a time when I needed a model of that, there he was. “I became authentic when I found out my true self and what I was born to do and that is [my company] Ethics”

I want to tell you  Andrew Van Asselt ’s story. Because as human beings, we have little control, the weather changes, the sun rises. But we, we have control over who we are, what we choose to believe and say and those choices, begin to be made when we see authenticity in vivid instead of easy erase. I realised, that people will sometimes be uncomfortable, but all I can do, is be myself, Because when it comes down to it. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Never apologise for it.

This image is the property of Andrew Van Asselt used with permission

Without even knowing it Andrew taught me that. Through himself and his platforms. He has so much to teach you, so much good to do. Here is just a little of his Story of Style in Progress. It is one of faith, it is one of goodness and it is one that you need to hear. As humans our beliefs may be different, our choices varied, but the pursuit to be authentic is one we all uptake, however we define it and that pursuit is strengthened by hearing stories, by seeing authenticity in action. For Andrew that means “being authentic [I believe] starts with knowing God and knowing how he created you”  I am aware that not all people, carry this kind of faith, this same belief and that is your choice and deserves respect, however so too does this story, because it is one you will hear at some point in your life,  Andrew Van Asselt  is a name that will be written in vivid, not easy erase. Why not, know his story now.

“Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.” Isaiah 58:12

I love the idea, that people are built to restore, I mean we come into this world and so much has been built, so much done for us and we are thought of as the generation that is suppose to do more. But how about restore. As young people, we can do new exciting things, but we can also restore, wether it be rescuing the exploited, fighting for the broken, charging the corrupt we can raise up from these foundations and restore. That is what the platform of Eth-ics and  Andrew Van Asselt  does, in everything it fights against what is commonly done, to bring about more of what once was and will be that is designs made ethically and consciously, to empower both the maker and the wearer. “Eth-ics is an online store and publication that features socially conscious brands and ethical fashion from around the world in one platform. We only carry [what we believe to be] the best brands that are the best quality, we want brands that help people.”

Brands such as Future Glory, who make beautiful bags, in aid of combatting human trafficking or The Great Beyond that makes 100% organic bamboo products. As well as Andrews own streetwear brand Coalition for Justice, that aims to also fight Trafficking. For Eth-ics it is as much about the story behind the brand as it is about the style. Eth-ics is aiming to become a publication, “we are working on building our online magazine, we want to be the place where people can find the best fashion and brands that are doing good”.

Everything Van Asselt does, with his beautiful platform aims to restore fashion from a culture of mass market to one of empowerment and individuality. But he also builds from the ruins, something new, something wonderful “what makes us different is that we really focus on the fashion side, we have a young feel we want [to empower] young adults in our fashion”

Another example is Woron store, a company described by Eth-ics in the following “Every underwear garment [made by Woron] is sewn in a small family-owned factory in Europe from sustainably sourced fabric called Lenzing Modal, which is a fine, smooth fibre made from beech wood. It is created by turning the wood into pulp, extracting the fibre and then reconstituting the fibre so that it can be spun into fabric. The beech wood used in [their] Modal production is from sustainable forestry plantations growing native trees. It is cool to the touch and very absorbent, meaning less waste of water. Modal textile is more resistant to shrinkage, fading and greying than cotton, thereby extending its lifespan – that is sustainability.” Photo by Andrew Van Asselt

Eth–ics as it builds from ruins and restores foundations will also build bridges to unify all people involved in the ethical and socially conscious movement, that is their biggest aim for the online publication “[I came up with the idea for an online publication because] I’ve never seen a magazine that was highlighting an ethically or socially conscious voice from a perspective like my own, When I looked around at societies ethical voice, I saw it [active] for hippies and mums not that there is anything wrong with that voice, but I thought what about people like me who love good [conscious and ethical] fashion but also have a bit of an edge.

The publication of Eth-ics aims to bring back edge to the ethical, “we want [this publication] to be a place where we can highlight up and coming brands and help shape [a youth driven ethical] movement. I want this publication, to be a place where doing good is seen as sexy, hot” his publication is the new voice, the sexy voice, that will show youth that goodness is as good as it gets. As much as it is a new voice, a new publication fresh and trending, the publication of Eth-ics will also work to restore, to show people what the world has been missing, in our mass market haze.

“The biggest challenge for me [as a young person] was not knowing my value and not caring [to find it] the church pushed me to become my best” But now, Andrew as an adult is creating this publication and created his platform, to show the value of others and further every individuals quest to find their value. Just as ethical will be done with an edge, just as goodness will be seen as sexy through this publication. So too, every person will see that they are ornately good, they are sexy in their own way and that is valued.

Van Asselt  is not just shaping a movement, he is also shaping a generation. He started his companies at 25, meant to be a young person that shapes, meant to be a human who lives in faith and goodness, he models to all of us what it means to find and follow your passion. As young people we do not always know what our passion is, just as Van Asselt  never knew he’d be a designer, but it is in supporting endeavours like the Eth-ics publication we are able to further our quest toward passion, the more people we have doing good in this world, young, old, sexy, soccer mum whoever uses their voice to add goodness, furthers us to build from age old foundations something new and restore the broken.

Photo by Andrew Van Asselt used with permission

It is time we knew that “yes [some] ethical or conscious fashion is expensive but there are so many brands that are amazing [well priced] and good fashion” it is only through exposure, accessibility and support that this ideal will be universal. You can make it these things, by talking about it, by supporting Andrew’s endeavours and other amazing campaigns, good is good, no matter how it is done or who by, because in van Asselt ’s words “each person is different and [we] need to be sensitive to that, it comes down to being authentic” never be afraid to do your good, but do it in conjunction with supporting others pursuits. It is an honour to support the good that  Andrew Van Asselt  is doing, it is an honour to know him even a little, it is an honour beyond honours to tell you his story, one in progress but so beautiful it makes me believe in restoring, believe in building, believing in being, apart of the movement. Being authentic. “[something I’d like to tell people is] jump in faith God will catch you, weigh up the risk verses the reward because your past does not tell you what your future will be, learn do not dwell on the past”. Know that you have the capability to be apart of the movement, whatever you choose, being authentic, being yourself is the first step in this.

Eth-ics is an example of the amazing things that happen, when you take the leap. Andrew the leader of what he dreams to be “[Eth-ics] the biggest socially conscious magazine and online platform, with stories from around the world, that change the world and empower people in that change” I have no doubt, his dreams are vivid realities drawn out of faith and the product of passion. Because #STYLETELLSTHESTORY “that means that your style tells your story, reflects your person. What you wear tells your story, but also when you buy from Eth-ics you are telling the story of our brands, you are empowering South American women, fighting for African children and you can share their story when you wear our brands”

This was  Andrew Van Asselt ’s story, so let me ask you, what’s yours? Don’t be afraid to write it.

The things we collect along the way are apart of that story.

I was lucky enough to have a chat with the lovely people from Hello Darling a store in New Zealand that stocks brands like Kowtow (which y’all know I love)

I had a chat with one of the darlings (Clare) from Hello Darling, it was an honour to ask some questions, in speaking I realised that Hello Darling is a lot more than a shop, clothes and shoes it is a place where love flourishes and self expression is valued – the shop, tells a story and allows people to express their own story through clothing.

I have attached a kind of transcript of my conversation with the lovely Clare, I thought instead of putting Q’s and A’s a transcript structure would give you more insight into Clare’s character, because she is just a wonderful human being – One who’s story is worth telling – to you.

   I have always loved fashion and design. Starting from a very early age I used to design dresses in scrapbooks and draw floor plans for homes! I started doing this as far back as I can remember! I have always wanted a brick and mortar retail store which makes people feel welcome as soon as they enter and create a space people feel comfortable in.  It’s taken me a long time to realise this dream and it’s quite stressful at times! I totally believe that if you want something bad enough eventually it will happen for you, I’ve never been afraid of taking risks and I kind of felt like it was my time to do something I’ve always wanted to do.  I’ve raised four gorgeous children and I’m still married to my husband after 32 years so I figured it was my turn. A lot of people are purely price driven in their buying and that’s fine but I am quite the opposite. I’ve always believed less is more and that buying quality timeless things will last you a very long time if not forever, and to wear everything you have and use everything you have so there’s no need for lots of things.  I’ve always liked stories behind what I purchase and this now comes through in my store.  I like to know where it’s come from, the conditions that it is made in, the reasons behind why it’s made, I know this isn’t possible in everything I stock but I hope it will be one day.  I find I don’t even look at anything in mainstream mass produced ‘fast fashion’ now when I’m out and about.  I know I am at a stage in my life where I can choose that and I know a lot of people can’t so I’m not hung up on it for others.  I choose to be that way.  I love the stories behind some of my products, I love knowing the suppliers and I love being able to choose.  I love Kowtow. I have been wearing it for years.  Not only because it’s timeless and classic and well made but I LOVE the story behind it and the history of the brand.  I love how they care for their staff and I love how they make sure their children got to school It’s like FRANK. I love how this young couple have chosen to fight hold poverty in NZ and how last year they donated over 10,000 items to NZ schools from their sales.  It’s so cool when people are so selfless.  I honestly believe that more and more products are going to be ethically produced going forward, I believe people are going to care more about those things and think before they pick up something or buy five things from a chain store, that they might stop and think, this equates to one ethically well made piece of clothing I can wear for years!  I created this business firstly because I’ve always wanted a retail store but I also did it for my daughters who are now raising families of their own, thinking they may want to work with me and take it over when I’m no longer around.  So that they have an income as well as the choice to be at home with their children if they want to be, like I was.  I choose to be that kind of parent and I was lucky enough that my interior design work allowed me to do short term contracts and always in school hours.  I have also always helped run my husbands electrical business.  The other thing I love about this new adventure is the people I am meeting, I hadn’t taken that into account when I thought about opening a store but I am making the most amazing friends along the way and that I think is going to be the best thing about Hello Darling!

Isn’t she a stunner, I mean man her story is so amazing on so many levels, I absolutely loved having a conversation with her. You can see her caring and kind nature alive within each of her words and her understanding, that every individual is unique. That is amazing. Because you’re unique and amazing.

Clare and Hello Darling were running a competition called things that tell a story and this is so appropriate, because if anything storytells it is Hello Darling. What we can learn from Clare and the story of Hello Darling is the fact that we should all have the courage to tell our stories in everything we do. Because we all have worth and unique character – we must show and tell the world. Hello Darling teaches us to have courage! Story tell, express your character everywhere you can in E V E R Y W A Y

The competition they had asked Instagram users to photograph things that tell a story, so here are mine. My story, like Clare, I hope to one day be a mark of courage, I am working toward that and Clare is a role model of such action, such beautiful expression and courage.

My things that tell a story 

That black book with all the paper in, is my blog book with every, goal, appointment, dream, break down, plan within it

Those three books, have/are shaping my character and have taught me life lessons.

That black dress was the first thing I wore that made me feel pretty even in casts. The first time after my operation, I felt like me again in that dress.

The words in the corner of the photo were written for me, they’ve been constant encouragement

The rings are the stack I wear everyday and they each have meaning to me.

My laptop, my blog, my essence.

That is my story or apart of it. Have courage like Clare and tell yours.

Hello Darling, Goodbye Darling.

There has been definite rise in the accessibility of ethically made goods, with this we see awareness of Fast Fashion growing, along with an effort, to see it’s eventual cease. Fast Fashion, is the abundance of mass produced labels, whose goods are made away from ethical principal. We are seeing that the fashion industry is making an effort, to end the exploitation of those working in developing countries in the name of mass production and fast fashion.

More and more companies are entering the mainstream as ethical, brands like Kowtow, Tribe Alive and Future Glory are examples of this, the conversation about ethical trade is alight, with voices, however my role here, is to talk, to youth.

Because we have a role in this movement and as I have read and googled and read some more about the ethical trade movement, specially ethical clothing, for this post. I have been cemented in using my voice to share with you, what we can do and what I have learned.  About this movement.

You might be thinking, what does this have to do with me. Well you, could’ve been that woman working in horrific conditions.

Would you want someone to fight for you, if you were that woman? We’re lucky enough to have a voice, to manifest in action and fight for those who are voiceless.

So lets talk about what youth can do.

Buy Less Choose Well. 

As a kid, we didn’t really get to decide what we wore, but as we get older and go out shopping, develop a style. We do get to decide, and when a top is $5 it is easy to think, I will just save money and buy a few of these. The reason that top is so cheap, is because of fast fashion, those who made this top, got paid next to nothing and made hundreds like it.

The top, you can buy in high quantity because it is low quality.

As you make the choices for what you buy, the question you must ask is do I want to have quality or quantity. 

Because, brands like Kowtow do cost more, to buy a garment, but that is simply because; it is of high quality and morally made. One garment, will last you years, which in the long run saves you money, because you do not have to go out, and replace $5 top after $5 top.

Choose garments, of good quality, that you can use constantly as you get older and you make more choices about what you wear, think of which Q you would like to be a supporter of.

Quality or Quantity. Because one empowers its maker, the other degrades her. 

When you’re looking in the mirror, wearing that garment, think not just about how it looks, but who made it.

It wouldn’t be in my best interest to mention brands specifically, however if you’re unsure, what brands are not considered ethical, use the internet and do research before you shop, about where you shop. Many platforms exist online, such as the Fabric Social and Eth-ics which work to show you, ethical clothing labels; similar platforms exist to show you unethical brands.

As well as using the internet, to further your knowledge. Think about pricing if a full price pair of jeans in the local mall, is $15.00 then the price obviously doesn’t reflect, a well made garment, or an ethically paid worker. It rather reflects Fast Fashion.

It will cost more, but that is because it is worth more. Buy Less Choose Well.

The amount of water it takes to make a pair of jeans is equal to 285 showers. Fancy a pair of recycled jeans? – The Global Fashion exchange. 

Mud Jeans is a sustainable fashion organisation, you can buy or lease their jeans as long as you return them at the end of use, they’re cutting down on resources and reusing valuable materials, basically they’re winning!

By shopping at op shops or recycling clothes, you too can win. Because even if a garment isn’t necessarily made ethically, buying from op shops, or recycling clothes, instead of buying new, means a garment lasts longer. A longer life span means, that the materials of the garment are being valued, resources are being cut down, because less garments made is equal to less materials used; and the prevalence of the unethical fashion industry is slowly lessened. Because less purchases are being made.

They’re are lots of awesome op shops in Auckland, like Tattys which sell mint clothes. Recycling, helping the quest for ethical trade further in accessibility and buying mint clothes. Everyone wins. 

Another thing you could do is clothes swaps with your friends, because we all have a least one friend the same size as us, if you’re over a piece of clothing, or want something new. You could do a clothes swap with a friend, you both get something new to you and help the ethical clothing industry continue to flourish.

Fancy a pair of recycled jeans. Yeah ya do! 

She Made This – has been absolutely epic in helping me write this post. They have empowered me just as, buying and selling ethically made and fair trade products empowers the creators, the people, who make what we purchase. She Made This – We Bought it.

The quest for Ethical Trade isn’t just about buying and selling ethical products. More accessibly.

It is also about empowering the creators of these products, giving creators an opportunity and furthering, the self confidence of these creators. To know their worth and greatness.

You aren’t just buying a dress, when you buy ethically, you are buying a dress that gives a woman in a developing country an opportunity to support her family, adequately. When you buy a bag or a basket, that was made by someone paid fairly, you are getting a high quality product that is worth the money, but also shows the creator their worth.

Ethical purchase of clothes and products, are not just clothes and products; rather they are clothes and products that also work to do something. Make change, breed empowerment. When you recycle clothes, or do clothes swaps, when you buy from op shops, you are not doing these things, just for ethical reasons. You are doing it, so you can make a statement, that you will not purchase from companies, that devalue their workers, degrade their workers.

We have the power, because we can all do something. I am here, to empower you. So we can empower the creators of these products, the workers. Together.

I totally recommend reading the Mainstream Detox Post Series they’re currently doing. For a more in depth look into ethical fashion.

Think about your fashion. Youth have a role in this movement.

I did not start Letters to Corey for my own benefit; rather for yours, to showcase the beauty, passion and colour that is evident in the world but often overlooked; instead often published are stories of the opposite nature.

This is changing, and it is not just me creating such a change; two artists Charlotte Left-Weatherley and Sam Strong Christmas are two people who endorse the pursuit of colour in the world; through their art; but so much more than that, they give the world colour and make the world better because of their character, the both of them are the kind of people that do not hesitate to help, support and be a friend to you. They have been here for me during this time and I cannot thank them enough for it, the fact that I didn’t lose it on the way to the OR is largely down to the encouragement and supportiveness they gave me.

Art; like writing makes things more clear, brighter I need more of that right now; as does the world; anything that I can do to help them get there art out there; I will do because I believe that they can do so much good; the nurse who just handed me my next round of medications; asked me about what I was writing to which I said “I am writing about people. because every opportunity, is one to do good”

The art above is done by Sam Strong Christmas you can look here for all of his details, webpages and links.

The art below is done by Charlotte Left-Weatherley here is her details, webpage and links

Being here, puts things into perspective and it is not until you hear a kid scream or you yourself scream that you can appreciate the small things that give happiness, art, writing; we must believe in them they’ll pull us through.

She Creates @eva

~

slate white or black blank

dots everywhere solar flares

midnight she creates

~

Why?

It’s all about the DOTS, of course.  Since much of my art is composed of tiny dots–a technique called stippling--Michio Kaku’s little chat about his new book caught my attention. Once I lay eyes and hands on The Future of the Mind hopefully I’ll have more to say about it than the fact that my curiosity is highly aroused by Kaku’s notions.  What’s brewing in your mind?

~

The Future of the Mind by Michio Kaku

Knopfdoubleday

~~

Michio Kaku’s official site –>> http://mkaku.org/home/publications/about-the-future-of-the-mind/

An excerpt from the book:   http://www.msnbc.com/morning-joe/excerpt-the-future-the-mind

]]> https://shedabbles.wordpress.com/2012/07/09/projects-and-pinkies/ Mon, 09 Jul 2012 20:52:22 +0000 shedabbles https://shedabbles.wordpress.com/2012/07/09/projects-and-pinkies/ I always have such high hopes for the weekend. The moment I walk out the door at 5:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon, I am picturing how I will be spending the next 56 hours. The possibilities seem endless! Then, within a blink of an eye it is Monday morning and I am dragging my tired butt out of bed. This morning at the first buzz of the alarm, I literally asked Danny if it was Monday as it didn’t seem possible that the weekend was gone.

This past weekend I had planned to complete four different Pinterest projects I had been eyeing for weeks now. They all seemed so simple, it was more of a matter of gathering the supplies and sitting down to complete them. After a quick stop to JoAnn’s Friday night, my weekend was off to a wonderful start. Friday night was date night so I knew that I wouldn’t be able to start my projects until Saturday.

Saturday morning came and took me to the gym. When I came home, Danny mentioned laying out at the pool, which is something that I enjoy but he is never able to do as his skin could be considered transparent. I had to take him up on this offer! After the pool, by the time I was showered and ready to go, it was about 3:00 in the afternoon. I still needed to head to Home Depot for some ball chain for this project, so I hustled out the door.

I imagined my trip to Home Depot taking 5 minutes at the most, which never is the case. After wandering around the aisles for about 15 minutes, I finally caved in to ask an associate if they sold ball chain. To my surprise, they did not, but he recommended Michael’s. As I shop at Michael’s on a very frequent basis, I knew they would not have what I was looking for, but had to stop there for something else on my list anyhow.

So here I am at Michael’s, not finding what I need, but am finding about 23948790345 other projects I want to start. SHOW SOME SELF CONTROL GIRL! I forced myself to put down everything except the adhesive I came in there for and hurried home. It was then time for me to make dinner and clean up my mess I made (even before starting a project!) and knew that a project was needed to be cut from my list. Buh-bye ball-chain necklace! See you once I have the supplies.

Finally, around 8:00 p.m. I was able to start my first project, these adorable hairbows. I decided to make them in Michigan State colors as they will come in handy for football season. I was using Liquid Thread to hold the center ribbon, so as they were drying, I began my next “simple” project.

The tutorial for these flip-flops looked so simple! I had an extra pair of Old Navy flip-flops that I had received for free, things were falling into place! Everything except when I first tried to knot the fabric, the fabric was fraying so bad. Instead of the “Those shoes are so cute!” looks, I would have received looks of horror and “Why is she wearing those?!”. I hulled out my trusty sewing machine and decided to turn the strips of fabric into tubes. Once I finally had my fabric tubes completed, the only thing left was to tie a few knots and glue those babies up and I would be good to go!

Only… that didn’t happen. As I was finishing up my second flip-flop, I snipped the tip of my left pinky with my fabric shears. It wasn’t a huge cut or a deep cut, but it did make a whole lot of blood. I rushed over to the kitchen and was able to stop it from bleeding. After it was all clean and covered with a Miss Piggy band-aide, I started to feel queasy. All of the sudden I was shaking uncontrollably, sweating profusely, and seeing a whole bunch of black spots. My knight in shining amour, Danny, was able to keep me calm and focused on anything other than how I was feeling. I was able to keep my consciousness and did eventually feel better, but I knew my crafting was done for the night.

Sunday I was able to do the finishing touches on the two projects I started and started my third, and all the sudden it was time for bed! Between cleaning, groceries, and laundry, there isn’t time for much else. What’s a girl to do? Completing two out of four crafts will have to do. After all, there is always next weekend!

When I was finally able to turn off the waterworks, I had a blast. I was very lucky to have my boyfriend join me for this wedding, along with each and every one of my Delta Gamma friends who are scattered across the country.  It was so fun to see all my friends and cut a rug on the dance floor. All in all, it was the best wedding I have been to and cannot wait for more of my friends to get married.

Who wouldn’t cry at this?!!?

As part of my official “Bridesmaid” title, I was in charge of making the gift bow and ribbon bouquet. With all my traveling back and forth from Michigan, the only chance I had to make this bouquet was Friday… mostly in the car… right before the rehearsal. YIKES! Talk about cutting it close. Now, I have seen these in action before, and had a general idea as to how I would make it, but could not find an actual “how-to”. Once I began putting it together, I was very happy with how it turned out (and how quick it actually was to make!). In the case you are struggling with making a ribbon bouquet as well, I will share my findings here!

When I first thought about how I would make this, my strategy involved a hot glue gun and an intrinsic design.  This all changed when my mom informed me these bouquets originally were used not only at the rehearsal, but also to give ribbons to the newlyweds to use for future presents. Scrap that idea.

Here is what I used for the ribbon bouquet:

Millions of ribbons from Bridal shower gifts

4 feet of tulle

1 Paper plate

1 Toilet paper tube

2 Pearl head pins

1. Set aside two or three long, thick ribbons to wrap the handle with.
2. Cut plate down the middle, stopping at the center. Cut a circle out about two inches in diameter.
3. Overlap plate edges to form a slight cone shape, staple. This will form the base of the plate. The “cone” tip will point down.
4. Pull one edge of the tulle through the hole on the inside on the plate. While holding that end, loop the other end of the tulle from the outside of the plate back up through hole. Repeat the looping around the plate until you have about five inches hanging when holding the tulle at the bottom of the plate (I was able to create four loops and spread out the tulle to provide the coverage I was looking for). Keep holding the ends! 
5. Taking one ribbon, tie a bow in the middle with the two ends hanging. Pull the ends through the hole. If you have a long ribbon, tie ribbons in concession as seen below. Leave about eight inches of ribbon to form a handle.
6. Repeat with all ribbons, still holding the ends at the base of the plate.
7. If you have curling ribbon clusters, pull the ribbon through the base while allowing the curls to spill over the base.
8. If you have bows, tape a safety pin on the back of the bow. Pin the bow onto a ribbon.
9. To form the handle, pull all ribbon ends through the toilet paper tube, pushing the tube as close to the base of the plate as possible. You should have some ends dangling down the tube.
10. Wrap the ends of ribbons around the toilet paper tube.
11. Taking one of the long ribbons you set aside, as tightly as possible circle the tube with the ribbon. Keep the ribbon flat. Repeat with other ribbons if desired.
12. To finish the bouquet, take the end of the ribbon and fold under about two inches. Pin the top and bottom of the ribbon as seen below.
13. Give to the happy bride to be!

Congratulations again to Cat and Karl!

She Creates

 @wojcik  energy-scape

Everything man-made was once in someone’s imagination, a dream that was the basis of creation. Look around at every thing you have and know that it all came from some one’s mind. This is proof of our power to create. We create all sorts of ‘things’ from art to nuclear weapons. We can create a sustainable way of living on Earth — we can live in ways that are benefical and positive for everyone. We can if we want to. If we have the will. No one else can do it for us. We must do it for ourselves. We must recognize that we are living organisms on a planet where everything is interconnected with such complexity that is more than the mapping of DNA. We can make life better for every living creature–human and non-human on Earth. Why don’t we? What’s stopping us? We can imagine. We can dream. We can create.

  Do we want more than war, self-destruction, pollution and extinction? The choice is ours.

So do we create to serve our egos? Do we create to serve the abstract concept of ART? Do we create to satisfy the abyss of the appetite of the marketplace? Why do we create ART in all its strange and wonderful styles and forms? Why do we compose music? Why are poems written to lovers far away? Why are songs sent out across time and place to woe women—and men? What end is served by the creative process? Is this an indulgence in the fantasy of being ‘god-like’? Are we conveying the creative energy of the infinite universe? Why do we create?

Is it all Art for Art’s sake when all is said and done? Or is it just another way to go insane while  trying to survive in a world that simultaneously touts great art while telling emerging artists they’re quite mad for thinking of living for creating art because there’s no profit in it? 

If art has no real place or power  or worth in mainstream cultures then why have artists of all genres been imprisoned and executed around the world and throughout history? How terrifying can a poet like Osip Mandelstam possibly be? What is the threat embodied in the Russian masterpiece of social and political satire, The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakow? What is the power of Picasso’s La Gurenica?  And what does the audience learn from Timberlake Wertenbaker’s play, “Our Country’s Good”? Many people read the diary of a young girl, a girl who probably gave not a fig for who might read her words in regard to ‘art’ or anything else. Yet, Anne Frank’s ‘words’ –written without intention of informing or influencing anyone–express a need to create as evidenced by their existence.

Why do we write?

Why do we blog?

Why do we paint, draw, photograph?

Why do we create?

She Creates

@eva wojcik

She Creates

Pens sakura/other on 130 lb watercolor paper  

13” x 17” original  

  Strathmore 400 series   archival   acid free   rough     

ink-pens    Sakura    Faber Castell     ‘other’  

Currenntly on display at Crepes on the Square, Liberty, MO. 

www.crepesonthesquare.com