There are a few but in this moment, I will say Asia, a place I am dreaming about exploring deeper and the journeys I have taken there, to Japan, India, Myanmar and Thailand continue to give me pause and inspiration, even years later.
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I was searching for something that nodded to the origin of the espadrille and Esparto, the Spanish word for jute, the material that comprises the soles, kept surfacing. I have long been a language student and it felt important to incorporate to create a phrase that could transcend dialogues.
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My usual dinner with the dead answer is Cleopatra but for breakfast, I will say Roshi Joan Halifax, she is a Buddhist teacher and activist. I am fascinated by what I have heard her say about our interrelatedness and empathy.
These cottage industries are links to the histories that they originate from. I often liken textiles to maps and how they can tell the story of a land, a people and its customs. Beyond aesthetics, there is a bonding that happens when you work together in a group with one’s hands. I am inspired by the energy of the creation of this handwork and feel the community building that occurs during these moments has the potential to create social change.
I have a penchant for most tropical varietals but if I had to choose for its physical form, symbol and scent, I would point to hyacinths and jasmine.
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I’ve never had a proper full time job, it’s been freelance for life! I remember just a couple years ago, it wasn’t so stylish to be a free agent but I’m happy to see many industries evolving to it. I am a true believer in the nomadic state of work.
The sense of collaboration and learning the engineering of particular techniques. I am continually in awe of the electric current that runs between the artisan brain and a practiced pair of hands. It is in the innate ability of motion, moved by emotion, and being witness to these processes that really drive my passion for artisan work.