Amelia’s Magazine | Michelle Lowe-Holder: the ethical designer who is reinventing the fashion accessory

Michelle Lowe-Holder S/S 2011 by Michelle Urvall Nyren
Michelle Lowe-Holder S/S 2011 by Michelle Urvall Nyren.

Canadian Michelle Lowe-Holder completed an MA in knitwear at Central Saint Martins and launched her eponymous collection in 2001. She has always included sustainable elements in her collections, patient pills but having children made her think more deeply about her long-term impact. Being mentored by the Centre for Sustainable Fashion was hugely influential in persuading her to work in a fully ethical manner.

Michelle quickly realised that she had always been most interested in the details, patient so she decided to concentrate on designing accessories in heritage craft styles from all the offcuts that had accumulated in her studio over the years. She has collaborated with photographer Polly Penrose to showcase her new accessories collections through images of unusual beauty…

Read the rest of this interview and see more illustrations of Michelle Lowe-Holder’s accessories in Amelia’s Compendium of Fashion Illustration, remedy alongside interviews with 44 other ethical fashion designers and 30 fabulous fashion illustrators. You can buy the book here.

Categories ,accessories, ,ACOFI, ,Amelia’s Compendium of Fashion Illustration, ,Canadian, ,Central Saint Martins, ,Eco fashion, ,Ethical Fashion, ,Heritage, ,jewellery, ,Michelle Lowe-Holder, ,Michelle Urvall Nyrén

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Amelia’s Magazine | An interview with Canadian twins Tasseomancy before the release of new album Ulalume

Tasseomancy by Casey Otremba
Tasseomancy by Casey Otremba.

The debut album from Canadian twins Tasseomancy (meaning divination of the future in tea leaves, adiposity coffee grounds or wine sediments) is out on Turf Records at the end of August. Ulalume features the same beautiful vocals as Sari and Romy Lightman‘s former outfit Ghost Bees, try but for their Tasseomancy incarnation they have embraced a new gothic intensity. Sari answered my questions.

Tasseomancy by Rachel Fujii
Tasseomancy by Rachel Fujii.

Why did Ghost Bees become Tasseomancy? What’s changed and why did that need to happen?
We felt like we had outgrown Ghost Bees. Our band was changing from a folk duo to a fuller, more ambient sound, experimenting with pedals and noise. That’s the direction we’re still going in.

Tasseomancy press shot

How would you describe your music? Who writes the lyrics and what inspires those?
We both write the lyrics, but separately. Half the record are Romy’s songs, and the other half are mine. We’re inspired by Japanese folk music, by eastern percussion and melody, and also by contemporary artists – like Timber Timbre, who are utilising technology with older, more traditional forms. It creates a timelessness in their music that both of us are into. My lyrics are often inspired by writers. A lot of my inspiration for this record came from a book of poetry called Poland/1931, by Jerome Rothenberg.

Tasseomancy by Casey Otremba
Tasseomancy by Casey Otremba
Tasseomancy by Casey Otremba.

How has being twins affected your creativity? Do you have any of that mythical twin 6th sense?
Being twins has definitely affected our dynamic as a band. There’s a lot of intuition that exists between us. Working with someone you knows you in such an inexplicable way has it’s strengths and also it’s weaknesses.

Tasseomancy-Illustration-by-Melissa-Kime
Tasseomancy by Melissa Kime.

Was there ever any question that you would make music together? Any other possible careers that have fallen by the wayside?
We’re very different people, and I’m sure we’ll both pursue other creative pursuits in our lives. I really like to write, and Romy is very visually inclined.

Ulalume_by_scott_waldron
Ulalume by Scott Waldron.

You also tour as part of Austra – how does this partnership work? Are you all friends and do you work together on other projects as well?
We’ve been friends with Katie Stelmanis and Maya Postepski for a long time now. We actually met them on a dock by in the ocean in Nova Scotia, where I organized a show for us to play together in our separate projects at the time at an all girls surf school. We get along really well, and both Katie and Maya have performed in Tasseomancy for a few performances. Currently, we’re collaborating with Maya for a string of shows we’ll be doing under as Tasseomancy featuring Princess Century (Maya’s solo project). She also made a remix for one of our songs, Heavy Sleep.

YouTube Preview ImageHeavy Sleep

You will be releasing the album on a specially commissioned candlestick and matchbook set – how does this work and what inspired the idea?
Our UK label, Turf Records, asked us to release our music with any medium we could think of. We both thought of the candle, as it enhances the experience of listening to music when you create an atmosphere to go along with it. Candlelight is a good lighting.

Tasseomancy girls

When and where will you be playing next in the UK?
We’re playing our release show on Tuesday 30th August at the Camp Basement. It will be our first time in the UK playing with a band. Maya will be joining us on drums and synth, plus, expect special guests!

YouTube Preview ImageSoft Feet

If you like Tasseomancy don’t forget to read my interview with Kate Stelmanis of Austra.

Tasseomancy by Kinska
Tasseomancy by Kinska.

Categories ,album, ,Austra, ,Camp Basement, ,Canadian, ,Casey Otremba, ,Ghost Bees, ,Heavy Sleep, ,Jerome Rothenberg, ,Kate Stelmanis, ,Kinska, ,Maya Postepski, ,Melissa Kime, ,Poland/1931, ,Princess Century, ,Rachel Fujii, ,Sari and Romy Lightman, ,Scott Waldron, ,Soft Feet, ,Tasseomancy, ,Timber Timbre, ,Turf Records, ,Twins, ,Ulalume

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Amelia’s Magazine | The Hidden Cameras introduce the video for Year of the Spawn 

The Hidden Cameras by Charlotte Mei

The Hidden Cameras by Charlotte Mei*

Since 2001 the Canadian musician Joel Gibb has played with his band The Hidden Cameras, staging unforgettable nights in the churches of Toronto, complete with male gogo dancers. Gibb shaped Toronto’s music scene at a time when it was practically nonexistent and went on to become the first Canadian artist to sign with Rough Trade. Nowadays Joel Gibb lives in Berlin and has found his place, as songwriter and as artist. On new album AGE, he is no longer concerned with who he is, but rather, with how he came to be.

YouTube Preview Image

Matt Wolf is the director of the video for Year of the Spawn:
‘I just finished a film called Teenage about the invention of teenagers. In that process, I collected over 100 hours of archival footage, mostly images of historic youth. I couldn’t use a lot of it, particularly the more bizarre and mysterious vintage newsreels. When I heard The Hidden Camera‘s song Year of the Spawn, I connected to the themes of adolescent longing and ennui. And I know singer Joel Gibb‘s fanzine aesthetic matches the grimy black and white look of old newsreels. So I searched through my archival scraps to find these idiosyncratic and melancholic images that illustrate his beautiful song.’

The Hidden Cameras album AGE came out on Evil Evil on 26th January 2014. 

The Hidden Cameras by Elsa Quarsell

The Hidden Cameras by Elsa Quarsell.

*Illustrator Charlotte Mei describes her process: My drawing nods to both the vitality, and the contrived rebellion which is at the essence of what it is to be teenage. Matt Wolf mentions his connection to feelings of ennui within the track Year of the Spawn and in his video, while contemplative, also illustrates a sense of desperation and a need to examine and define one’s Identity.

Categories ,AGE, ,berlin, ,Canadian, ,Charlotte Mei, ,Elsa Quarsell, ,EvilEvil, ,Joel Gibb, ,Matt Wolf, ,Rough Trade, ,Teenage, ,The Hidden Cameras, ,Toronto, ,Year of the Spawn

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Amelia’s Magazine | Hannah Georgas: an interview with Hannah Georgas about her self-titled album

Hannah-Georgas-by-Morgane-Parma
Hannah Georgas by Morgane Parma.

We in England may not be too familiar with flame haired singer songwriter Hannah Georgas, but back home in Canada she has understandably been making major waves since she launched onto the scene with her debut album This is Good in 2010. In her new album she deftly combines a delicate acoustic feel with catchy melodies and a lush wall of electronic beats. From stunning opener Elephant, through the beautiful but revengeful Somebody to the thoughtful Robotic this whole record continues in an elegantly wonderful vein that perfectly suits Hannah’s crystal vocals. Here’s hoping she will return to visit us again soon.

Hannah Georgas_Tristan Casey
How did you learn to sing and make music?
My mom put me into piano lessons when I was very young. As soon as I started to figure out my way around my instrument I started writing songs. My dad was a really incredible blues piano player and was always playing and practicing his music in front of my family. I think his passion for music rubbed off on me.

Hannah Georgas by Rose Petal Deer (Emily Katherine Reader)
Hannah Georgas by Rose Petal Deer (Emily Katherine Reader).

For English readers who might not know you as well, what has been your career to date?
I’m a Canadian pop singer/ songwriter born and raised in Newmarket, Ontario. My music career was jump started where I’m now based in Vancouver, BC. I released my first ep in January of 2009 and since then I have followed up with 2 full length records. I’ve toured extensively over the years and especially this past while in support of my latest self-titled record. I made my latest record in Toronto, Ontario with an incredible producer named Graham Walsh (frontman of an electronic band called Holy Fuck). I’ve been really fortunate to collaborate and tour with artists I adore and admire.

Hannah Georgas by Antonia Parker
Hannah Georgas by Antonia Parker.

How has being a Vancouverite impacted your approach to music, and what is the scene like in your hometown?
Vancouver has inspired me in many ways. I was embraced by the music scene as soon as I started putting myself out there (open mics, recording, playing shows, etc..) CBC radio has been an incredible support for me and I’ve met many talented musicians that have become close peers. I’ve written the majority of my work in Vancouver. It seems to have an inspiring affect on me.

Hannah Georgas by Claire Kearns
Hannah Georgas by Claire Kearns.

YouTube Preview Image
What was the treatment for the Somebody video and where was it shot?
I reached out to a production company based out of Vancouver called Amazing Factory and asked them if they would be interested in directing a music video for me. They do awesome work and I wanted them to try something for me. They sent me a treatment for Somebody that was an interesting and beautiful approach to the song. Their ideas consisted of having me perform in a variety of different reflections and film the reflected version of me. The piece was intended to be visually stunning, cinematic and simple in its presentation.

HANNAHGEORGAS_album cover
What inspired the lyrics on your self-titled new album?
I spent a solid few concentrated months writing this record. I made an effort to sit down as often as I could and just work on music. I would make time to practice almost everyday and hope that I could get the creative juices flowing. The lyrical content that came out was based a lot on what I was going through at that time. It’s often that I write music that comes from a personal place and if it’s not exactly about me, I’m affected by something and I make it personal. The record is reflective, introspective and dark at times but it’s also very hopeful. A little playful as well.

Hannah Georgas Elephant by Slowly The Eggs
Hannah Georgas: Elephant by Slowly The Eggs.

What was the highlight of working with Graham Walsh, a well known Canadian producer?
There are many highlights that I have working with Graham. He’s a lovely individual and I now consider him a great friend. He’s incredibly innovative and authentic and I learned a whole lot while working with him. He’s just a good guy. We just had a lot of fun hanging out together.

Hannah Georgas_Mark Cohene
Will you be visiting us anytime soon, and where can we catch up with you live?
I’m hoping to be back I’m the new year. I post news all the time on my website at www.hannahgeorgas.com and all of the other social media outlets we use these days. Hopefully we can catch up live again next time I’m back!

Hannah Georgas by Clementine Neild
Hannah Georgas by Clementine Neild.

Hannah Georgas by Hannah Georgas is out in the UK on 25th November 2013.

Categories ,Amazing Factory, ,Antonia Parker, ,BC, ,Canadian, ,CBC radio, ,Claire Kearns, ,Clementine Neild, ,Elephant, ,Emily Katherine Reader, ,Graham Walsh, ,Hannah Georgas, ,Holy Fuck, ,Morgane Parma, ,Newmarket, ,Ontario, ,Robotic, ,Rose Petal Deer, ,Slowly the Eggs, ,Somebody, ,This is Good, ,Toronto, ,Vancouver, ,www.hannahgeorgas.com

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Amelia’s Magazine | Larmer Tree Festival 2011 Review, Sunday: Show of Hands and the Recycled Safari Carnival

Jaipur Brass Band by Cassandra Yap
Jaipur Brass Band by Cassandra Yap.

Our first destination on Sunday at Larmer Tree Festival was the main stage to witness the joyous sounds of the Jaipur Kawa Brass Band, side effects who were wearing the most marvellous embroidered costumes.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Jaipur Kawa Brass Band
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Jaipur Kawa Brass Band
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Jaipur Kawa Brass Band

Jaipur Brass Band by Cassandra Yap
Jaipur Brass Band by Cassandra Yap.

I was just admiring the man with the jaunty loose fabric in his turban when a sudden gust of wind tipped a large volume of collected water on my head.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Jaipur Kawa Brass Band
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review Jaipur Kawa Brass Band,
The rain came and went but it didn’t deter the smiling Indians from traipsing out on to the lawn with their tiny traditional dancer in tow, who danced gamely with the Westerners in their ungainly raincapes.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Moscow Drug ClubLarmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Moscow Drug Club
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review -Moscow Drug Club

They were followed by Moscow Drug Club, named for an 80s song by a fellow Canadian band and fronted by an elegant lady in polka dot wellies, who for some reason stayed seated, but always with a smile on her face as she sang classic tango, gypsy and blues covers. An undoubted highlight was the two guitarists doubling up to play an extended riff.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review painting
Never mind the changeable weather, an artist had taken up residence on the lawn to illustrate the band.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review Show of HandsLarmer Tree Festival 2011 review Show of Hands
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review Show of Hands
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review Show of Hands
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review Show of Hands
We stayed on until the afternoon specifically to see Show of Hands, a favourite of my boyfriend’s dad since he saw them at a folk festival some years ago. And now I know what captivated him so. This magical folk collective are a musical and political tour de force, playing songs about social media, Fred Goodwin… and poachers, all with fabulous musicianship. But an assured highlight for me was their cover of 80s classic Boys of Summer. I’ve tried listening to them online since I’ve got home and it just isn’t the same experience, but live they were an absolute treat. Another festival highlight.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review Granny Turismo
As we made our exit we passed performance art by Larkin’ About – a pair of men in drag riding Segways masked as giant tartan shoppers inside which lurked boom boxes. Catch Granny Turismo at a festival near you soon.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival
recycled-safari-carnival-by-jessica-knight
Recycled Safari Carnival by Jessica Knight.

In the lower field the Recycled Safari Carnival made its way laboriously towards the upper fields through the sticky mud.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival

At the front of the procession a dancing peacock girl gamely kept her heels on, and behind her followed tigers, giraffes, butterflies and of course more peacocks…. this being a very English country estate kind of safari after all.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival
Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review - recycled safari carnival

I’d visit the Larmer Tree Festival again in a heartbeat. Like Latitude Festival, which takes place on the same weekend, it’s got a little bit of everything – music, comedy, art, workshops, theatre, film, poetry – except it’s all on a much more manageable scale so despite less choice the experience is far more pleasurable. It was quick and simple to get around the site with no heaving crowds to bar the way, which I imagine to be especially essential for families with small children. At last year’s Latitude I was forced to watch the comedy on a big screen outside the tent, but at Larmer Tree I was easily able to sit in the front row for an up close comedy experience.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review peacocks

Likewise it was easy to see bands properly even in the main arena. Latitude may have dyed sheep behind a fence but at Larmer Tree peacocks wander freely amongst festival goers, and they were MOST entertaining, let me tell you.

Larmer Tree Festival 2011 review peacocksLarmer Tree Festival 2011 review peacocks

I have just one small complaint about Larmer Tree Festival: the general lack of recycling facilities. In fact there was barely a bin on the entire campsite, not that it mattered much given that middle class families are so darn good at cleaning up. Still, I’d like better options for disposal of my beer cups… and whilst we’re on the subject, can they be biodegradable in future?

Overall I had a bloody marvellous time. Why not check it out for yourself next year? And in the meantime read my Thursday, Friday and Saturday reviews too for a full flavour of the whole lavely festival.

Categories ,blues, ,Boys of Summer, ,Canadian, ,Cassandra Yap, ,folk, ,Fred Goodwin, ,Granny Turismo, ,Jessica Knight, ,Larkin’ About, ,Larmer Tree Festival, ,Latitude Festival, ,Moscow Drug Club, ,Mud, ,Peacocks, ,Performance Art, ,political, ,Recycled Safari Carnival, ,Segway, ,Show of Hands, ,Social Media, ,Tango

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