Tuesday 21st February 2012, 17.28
In November we told you about our new Art & Design Print department on the fourth floor. This year the collection has continued to grow with the introduction of Emma Cowlam, a Chelsea Art School textile graduate whose work is both prize-winning and internationally exhibited.
“Emma is so talented, and her success is in not over complicating the work and sticking true to her design style. We’re thrilled to be stocking her work.” Michelle Alger, Buyer for Home, Liberty
As her gorgeous prints arrived in store, we caught up with Emma to find out more about her unique illustrative style…
How would you describe your work?
My work comprises of hand stitched and hand drawn illustrations, often figurative, on paper. Each illustration takes on a very strong and definite sense of its own identity. They are heavily inspired by my daily life and the images I see around me, becoming a visual record of my everyday.
How did your personal style evolve?
I graduated from Chelsea Art School in July 2009 having studied for a BA in Textile Design. I chose to study at Chelsea as not only did they offer a fantastic course in London but there was also the opportunity to complete a 5 month exchange placement at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan during the second year, which luckily I was successfully awarded a place on. Whilst in New York I was able to take various classes other than those related specifically to textile design, of which illustration was one. Having always been passionate about drawing and image, the foundation of all my design work, I was truly inspired by this class and spent my time whilst in New York concentrating on developing and refining my illustrative style. The tutor of my class was truly wonderful, continually encouraging me to create a beautiful and captivating image. She advised us to use mediums to draw with that we were not familiar with and were not traditionally thought of as drawing materials. With textiles being my background I obviously had lots of thread! I feel so fortunate that I am still in contact with her now and she continues to inspire me.
Where do you look for inspiration?
I get inspiration from all over the place. I might sit and draw in a café in my sketchbook or sometimes I see an image in a magazine and straight away I just have to draw it. I buy a lot of magazines and seem to spend my life tearing our pages of images which I keep to illustrate. I can’t define precisely what it is that makes me captivated by an image; it might be the clothing and its detailing or the context that the figure is in. I am very selective though and if I am not immediately drawn to an image I don’t select it. My favourite illustrations that I have done are where I have turned the page and my heart has done a little jump at how much I am inspired by the image. For me each image that I am drawn to conjures up a little story in my head – it’s almost as if I know all about them and their lives, when really they are just my imaginings.
Do you have a favourite print or one with a particular story behind it?
I have 2 ultimate favourites in my portfolio. One is ‘NY Bike Lovers’ and the other is ‘Saturday Morning Market’. I particularly like ‘NY Bike Lovers’ as it captures such a moment in both the image and reminds me so fondly of the hot summer I spent living in Manhattan in 2010. The image for the illustration was printed in a newspaper which was found abandoned on a subway train. The other illustration is ‘Saturday Morning Market’. It is of a girl who has an entire life in my imagination and one which I want to be living! She lives in a beautifully shabby London mews house located along a cobbled street lined with geraniums of clashing colours in terracotta pots and enjoys nothing more than pottering around London on gloriously sunny mornings.
What’s your favourite place in London?
My favourite places in London tend to be places that are very well known, many museums and galleries etc. I particularly like The Mall and St James’s Park with its rental deck chair system that is great on a summer afternoon and then to hide from the sun you can walk to the big bookshop in Trafalgar Square and browse the books for hours.
What do you love about Liberty?
I love everything about Liberty! I love the historic old building with its iconic Tudor stripes. I love the old staircases and wooden panelling which continually reminds me of the grandeur of my old boarding school. I love the range of homeware products that Liberty stock and I will one day buy for my very own mews house. I love the scarves, of which I one day hope to own many. And mostly I love the way that Liberty always feels so lovely and cosy on a cold winter day in London.
Where would you most love to see one of your pieces hanging?
In a house with a studio of my very own which of course would be the beautifully shabby London mews house of ‘Saturday Morning Market’!
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Sunday 1st January 2012, 11.30
FORECAST 2012: SIGNS OF THE ZODIAC
by Amy Zerner & Monte Farber
The knowledge we gain based on the study of astrology can help us understand ourselves, plan our lives and understand those we love. But we should remember that astrology does not mean that our lives are set in stone. There will always be an element of free will that is part of the equation. As Paracelsus once said, “The stars incline; they do not compel.”
My husband Monte Farber and I have written many best-selling books and oracles about astrology, tarot and alchemy, so I feel I am uniquely qualified to come up with a special creative take on a line of astrology jewelry. I am also a couture fashion designer, and so have combined these two talents into one with my Astrology Necklace Collection.
I drew my knowledge of the 12 zodiac signs from my 35-year study of the subject, and, along with my designer’s eye, created a special line of talismans. I channeled the powerful energy of the specific traits of each sign into both drawings and words, making my pendants reversible, to wear either way.
Here are our special messages for all 12 signs for 2012. We wish you lots of love, light and laughter for the New Year and beyond!
ARIES – COURAGE: March 21 to April 20
The symbol for Aries is the headstrong Ram. Each spring the desire to mate and stake his claim to his territory drives the Ram to display his bravery by butting heads with his competitors. After a few times, the one who can handle the headache and hasn’t given up is the winner. People born under the sign of Aries share a lot in common with their symbol, the Ram. They are willing to butt heads with those they think are standing in their way. Sometimes, they will give up if they do not get their own way quickly enough. Like the Ram, Aries are brave explorers, headstrong pioneers who always strive to seek out new experiences. Their fiery, assertive, and courageous natures are full of charm and charisma.
The lesson for Aries is that they must learn the hardest part of how to be brave. No Aries wants to think that they are letting fear stop them. However, since Aries are learning what it takes to be an uncompromising individual, they are, in effect, learning all the various aspects of what it means to be brave. Aries are more afraid of being afraid than they are afraid of any actual person, situation or thing. This is the central challenge for all born under the sign Aries.
2012: You will be both restless and more ready for action than you’ve ever been but almost all of the actions you’re ready for (and already in, for that matter) require the participation of at least one other person. All Aries must now calm down and realize that everyone is not like them. This year IS the time for you to do great things, but you have to “make haste slowly.” Be ready for some happy surprises, too.
TAURUS – HARMONY: April 20 to May 21
The symbol for Taurus is the strong and determined Bull. Those who can cope with anything that gets in their way display the determined, steady, and methodical personality of the sign Taurus. People born under the sign of Taurus share a lot in common with their symbol, the Bull. Though they are usually patient and gentle, when pushed too far, Taurians can become like a bull tormented by a toreador’s cape. Angry or not, they are so set on their goal that they can see little or nothing else. Beautiful art, music and good food are important to a Taurus, as this sign is ruled by Venus.
If a Taurian really wants to possess what they desire, they must learn to include in their plan to achieve their goal at least some room for flexibility and change because sometimes the best way to get what they want is to modify and adjust their plan of attack to the circumstances in which they find themselves. It is not enough to be a stubborn bull if you want to be a successful one.
2012: Big forces may be aligning in ways that will challenge your purpose, but even if you could be in the room with them as they plot against you, you’d realize that the best thing you can do now to deal with their nefarious plans is be your kind, patient, practical Taurus self – that’ll get ‘em! This is a time when you can actually make some amazing and transformational changes to your purpose in life. Whatever you do, it will be well-done.
GEMINI – CONNECT: May 22 to June 22
Many thousand years ago, the ancient sages were wise to pick as the symbol for Gemini a pair of twins. For it is as if within them there are actually two different people with two different sets of values and opinions–maybe more. In fact, Geminis are legendary for functioning best when they have two or more things to do at the same time. Those born under the sign Gemini are among the best communicators of information, especially things that they have heard and their opinions. Yet, though they love to connect, speak clearly and put their point across, they are often misunderstood.
Geminis love to be up on the latest things and they try their best to know something about everything. Geminis are very curious, and think that if they only had the time and access to enough information, they could actually come to know everything. Nobody can give the appearance of knowing everything better than a Gemini. Though sometimes, they may find themselves arguing the exact opposite position of the one they held yesterday.
2012: Gemini people will be able do many things to benefit them and those they care about this year. They can make plans for the future, bring the future to life, be disciplined in a way that doesn’t depress them, and be optimistic. Be your usually communicative, brisk self, trying your best to know all the ins and outs, and if you find yourself obsessing about something, write it down and be done with it for a couple of days at least before you make a big change.
CANCER – PROTECT: June 22 to July 23
Those born under the astrological sign Cancer are well known for their ability to nurture and protect others. They are especially sensitive to the ways people communicate their feelings and can be easily affected when there are bad feelings affecting those they care about. In fact, learning about feelings and the moods they produce are an important part of being a Cancer. In astrology, the Moon is considered a planet and associated with the sign Cancer. The Moon’s ever-changing shape and its effect on the constantly shifting ocean tides is like our ever-changing moods.
When they feel emotionally secure there is no one who is more giving then a Cancer. However, when they feel emotionally insecure, they are totally unable to give and this can confuse those who have come to depend on them. Being shy, especially at those vulnerable times, a Cancerian would be reluctant to tell anyone of their needs for fear that those who they care for would let them down. A Cancerian would be able to forgive a person who was unable to be there for them at a critical time, but they would never forget what had happened.
2012: You may try to make drastic changes that are essentially positive but which can only be done by gunning your engine full speed ahead and all the while knowing that you are going to be brought at times to a screeching halt. Progress will be made in fits and starts. Keeping in mind that it’s your purpose and vitality being affected when you feel stalled, so give yourself all the help you can get to keep yourself calm and centered.
LEO – LOVE: July 23 to August 23
Leo is the sign of the creative organizers of the zodiac. Practically no one is as good as they are at recognizing the solution to a problem and organizing the means to solve it. It is this ability that gives rise to Leo’s reputation as a great leader. Like all leaders, most Leos feel more comfortable when they are telling others what has to be done rather than taking care of the routine details themselves. They get annoyed with themselves for this trait, but not for long, because Leos like themselves a lot, and need a lot of love and affection from others. Often they put themselves where there is so much that needs to be done and they associate themselves with the right group of people so that their creative input is always welcome.
The symbol for Leo is the strong and proud male lion, a most appropriate symbol. Not only is a group of lions referred to as a “pride” of lions, but also the importance of personal pride to those born during the time of Leo cannot be overstated. They would not want to be connected to anyone or anything that they did not feel was up to their high personal standards. No one knows how to live as royally as Leos do. When they learn how to accept help and to delegate their authority, then they can show the world how to really live and love the good life.
2012: No matter what Leo people will be going through, we know it because Leo is the sign of demonstration, an act which includes acting, display, representation, and generally “not hiding your light under a bushel.” You have a very good chance of succeeding at bringing positive newness into your life. This can be a lucky time. Be present for those who need you because they really need you to be present for them.
VIRGO – ENERGY: August 23 through September 22
The shafts of wheat held by the strong young woman represent Virgo’s connection with the Earth; this is key because Virgo is an Earth sign. The element of Earth symbolizes logic, dependability, and a sense of duty to those who are considered valuable and worthy. People born during this time are energetic, reliable and responsible. They have their feet on the ground and possess a practical gift for understanding the material world. The wheat that Virgo holds is also symbolic of the harvest—they are interested in food, health and service.
Virgo is the astrological sign associated with the myriad details of life. Virgos like to get things done. It is as if they are driven to perform useful acts to the best of their ability at all times, no matter how big or small the task. Virgos are very careful and methodical in everything they do because they value order and neatness. When involved with people or situations that are messy or disorganized, they will probably find themselves irritable and unable to apply themselves to the task at hand in their customarily efficient manner.
2012: It’s up to you, either you can worry less or your worries can become your best worries ever, true works of art, masterpieces of the art of tearing something apart in the hope of fixing it. You may fix it, but it will never be the same. If you’ve been longing to do some remodeling, either on your home or on yourself, this year would be a good time to do so. Pay attention to details.
LIBRA – BALANCE: September 23 to October 23
Librans want to learn how to develop their judgment and become the best competitor for the finer things in life. Libras hate anything they consider not up to their standards and only want to be surrounded by the best. Perhaps this is why Libras are such an interesting mixture of refined judgment and fierce competitiveness. Librans have a natural affinity with the unseen, intuitive side of life. With the exceedingly rare and keen perception characteristic of the sign Libra, there is no human attainment beyond their grasp.
Librans must avoid letting their tendency to look for the equal correctness of the opposite of what they are being told influence them too strongly. They will gain no points for coming up with an argument to the information being offered. This is not a contest between what they think and what this book says. They have to suspend their tendency to argue with what they are being told, as they are willing to fight for justice.
2012: The symbol for the Sign of Libra is the scales of balance. Libras are always looking to achieve balance. Libra people don’t just love beauty and balance; they put their ideas to work for it. The planet Saturn entered Libra on July 21, 2010, and will move slowly through the Sign until October 5th, 2011. Librans might not be too pleased when they find themselves unable to do their thing as beautifully or neatly or elegantly as they would like to. Time to let go of perfectionism. Get lots of rest.
SCORPIO – PASSION: October 23 to November 23
Scorpio is the master detective of the zodiac. If there’s something or someone Scorpios wants to know about, there is nothing and no one who can prevent them from discovering the hidden truth. It is as if they feel compelled to know all the secrets just in case they need to use them to prove how powerful they are. When it comes to their own secrets, Scorpios are equally skilled at keeping them from others. In this way they prevent others from having power over them. They will rarely volunteer information for the same reason. Power in all its forms is one of the biggest issues for Scorpios to deal with. A true Scorpio is powerful and passionate.
When they turn their efforts towards self-control, the influence they have on both others and the world around them seems to be without bounds. It is as if the best way for them to control a situation is to be in control of them selves. Scorpios must avoid their tendency to test others against the most extreme of hypothetical circumstances. Their intensity is such that other people can’t believe that they really mean what they are saying. Scorpios are often misunderstood because of the intensity of their passion.
2012: Scorpios just want to know the bottom line: what’s going to happen to me, for good or ill, and what can I do about it? OK, fair enough. You can make big changes. This year you can restore and resurrect and be reassured and reassure others. In fact, you can convince others of the rightness of your words, plans, and actions. This is a great time if you need to persuade someone to change their mind and to advocate for your projects. Feel your power.
SAGITTARIUS – LUCK: November 23 to December 22
Those born under the sign of Sagittarius have a love of travel, animals, the great outdoors, natural healing, and all things foreign. They are the philosopher teachers of the zodiac and without this vital function each generation would be forced to start from scratch without the accumulated wisdom of the ages to guide them. Sagittarians not only keep the torch of learning alive, they actively seek out knowledge and the wisdom to use it properly. They are interested only in the ultimate truth because, otherwise, it would not be worth knowing and teaching to others.
Sagittarians have a reputation for being blunt. Sagittarians feel that anyone who is telling the truth should be able to defend their position against any question, even if their question is totally tactless and without regard for social customs. Sagittarians are in a hurry and want to keep traveling, learning, and spreading what they’ve learned. They don’t have time to waste beating around the bush. Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, rules them.
2012: The Uranus in Aries is trine to your Sun, a very good thing, unless you refuse to get outside and get in nature and some fresh air. Trines are great and this one could bring you great out-of-the-blue luck. Preparation meeting opportunity is how some people define luck. It’s time for Sagittarians to be the Philosopher King and remember “He who would lead must follow all.” Write down all your ideas.
CAPRICORN – REAL: December 22 to January 21
A mountain goat symbolizes Capricorn. The mountain goat is tireless as it makes its way to the tops of mountain after mountain. Most Capricorns are equally tireless in their efforts to get to the top of their respective profession. Having respect is as important to them as is living in wealth and style, yet another way they gain the respect of the in crowd. The fish’s tail on the Capricorn image symbolizes their spirituality. Capricorn people have very deep and real emotional needs that can slow them down considerably or even stop them in their tracks.
Once they realize that it is up to them to make something of themselves, they display a kind of energy that can overcome almost any obstacle. When Capricorns start on the road to success, their persistence and ability to focus on a goal enables them to succeed and to become authority figures in their chosen field. If they can do what has to be done to make their dreams real and maintain a sense of humor to help them get through the difficult times.
2012: Capricorn people want to be respected by those they respect. So with Pluto in your Sign, it is like the Lord of Judgment is there to echo any self-criticism that you might indulge yourself with. Every Capricorn has a power struggle going on within them all the time. Saturn squaring your Sun in Capricorn brings to you the kind of test that you like the most, a chance to prove your worth. Don’t screw it up!
AQUARIUS – FRIEND: January 21 to February 20
Aquarians, being concerned for the good of all, are inspired to invent new solutions to society’s problems. They are the mad scientists and absent minded professors of the zodiac. To do this requires a freethinking mind, unfettered by tradition or fear of disturbing the status quo. Aquarians learn from the past to change what they find distasteful in the present, for by doing that they create the future they envision. This is what inspires them in the first place to come up with solutions.
It can be said that an Aquarius is “a citizen of the world.” This statement is true in its literal as well as figurative concept because Aquarians are interested in people no matter where they live. Any plan that makes for better living has your approval. Your philosophy of life is to be a good friend to all who need and can appreciate your sincere devotion. If you are an Aquarius, you are capable of doing more for others than you are for yourself. You are interested in the betterment of conditions for human beings everywhere, regardless of origin or politics.
2012: Most people think that Aquarius is a water sign because it’s symbol is the person with the jug pouring out water for all. This symbolizes their desire to quench the thirst of humanity. With Uranus, your ruling planet, making a sextile to your Aquarius Sun, you feel that things are crazy and destabilized and you don’t know what the heck is going on. Aquarians LIKE it when things are crazy and unpredictable because you are, too, and so it helps you feel connected to society. Enjoy inventing, experimenting and discovering.
PISCES: February 20 to March 21
Pisces is the last sign of the zodiac. Because it is the last of the twelve signs, it contains a bit of all of them. When they take the time and investigate a little, they often realize that they are literally picking up on the feelings of others. This is the explanation of why Pisces people are so easily able to understand how other people are feeling. Pisces is associated with both empathy and telepathy. This natural ability to be invisibly connected to those around them and those around the world is both the blessing and the curse of all Pisceans.
When they turn their sensitivity to the real world, Pisceans have the capacity to make incredible amounts of money in business ventures. If you think that seems unlikely given Pisces’ reputation for dreaminess and escapism, remember that as the last sign, Pisces contains a bit of all the other ones. They have the ability to achieve an overview of any business situation and their sensitivity to others enables them to know how others will feel and act. That enables them to make accurate predictions that tell them how to act to reap the greatest rewards.
2012: This year it’s time to ratchet up your game a couple of notches so that you are helping an organization, a union, a club. Band together. Get political. Of course, it’s obvious that we all have to get political now, but now is a good time for us to listen to the wisdom of Pisces, the last sign of the zodiac. Because it’s last, it contains a bit of all the other signs within it. That’s the level of empathy that you can activate now, the Universal Human.
© Amy Zerner & Monte Farber
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