Sarah Elliot and husband Hamish, are the designing + making duo behind the vibrant and talented brand, The Easel and the Bass Violin. Lovely clever people, making LOVELY intriguing things, that’s what we’re all about at the market, and this newly formed business partnership is producing some beautiful products, perfect for special Christmas presents we think!
Sarah first studied Fine Art Painting at the Victorian College of the Arts, winning the Graduate Prize and went on to work in set design, winning the overall Melbourne Fringe Festival Award with a group of artists, installation and fine art. She loves the creative side of her work, handmaking everything for The Easel and the Bass Violin, while still spending as much time as she can with husband Hamish and their two children who are home schooled. Hamish applies his skills in the field of intricate paper cutting, or scherenschnitte, and the innovative use of silver in recreating antique lace designs. He is also Double Bassist who is a strong feature of the Tasmanian contemporary jazz scene being a working bassist for around ten ensembles.
When and why did Easel & the Bass Violin begin?
I have been designing and making my own dresses since I was young. Around a year ago I made some dresses and fabric brooches, and more than a few times people stopped me in the street to find out where I'd got "that beautiful dress, brooch etc.." so I thought: Hmmm maybe I should pursue this? Once I started designing and doing markets, Hamish started working with intricate paper cutting, and silver work. I'm also an oil painter hence the Easel and Hamish plays Double Bass hence the Bass Violin.
What are your creations inspired by?
We spend a lot of time out and about in the stunning Tasmanian landscape with our two beautiful kids, we find it so inspiring here. We are inspired by our favourite artists; Frida Khalo, Rothko, the Arts and Crafts movement and the writings of Ruskin as well as the Beautiful Jazz and Mininmalist music that we listen to and that Hamish plays. We are very inspired by our dear and creative friends here in Hobart who make it all possible!
What’s your favourite thing about what you do?
We love being creative! And we love making everything from scratch; being hands-on through every step of the process, from designing to making to then selling and getting to meet the person who's buying. We love making unique handmade items that are affordable and special.
Favourite colours/materials to work with?
We love working with rich bright colours and natural materials, we use a lot of silk, silver, vintage fabrics, vintage buttons and beautiful ribbon.
