With her artwork now showcased in leading interior stores Jumbled Online and Greenhouse Interiors, Jade has evolved into an established artist, collaborating with beautiful Australian brands in the fashion and lifestyle space – all while juggling motherhood and everything in between. Let’s dive in…
Can you tell us a little about your background and your connection to the Illawarra?
I grew up in England. After graduating University, I enjoyed an exciting career as a fashion designer working in both London and Sydney. This included brands like Jigsaw, Wayne Cooper and smaller Australian fashion houses. However, my husband’s job was moved to the Illawarra, so we left Sydney for the beautiful South Coast.
Can you share what led you to becoming an artist?
After freelancing in fashion design from down in the Illawarra, I became pregnant with twins (and soon realised that commuting to Sydney would not be feasible). I pondered on the idea of going back to my painting roots, as this would allow me to work around my young family from home. I opened a small stall at The Collective Beat in Gerringong, selling prints and artwork which were well received. An email from Pip at Jumbled Online completely shifted the direction of my business, as she asked to stock my art in her store. Jumbled Online has a huge following and it exposed my art to a wider audience. From this, Greenhouse Interiors reached out and the rest is history! I built a website and started painting full time.
"I am always taking photos while on my walks - this could be anything from what people are wearing to shells at the beach or flowers peering through fences."
What have you learnt on your journey of entrepreneurship so far?
I feel that I am busier than ever before, as when you’re a solo business owner you have to wear all the hats. From admin to marketing and finance, a lot of my time is spent behind the scenes running a business (rather than just painting). You also have to learn things that are out of your comfort zone in order to grow a successful brand – like the tech side to knowing your numbers. As a mum of three young boys, I’ve also had to get better at compartmentalising work and life. This looks like finding little pockets of serenity to get in the flow of creativity (while ignoring the chaos that is sometimes around me!). There is also a balance between using both sides of the brain (creative and analytical), which I am constantly having to switch between in my business.
Tell us where you find inspiration for your artwork?
I am always taking photos while on my walks – this could be anything from what people are wearing to shells at a beach or flowers peering through fences. With my fashion background, I get a lot of inspiration from clothing and colour combinations in prints and textiles,. I love to flick through style magazines to keep up with interior and fashion trends.
What is the creative process when collaborating with other brands?
I feel so grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to partner with some amazing brands in Australia. Some highlights include a linen range with Greenhouse Interiors, fashion ranges for Bohemian Traders and Peter Bill, a picnic wear collection for Picnic Season and my biggest pinch-me-moment to date – a bedding range for Adairs.
The design process can vary between brands, either they will take an existing print that I have already created, or I’ll be asked to paint an exclusive print for the brand. From this, each business will present their vision, and I have some input into the final concept. However, I trust the established brands to take direction, as they know what sells and what their customers want.
Can you share what’s ahead this year for you both professionally and personally?
I’m really looking forward to pushing myself outside of my comfort zone, by delving into painting landscapes and hopefully seeing my work in different mediums. There are also some exciting collaborations in the pipeline (watch this space!). Personally, I want to start planning a road trip with the family and travel to different countries to experience their unique culture. Top of the wish list is Vietnam.
You can explore more of Jade Fisher’s stunning work at:
Available locally at Ellow Creative in Berry or visit adairs.com.au/collections/jade-fisher
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