Kari Woo

In 1993 Kari discovered her love of making jewellery literally by accident. While recovering from a snowboarding injury she enrolled in her first jewellery class - it was love at first make! Though she had always collected jewellery through her girlhood she never imagined that she would make it. Now almost two decades later she is still at it and she still loves it. After a few initial classes Kari's beginnings were largely self taught until she returned to school in 1998, receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts [hons] specializing in Jewellery + Metals from the Alberta College of Art + Design in 2003.

Since then she found a second love - collaborating to build small independent arts events and businesses. In 2003 she co-founded the Shiny Fuzzy Muddy Collective of artists and makers based out of Vancouver, B.C. - a group that still works together annually to host one of Vancouver's best curated independent arts + craft events. In 2004 Woo co-founded INFLUX Jewellery Gallery in Calgary which she co-owned and co-piloted with her business partners until March 2011 when they passed the torch on to new owners. 2004 also saw the start of the New Craft Collective - an Alberta based initiative modelled after her successful collaboration in Vancouver. In 2007 she launched Made In Canada: Calgary Artist's Market which supported local artists with a venue to show and sell their works on a monthly basis for the entire year.

During this time she has also been able to develop and maintain her own studio based business where she designs, produces and distributes an independent line of contemporary art jewellery, works closely with clients on custom pieces and occasionally instructs workshops through the ACAD Extended Studies Program.

Her work is notably understated and modern in design but with the use whimsical freehand motifs and the intentional asymmetry of form it is also warm and intriguing. Drawing her influences equally from architectural forms, human dwellings and her observations of nature Kari’s designs reference notions of space - whether they be public or private, external or internal, urban or natural, physical or metaphorical. Her mixed media work has been exhibited in the United States, Europe, South Korea and across Canada; her jewellery designs are available in high-end design boutiques and galleries across the country, online and in select U.S. locations

In 2010 Kari moved to Canmore with her husband where they have burrowed into a cozy little nest which includes her home studio. In early 2011 they became new parents and are embarking on a whole new collaborative project of new proportions… and she still designs and loves to make jewellery.

Frances Felt

Frances is a founding member of the Shiny Fuzzy Muddy Collective. Her work is a strong fusion of her experiences traveling and a utilitarian fashion sensibility. Fashion and function are both equally strong elements in her designs leaving the wearer feeling strong and feminine at once. Just the way we like it, Ladies!

Pemberton textile designer Frances Dickinson’s true love is textile design. After years of traveling the globe and becoming enthralled with the cultural heritage of textiles, she studied at three different Canadian art schools over five years before getting her BFA in textile design from the Alberta College of Art and Design. In 2002, she returned home and opened her business designing fabrics to incorporate into her clothing and accessories.

Her clothes are fun and whimsical, inspired by colour, nature, process and material. Each garment is unique with collage-like detailing hand-picked by the designer. Most of her clothes are adjustable to make fitting all body types easy.

Frances Dickinson’s work has been featured in Toronto Life and Ion Magazine, as well as the Georgia Straight and the Vancouver Province. Frances Felt participates in The Circle Craft Christmas Show (Vancouver), is a founding member of The Shiny Fuzzy Muddy Shows (Vancouver) and has recently co-founded Crafty By Nature (Pemberton).

Erin Dolman Jewellery

Anyone who is a fan of art jewellery in B.C. certainly knows Erin Dolman's unique approach to the medium. She has exhibited her work with the Shiny Fuzzy Muddy show many times and we couldn't possibly tire of her talent and unusual and sometimes rare negotioations of materials that she employs. Find hummingbird feathers mixed with vintage photos or buttons encased in boxes constructed of silver and copper. They are like time capsules or relics from another era, but don't quite equate to anything else you've ever seen. 

Jeweller Erin Dolman was born and raised in Vancouver, but eventually heard the call of the wild pulled up her city roots and now resides in a beautiful cabin in the woods of Roberts Creek, BC, Canada. Erin’s work is designed and created by the artist in her home based studio under the supervision of her Pug-Burl. When not working in her studio Erin is an avid gardener, bird watcher and amateur naturalist and these interests show as a strong influence in her jewellery. A born collector, walks in the woods surrounding her home provide a wealth of natural treasures, which are then incorporated into her one of a kind pieces.

Over the past 12 years Erin has exhibited in numerous exhibitions in both Canada and internationally. In 2004 a craft scholarship enabled her to attend the prestigious Haystack Mountain School of Crafts for a 3 week course with jeweller Marcia MacDonald. Erin has also been the recipient of a number of grants and awards including the Rosen Group’s Niche Award in 2002, one of 5 inaugural BC Creative Achievement Award in 2005, and 1^st place in the brooch category for Lapidary Journals annual Jewellery Arts Awards in 2006.

Nana Fro Textile Art

Mariana Frochtengarten is a Brazilian textile artist. She launched her company Nana Fro Textile Art in 2009, after moving to Vancouver. The artist's hand made creations include objects for the body and the home, carefully produced with the idea of adding beauty to our daily life. This is Mariana's debut at SFM. There isn't enough Beauty in this world so we are happy to host more of it at our upcoming 12th Holiday Sale. The care, love and attention put into this textile work is nothing short of wonderful. It is contemporary and classically feminine. We love it and hope that you do too.

Mariana is particularly captivated by the different kinds of resist dyeing methods in which patterns are constructed by preventing dyes or discharge agents from reaching certain areas of the cloth. In her most recent work she has been exploring elements of Japanese shibori to create a line of natural fiber scarves and children's wearables, as well as a variety of legwear including leggings and tights for children and adults. Indulging in the tactile properties of fiber, all of Mariana's creations can be described as real sensual surfaces composed of rich colours and geometric and organic forms. With a modern flair, the artist brings a contemporary approach to traditional, time-honored techniques.

Morena clothing

Morena is unique, artful, cozy, sophisticated and made with authenticity. Its a been a couple of years since we have been able to host Marcy at SFM, but we finally snagged her and are glad to have her back!

As an art student, Marcy began creating recycled t-shirts as projects; with spray painted stencil collages and drawing imagery with her sewing machine. These projects evolved into deconstructive pieces that housed as sweaters from recycled, vintage sweaters, tweed jackets, lace, doilies, fur and memory trinkets as found objects to personalize each garment. 

Marcy's line grew into Morena - meaning mix of culture or milato in Spanish - a clothing label which gives name and shape to the conglomerated form of cultures she resonates strongly with. Morena represents the women of contemporary times, the sensual blend of nostalgia and the emotions of today’s' female warriors. Morena leaped off the island after becoming one of the three finalists for B.C. Fashion Week's Generation Next competition.  Her first line was created for Spring 2008, shortly thereafter. Morena is now carried in niche stores across Canada where 'handmade' is still sacred.

MaryMary

MaryMary works with stencils.  He is motivated by pervasive mediocrity and his own grand idea of style.  Sometimes he has a sense of humour.  MaryMary is so called, thanks to his sister who used to blister his contrary opinions by announcing that he was, 'such a bloody Mary'. MaryMary makes limited runs from hand cut stencils and is always open to new roads, collaborations or commissions.  He is from Wales and now resides in Squamish, B.C.  His work is a departure from our usual warm and fuzzy but we found it intriguing so wanted to give it a go. We think our patrons will be provoked to see things from a different perspective when they see his work.

Track and Field Designs

Sasha Freeman is the gal behind Track and Field Designs. They offer a charming collection of vintage inspired accessories to protect your modern gadgets.  All of Sasha's work is handmade and silkscreened with animals, bicycles and quaint objects. A first timer with Shiny Fuzzy Muddy, we haven't offered this type of product at our shows before so we are all in for a great treat this weekend!

LAUREN ELGEE Jewellery

Innovative and intelligent Lauren's designs are contemporary with a vintage flair. Equally appealing to book lovers and design aficianados her unique and one of a kind pieces have to be seen in person!

It all began when Lauren was only seven and her aunt Dawne gave her long, blue-beaded earrings that she had made by hand. Though not a girly child she wore them happily, despite the very same aunt laughing at her for wearing such large earrings at such a young age.

As an adult Lauren's interest in art and adornment led her to travel and study extensively. In addition to completing a silversmith course at Central St. Martin's in London, England, Lauren has a degree in Art History from UBC. Her passion for jewellery design led her to complete the Jewellery Art & Design diploma program at Vancouver Community College.

Since graduating 6 years ago, Lauren has created playful and elegant jewellery from a variety of media. Lauren is best known for her one of a kind Storybook earrings, made from vintage illustrations. Women love to wear them and yes, they are big earrings.

Loden Clothing

Charlotte Shea is the mastermind behind Loden Clothing which is a cut and sew clothing line from Victoria, B.C. Since 2007 they have been making visually beautiful clothing with attention to detail and craftsmanship. Focused on creating pieces that will last, not only in terms of durability - but remaining aesthetically timeless for seasons to come.  They create their own artwork and hand print all of our fabric in-house, allowing the use of exclusive patterns and creation of their own color palettes. This hand printed process also makes each garments one of a kind. With a focus on locally sourced premium fabric and quality components, Loden strives to create clothing that people feel a close connection to. Largely a women's wear line of fantastic bohemian chic garments, they also offer some stellar printed T's for guys too. This is their first showing with SFM and we are looking forward to seeing their full collection.

heyday design

Finely crafted and finely presented. We always love what heyday design brings to the SFM show. Simplicity with class. Modern vintage charm! What has she come up with this year? Come out to the show this weekend and see!

Claire Madill graduated from Emily Carr University of Art & Design in 2007 and wasted no time moving into a ceramics studio where she could continue excelling in 'plaster disasters'. She started heyday design to create functional and wearable modern porcelain while having an excuse to dig through second-hand shops for shiny objects and arresting patterns. Ideas around value and usefulness continue to inform her practice. heyday design mines the past to create for the future. commonplace, utilitarian vintage kitchen wares are transformed into contemporary porcelain objects and accessories, endorsing a new perspective on their purpose and aesthetic.

In 2011, heyday design fabricated over one hundred custom porcelain beaver jar lights for Anacleto Design's renovation of Oliver & Bonacini's canoe, as well as showed her porcelain jewellery with Designboom at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York City. Claire continues to live and work in Vancouver, B.C.

Astrosatchel/Winterluxe

We are not sure that there is anyone who works harder than core SFM member Janna Hurtzig of famed indie brand, Astrosatchel. On every street corner one can literally see an Astrosatchel bag slung across some hip Vancouverite's swaggering body. They are the perfect coastal bag that is both fashionable and functional keeping your goods dry while keeping you looking darn good! We are looking forward to seeing new styles from Janna at this years show.

Janna started her Astrosatchel line in 1998, and 13 years later is still true to it's handmade ethos. In 2005, production moved from back bedroom to an airy, bright studio in Vancouver's Railtown neighbourhood where it remains today.

Inspired by nature, the Astrosatchel label combines Scandinavian design, Asian pop culture influences and a Canadian cottage feel, to give even the smallest of items a distinct look. Products include purses and tote bags, wallets, diaper bags made from vegan friendly Naugahyde vinyl. The Astrosatchel aesthetic is clean lined, yet detailed, allowing complex themes to be expressed in simplified manner. Bold and bright colour combinations add a striking layer to the story. Recent additions to the line include a new colour based series of back-to-basic, retro shaped purses and small housewares line featuring kitchen textiles.

2011 sees the launch of winterluxe, a winter collection made entirely from 100% recycled cashmere, including scarves, cowls, mittens and arm warmers. Off cuts are used to create shag cushions and luxurious shag rugs, keeping with the warm and cosy feel.

LUprints Homewares

LUprints designer, Ulla Clark, was introduced to Scandinavian textiles at a young age, growing up with a Swedish mother. On frequent family visits to Sweden and seeing her relatives’ homes adorned with collections of hand-embroidered and screen printed linens, her fondness for table runners and napkins blossomed. Ulla spent a decade working outside in the forest, often finding time for collecting and cataloguing plants and flowers and has always been drawn to the pleasing simplicity that nature provides. Her strong affection for nature as well as her memories of the beautiful, yet functional linens, are a constant inspiration for new products and prints.

A regular guest artist with the SFM show Ulla's work is always stable and strong. Striking color and good design make her prints both memorable and desirable. Practical, functional and visually pleasing. Marimekko eat your heart out!

Caroline Miller Design

Caroline's work is quirky, kinda whacky and just plain fun! We love having her, her good vibes and great jewels at the show. Her ability to merge materials together into unique art jewellery compositions definitely sets her apart from others in her field. She is always expanding her visual vocabulary by pushing her skills as a metalsmith to the next level, thus keeping her and her followers engaged in her work.

 

Of her work, Caroline says, "Although essentially a jeweller, I consider myself foremost a metalsmith. Traditional techniques of metalsmithing evolved over generations form the basis of my work and what I aim to do with them is create pieces that hold a meaning as particular as the individual that will wear them. 

My work revolves around two distinct techniques - forging and construction. Along with my love of construction, I am progressing my interest in making modern forms and sculpture by traditional methods such as; raising, repousse and blacksmithing. These pieces range from small intricate constructed jewellery to larger copper hollow vessels. I am interested in exploring all creative avenues between these points in metal.

The materials I use are primarily malleable metals: silver, gold, copper and steel.  However, I like to meet the precious with the non-precious and I also use plastics such as formica and plexiglass.  Additionally, I often incorporate semi-precious stones with found materials and cast components are a frequent feature of my work. Many of my pieces have a narrative, where others are simply aesthetic and classic in style. In one sense my work is a microscopic study of the world we live in and in another it is simply part of the world we live in."

Miyuki Shinkai (Mellon Glass Studio)

Beauty with intention is the way one could describe the work of Miyuki Shinkai. It is her first time showing with us at SFM and we are sure that our visitors will enjoy her work.

Miyuki Shinkai was born and raised in Shiga, Japan. After earning a BA in English and Comparative Culture in Osaka, she relocated to the United States where she studied in Hawaii, California and Vermont, earning an MA in Social Administration at Georgia Southwestern State University. While there, she developed an interest in glass and earned a minor in glassblowing. This interest led her to the Pilchuck Glass School, Washington and a career in the art of glassblowing.

Miyuki now lives and works in Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast, where she and her husband, Wayne Harjula, run Mellon Glass Studio. The couple met in the States, where they were both developing their craft and moved to Canada together to start their own studio. After working in Vancouver’s Strathcona area for a number of years they relocated to the Sunshine Coast, looking for a place that was closer to nature to raise their young family. Both artists have had numerous exhibitions of their work at galleries around the world.

"The environmental sustainability and the growth in local economy has become a mainstream concern to the general public.  It seems to be the industrial age is coming to the end after we have gone through the saturation of materialism and consumerism. I feel strongly we are going through the transition period before the new era to come. As the artisan who works in traditional medium, it has been a challenge up against mass production economy, but now is the time that gives us special meaning to work with natural resources and emphasize truthfulness and the slow process of creation. 

Through my visual art practice, I have been searching for unity.  I believe that we are all together as one, while respecting many diverse cultural traditions and the uniqueness of individuality.  Freedom of thoughts and creativity promotes innovation.  I am interested in evolving flow, not staying static.  Art expression allows me to overcome the differences in language and in our foundation of human beliefs.  It has always been an ultimate communication method for me to feel closer to my higher self and interact with the rest of society.  The presentation of the creation has been an important event for my personal development, integration and participation in the community.  The Kizuna project in 2010 was a milestone: I have spent half my life in Japan and half living in North America.  I feel a new chapter has just begun as an artist and mother.  I will continue to push the boundary to be true to myself and stay in tune with my original intentions."

Arleigh Wood

One of our core members, Arleigh is an inspiration to us all. Her dedication to her studio work is steady and disciplined; her whimsical and poignant style of image-making is truly original and her gentle manner and personality make you like her artwork even more! As a new mom she is even that much more inspiring as she strives to achieve the work/life/family balance.

Arleigh Wood studied at Concordia University in Montreal and the University of Hertfordshire in St. Albans, UK, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours. Wood has participated extensively in national and international exhibitions. Her work is in private and corporate collection and has been featured hotels and in various interior design magazines including Canadian House and Home. Wood’s paintings have also been used in films and television shows like the “Designer Guys”. When she is not working in her Vancouver studio, Wood enjoys fast-paced urban explorations and peaceful natural escapes.

Hammypie

Welcome back Hammypie! A great addition to the show we are happy to have these girls back for a second year in a row. Their knits and paper products unite creativity with function adding great visual to the daily life of those who choose to live with Hammypie objects.

Meet Harmony and Eunice - these two make Hammypie! Harmony works as a local print media and graphic designer in Vancouver, and Eunice is an avid knitter. Whether it's making intricate jewelry pieces, handmade cards, or mobiles, there isn't any project that Harmony won't tackle!  She ventured into teaching Eunice to knit 4 years ago. Since then, Eunice has been a bit of a knitting junkie, constantly thinking about different types of yarn, combining colors and textures, and finding unique buttons.

Unsatisfied in her search for well designed calendars, Harmony began designing calender in 2009. These calendars are whimsical and eco-friendly, and created and printed in Vancouver. Harmony's work has been highly influenced by her daily life, travels and whimsical imagination.  

Eunice's knitwear consists of cowls and circle, infinity scarves. She loves mixing materials with different textures, using wool as her staple.  From choosing the yarn to sewing on that very last button, there isn't a part of knitting that Eunice doesn't thoroughly enjoy.

BETA5 chocolates by Adam Chandler

A departure from our roster of media that we regularly represent BETA5 Chocolates is a welcome guest to this year's upcoming show! We love the love these edible creations are made with! They are so beautiful that it's hard to eat them, but once you start it is surely hard to stop!   

The form-5 beta crystal structure is the most stable form of cocoa butter crystallization, formed through the controlled melting, and subsequent  cooling (tempering) of liquid chocolate. At BETA5 we are focused on making classically influenced chocolates and confections with a modern aesthetic. We are committed to using the best ingredients available to us – local first, and organic when it makes sense, but always free of pesticides and sprays. We support farmers and food that is produced on a smaller scale, and we choose chocolate with a paper trail that can be traced to its harvest. BETA5 chocolates are perfect for when you need to impress someone with a unique, handcrafted gift; when you’re throwing the party of a lifetime (we love creating custom treats, tailored specific to your event); when your personal stash is low; or, when you’re just looking to indulge.