With Adelaide fast becoming an artsy state filled with enormous talent, the iconic and historical Epworth Building, located on Pirie Street has nestled in yet another creative bunch of designers. Cloister Studio is now the home (away from home) to four Adelaide artistic minds, Angela Carrig, Christopher Arblaster, Andrija Sala and Lachy Lang.
This collective of designers have transformed the office space into a creative hub and on Wednesday night we were given an insight on a selection of their emerging designs they have been working on in their shared sanctuary.
The Cloister Studio opening exhibition focused on new, one off garments and textile objects by the studio residents. A small selection of individual work by invited participants, Celia Dottore, Connie Augoustinos, Eleanor Amor, Jason van Hamburg, Matea Glusevic, and Nathan Peacock were also on display.
All meeting through studying at TAFE, Cloister Studio has become an escape from everyday living for these four.
“Having a sanctuary, it can be very peaceful. Being detached from the things that can stress you out is what this workspace provides us”, says Angela.
Angela’s intriguing range of calico textiles is all about ease of wear and feeling comfortable.
“My focus is on sleepwear, as in clothing you can wear to sleep but also something that you can wear out and do something in during the day.” explains Angela.
Collaborating with Christopher and Lachy in creating this effortless line, we saw a variety of garments that can be worn in a multitude of ways, for every occasion. Angela rationalises that it’s important to feel interesting and comfortable at the same time, and to express yourself in whatever you do, whether it be through colour, texture, silhouette or shape. Angela and Jason are now working on the sleepwear and daywear range, which will include quilts and pillowcases that can be adaptable clothing pieces.
Lachy, on the other hand, presented an individual array that was entirely distinctive. Lachy used simple tailored textiles and designs to depict the ‘priest’ vibe, and we were immediately intrigued. The perception of the garments floating combined with the priest influence completed his look of the collection entirely! It was one of our favourites of the night.
A collaborated collection between Angela, Jason, Matea and Christopher was also on show. The creative four created a vintage-like grey, wool patch robe and belt, along with grey patchwork slippers and a warm-looking blanket.
Celia’s collection, ‘Ephemeral fabric brooches’ of naturally dyed calico and safety pins was another eye-catching display as was Connie’s ceramic buttons, and Eleanor and Christopher’s calico striped cotton pillowcase that they like to call; ‘Memorial for broken robot’.
Surrounded by family, friends and invited guest, Cloister Studio’s opening exhibition was a captivating event. Making thoughtful and responsible garments and textile objects which are all now for sale.
Cloister Studio will be holding regular exhibitions, workshops and screening. Stay tuned for more info on their Facebook page.
