There was a quiet moment when I was working away in my Artist in Residence nook at Dirty Janes, Bowral, when I had overheard a passer-by say, “These clutches are just beautiful! So much detail and colour!” That made my heart sing, to hear a stranger appreciate my work for what it is.

I greatly admire artists of all pursuits and I love to collect many types of art forms, so to be put in 'the artist' category in some way as the Artist in Residence in one of my all-time favourite locations in the Southern Highlands is a great honour.

I have my nook full to the brim with one-off fashion and home décor pieces and the styling of the blank canvas space was such fun.

I do love my studio at the back of our home in Bowral, but I think as a designer of pieces that are so tactile, it’s crucial for me to get ‘out & about’ so that existing and new customers get the opportunity to touch and feel my creations.

The touch sensation is as critical to me as the visual sensation when I source my fabrics and embellishments. If it doesn’t feel good, it’s not going to make the cut and enter my collection.

Having the opportunity to see which designs and fabric people gravitate to is also a wonderful opportunity for me; you just don’t get that when you are working solo in your studio.

I have met some lovely people at Dirty Janes, from customers, to other stallholders to the staff members. Everyone always seems so happy to be here and that creates a fabulous vibe for hand-stitching and shopping.

I’ll be the Artist in Residence at Dirty Janes until the end of December. Swing past, say hello and you may even spot the perfect bespoke gift for someone special (including yourself!). My stall is located right near the entrance next to Harry’s on Green Lane.

Dirty Janes address: 13 Banyette St, Bowral, NSW, Australia.

www.dirtyjanes.com