In a world where fast fashion moves at breakneck speed, there is something deeply grounding about knowing exactly where your clothes come from. For me, clothing has always been about more than just fabric and thread—it’s about the hands that make it, the story behind the print, and the community it supports.
At Surface Art, we’ve always done things a little differently. We believe that ethical clothing in Sydney shouldn't be a niche luxury; it should be the standard. Whether you’ve been visiting us at our Leichhardt store for years or you’ve just discovered our prints online, I want to share a bit of the journey that brought us here—and why we are so proudly Australian made (almost).
Our Roots: From Scotland to Sydney
My love for pattern and design started long before Surface Art existed. I originally trained in textile design in Scotland, but it was my move to Sydney that truly ignited the passion you see in our collections today.
In the 1990s, I had the incredible opportunity to work with the iconic Australian artist Ken Done. My role involved translating his vibrant, signature art into textiles for fashion and accessories. That experience was pivotal for me. It taught me the power of bold, expressive imagery and deepened my love for the unique light and color of the Australian landscape.
By the year 2000, I was ready to tell my own story. Surface Art began humbly as a stall at the local markets, where I sold handmade cushions and fabrics screen-printed with my original designs. It was small, it was personal, and it was the start of a 20+ year journey grounded in a love for "Nature, Art, & Pattern."
Why "Local" Matters: The 5km Rule
When we say we are Australian made, we mean it in the truest sense. In an industry that often chases the cheapest labor across the globe, we have made a conscious choice to stay local.
One of the things I am most proud of is our "5km Rule." Approximately 90% of our products are made within 5 kilometers of our Leichhardt studio in Sydney’s Inner West.
Why does this matter?
- Lower Carbon Footprint: Our garments don't travel oceans to get to you. They travel down the road.
- Fair Wages: We know our makers. We know they are paid fairly and work in safe conditions under Australian labor laws.
- Quality Control: Being close to the manufacturing process means we can ensure every seam and hem meets our high standards for longevity.
When you buy a piece from us, you aren’t just buying a dress or a top; you are supporting a local ecosystem of pattern makers, cutters, and sewers right here in Sydney.
Our Labels Explained
Over the years, our family of brands has grown, and I often get asked about the difference between our labels. They all share the same DNA of quality and local production, but each has its own personality:
- Surface Art: The original. This is where you’ll find our boldest signature prints, usually on natural fabrics like cotton and linen. It’s all about unique patterns designed right here in the studio.
- Essaye: If you say the letters "S.A." (for Surface Art) out loud, what do you get? Essaye! This label focuses on timeless shapes and block colors that complement our printed ranges. It’s the perfect foundation for a functional wardrobe.
- Theadora Jones: This label is incredibly close to my heart, as it is named after my mother. It represents a slightly more sophisticated, classic aesthetic, honoring the woman who inspired so much of my creativity.
Visit Us in Leichhardt
Digital screens can show you a print, but they can't let you feel the weight of the linen or see the vibrancy of the colors in natural light.
We would love to welcome you to our shop in the heart of the Inner West. It’s a space where you can chat with us, try on our latest Australian made collections, and see where the magic happens.
Where to find us:
184 Norton Street, Leichhardt, NSW
Opening Hours:
Friday & Saturday: 10am – 4pm
If you can't make it to Leichhardt, you can always explore our full range online. Thank you for supporting local manufacturing and for being part of the Surface Art story. Here’s to many more years of making beautiful things, right here in Sydney.
