Vignetting Vic Exhibition

I am, by no means, a bonafide photographer. I can, however, take a good shot or two and have been using film cameras for the last year or so. So far, Lomography cameras have been my weapon of choice, because they're easily attainable, simple to use and oh so freaking cute. I was lucky enough to have a photo of mine selected recently for a Lomo Australia exhibition, which focussed on images of the great state of Victoria and is currently running at the No Vacancy Project Space at Federation Square. 

My baby, Pins

I, of course, had to attend the opening party last night, which featured a lot (and I mean A LOT) of cool customers, bevs and really really impressive images (all within a really really tiny space). Despite mutterings of 'hipsters', 'shit cameras and shit photos', it was an overall fun vibe, with flashes going off and polaroids being given away. No doubt these 'other' people needed to loosen the buttons on their work shirt, be grateful for the free booze and shut the fuck up.

Me and my baby

I haven't shot a roll of film for a minute but am missing the process of shooting, forgetting, remembering, developing and being pleasantly surprised. For an anxious person, film photography can be like yoga or tai chi or Xanax. It's therapeutic and forces you to practice patience and consideration. And the appreciation of that awesome shot that turns out unexpectedly - or the ability to accept all the failed attempts despite your best efforts and intentions - really is the ultimate payoff. Inadvertantly, it becomes something that brings you peace, relaxation, learning curves and excitement. 

Scoff if you like, it sounds wanky, I know. But it doesn't have to be film photography. Maybe your thing is pottery. Maybe it's cycling. Maybe it's customising high-heeled hooker boots. Fuck, who cares. There's always that thing that allows you to escape, explore and create. This is mine.

If you're in this wonderful city, definitely take a minute to check out the space. Check out the venue and exhibition info after the jump.

K.x

Day Two: (Art) Market research

In stark contrast to yesterday, I woke up this morning to a face full of sunshine and the promise of a fruitful day. Funnily enough, even though I frequented a number of vintage stores and op-shops in Fitzroy, I didn't purchase a single thing. And I mean nothing. I didn't even make it to the supermarket. I'm having water and chocolate for breakfast tomorrow.

Despite the initial pang of going home empty-handed, I took it as market research and noted a few handy tips and observations for next time:

• A good vintage store can be a lot of fun
• A good vintage store can also cost a lot of money
• Just because the stock in a store's window or outdoor display looks dated, doesn't make it a second-hand store - it's just a weird, cluttered, variety store of sorts. With a questionable smell and an even more questionable shop-keeper
• When 'shopping' on Smith or Brunswick Street (or any street, in my case) it's probably best to take a close friend who knows you've undertaken such a challenge. Close witnesses decrease the inclination to cheat, particularly with all the very pretty clothes and shoes and bags and jewellery and teapots available....at a discount price.

Other than that, it was all a bit of a trip down memory lane. Rediscovering what a 90s baby I really am, my recently acquired love for fur anything and that I could probably sit and stroke a glo-mesh purse all day.

I definitely enjoyed it though and am looking forward to visiting different parts of town, albeit with a more considered and hopefully focused attitude.

 

However we did stumble upon the Rose Street Artist Markets, which definitely tested my (not-so-hidden) impulsive buying tendencies. I forgot how awesome a good, creative market space can be. So many wonderful home-made and recycled cuteness stirred feelings of warmth, nostalgia and pure lust within this material girl. 

I was on the verge of buying a couple of pieces - that I initially thought would make the cut because they were crafted out of old bits of cutlery and other randomness - until the obvious question loomed; are these old or new? GAH! I resisted. I thought I shouldn't fold on a technicality just yet....but even knowing that such awesomeness exists and that I may have to wait four weeks before acquiring it will probably drive me bonkers.

Anyhow, opinions on THAT juicy issue would be greatly appreciated. Obviously opinions which would result in me wearing a plastic dinosaur head on a ring would be highly regarded but I am open to all views.

Otherwise, I still love a good freebie. And the cheeky kids at Able and Game were giving away this fine specimen at their stall.

I'm not naked. I'm wearing yellow hotpants like my pal here.

So I guess it was a somewhat fruitful day anyway. Or it was just a great way to spend a day doing something while not really doing anything. It's what a Sunday should be, really.

Day Two and going strong, kids. Proud of me?

K.x

Pssst...

...you probably need to know about this.

KC WONDER
Conscious Apparel and Accessories

Take a sneaky peek at the slick production on their upcoming website here. Admittedly, I would usually hit the Skip Intro button but this has to be on of THE dopest intro vids I've seen to date. If first impressions really do last, then I'm expecting some serious heat to come out of the KC Wonder camp.

I have a feeling we won't have to wait too long before the website and first range are unveiled but in the meantime, be sure to stay up with all things Wonder via Facebook.

Watch this space. It's gonna be big.

K. x

Introducing...

LITTLE DANCER BOUTIQUE...cute online store and source of all your new favourite things.


Sashaying onto the scene in late 2009, LDB has been building its name and profile with the chic clique of Facebook and beyond. Founded by the super-sweet Stephanie and based in Queensland, LDB is about to launch their remodelled website.

In fact, LDB looks to be getting a total makeover. Complementing the site's face-lift is a whole new wardrobe, featuring fresh, young and edgy brands. Expect to see the likes of Toi Et Moi, Tonimay Jewellery and My Sunday Feeling gracing the new site. With Steph's blessings I've put together a couple snaps of my personal favourites (all of which I'm sure I will purchase at some point...naughty).


No doubt LDB has become one of my latest faves and I definitely can't wait for the new site to drop. Steph informs me it could be unveiled as early as Friday evening, though you can be sure of some action by Sunday, March 28.

So be sure to cruise on through www.littledancerboutique.com.au and cop yourself some cuteness.

K. x

PS. Peep the Behind-The-Scenes vid for the LDB photoshoot for more fashionable goodness.