Tell us a little bit about your label (art) and what you do?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a passion for jewellery of all types, and have enjoyed choosing and wearing it to match a mood or outfit. My creation of my own pieces emerged out of a need for something in particular that I could see in my minds eye but not in stores!! I found great joy and developed a passion for creating necklaces, bracelets and earrings. I particularly enjoy working with natural products, such as lava beads, glass, and stone, and like to make them noticeable!!!
The name “BabaLouie” came from the nickname I had for my daughter when she was little. She is now a practicing artist herself, and her capacity to express herself creatively, and market her work successfully, as been inspirational.
What inspires your work?
My wish to be creative is my main driver. A couple of people are behind my inspiration. My artistic daughter is one, as I outlined above. I have an incredibly talented mother, who can turn her hand to most things, who has also found a market for her talent. But one of the biggest inspirations was my mother-in-law, an elegant, stylish woman of Egyptian heritage, who has shown me how to use beads to make an ordinary outfit stunning!!!
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I am a Clinical psychologist, and have spent my adult life working with people who have struggled to find joy in their own lives. I currently run my own private therapy practice, and prior to that worked as a therapist and then manager of an Early intervention program, working with high risk women who were pregnant, and post birth with them and their babies. Through both these environments I’ve seen the value of therapy, including art therapy and the use of creativity, to help people move through difficult emotions and find some personal strength, some expression of self, and with that connection to their own values. This has also shown me that self-care can encompass many facets, and that pleasure in self-presentation, through clothing and jewellery, has a place in this!
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
My Egyptian mother in law, wearing my work proudly and elegantly.
One thing you can’t live without?
Connection with the people who mean the most to me – my partner and my family.
What gets you up in the morning?
Honestly…. exercise!!! I’m a bit of a gym junkie.
How would your best friend describe you in 3 words?
I asked…they said empathic, good fun, “stylie”
What is the next skill you want to learn?
Spanish
What is your dream project?
Travel overseas to source beads and jewellery
Favourite or most inspirational place in Sydney?
Bondi beach and the coastal walk.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Have confidence and trust your skills, and set up in private practice!
What advice would you give to new, aspiring Makers?
Don’t be too influenced by the opinions of others, follow your heart and your passion. If you respond to what you feel truly connected with, what you produce will be great!!
And most importantly, what would your ultimate karaoke song be?
To be honest… I cant sing!!! I’d avoid karaoke like the plague. ☺
BabaLouie Jewellery now in store at Work-Shop Makery, 106 Oxford Street Darlinghurst NSW