The warmer weather has arrived, and the seasons for markets are picking up. As I write this, I’m preparing for a few days at the always popular Granville Island Public Market in Vancouver next week. I’m looking forward to chatting all things leather with new customers and old, as well as taking some time to enjoy the ‘big city’ life for a change!
As you know, the magic of Indian Summer Leather Design takes place on the beautiful Gulf Island of Gabriola Island. In everything I create, I look for inspiration around me; whether it’s being around the intricately carved sandstone at Malaspina Galleries, walking the trails of the deep, lush Elder Cedar Nature Reserve, or listening to the waves lap against my kayak in the salty sea.
One of the times I feel most connected to the Earth, is when I am collecting the rocks used for the closures on my bags. It brings me serenity when I spend time on Gabriola’s beautiful beaches, and offers a chance for reflection on my work and the reasons why I do what I do. The rocks I look for need to be a certain shape, as well as flat and smooth, to work as bag clasps. I bring them home, sort them, and Brian drills a hole in them using a diamond wet drill bit. I love giving each of my bags a little piece of Gabriola – and allowing my customers to take home a piece of paradise with them as well, or as Brian likes to say “a small piece of ocean front property”.
What inspires you in what you do? Is it nature? Family & friends? Alone time? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear from you!
Thanks for reading, and make sure to say hi if you are coming to the Granville Island Market this coming week.
Anita has been designing leather for over 22 years. She and Brian have deliberately kept Indian Summer Leather Design to an “artisan’s scale” in order to be involved in the entire process from creative design to placing her products into the hands of the women and men who will ultimately love her bags. Check out the Calendar pagefor a detailed list of upcoming shows where you can view Anita’s uniquely designed bags in person. And don’t forget to follow Anita on Facebook& Instagram!
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