folklore

The popularity of folk influences coming through in so many creative areas - graphic design, music, fashion - is really exciting. There's something inviting about native prints and patterns reinvented in contemporary craft design and illustration especially.

I recently found illustrator Sandra Dieckmann, who brings her love of animals through into her illustrative work. I love her use of pattern to bring form and her fresh uplifting colour palette.

"The best folktales have a dark edge. Conversely, the best folk art pops with colour - perhaps as a visual way of whistling in the dark, perhaps a celebration of the richness of northern Europe's storytelling tradition. "

- Digital Artist Magazine

Sandra Dieckmann has a fabulous etsy shop - check it out - www.etsy.com/shop/SandraDieckmann

No. 67 Columbia Road

Whilst pigeon stepping through Columbia Road Sunday flower market last weekend (obviously not the only Londoner taken back by the bazaar sunny spell we had), I spotted a gorgeous fabric shop and haberdashery - Beyond Fabrics - which sells retro inspired printed fabrics (sourced from around the world) some amazing braided ribbons, amongst other pretty knickknacks.