Pattern Pulse: Fostering Creative Communities and Advocacy in the Australian Design Scene with Rachael King

Margo is joined by Aussie Surface Pattern Designer Rachael King. Obsessed with pattern from an early age, Rachael King grew up watching her talented mother making clothes not only for her and her siblings but for bridal and formal events too. While working in her mom's fabric shop, she mused over how the pattern repeated over the fabric and wondered how fabric was printed and wouldn't it be wonderful to design fabric too? It took another 23 years before Rachael was able to start a diploma in graphic design that would then lead into her dream of becoming a surface pattern designer. Represented by Nerida Hansen at Surtex in 2017 led to her first licensed collection with Spotlight stores and since then she has worked with fashion, homewares and greeting card companies, been a part owner in a print-on-demand fabric business, self-published two books, and is now teaching and mentoring in her much-loved industry. Rachael adores the connection she makes with fellow designers through her various touchpoints and feels very privileged to be able to inspire and nurture emerging surface designers.   Margo and Rachael discuss: Rachael’s creative path and how her mom instilled a love for creativity in her Self-publishing her book, Pattern Pulse, after initial rejection Elizabeth Gilbert's book, Big Magic, and how it catalyzed her creative endeavors Tribulations and triumphs of women in the creative business landscape: asserting value, advocating for fair compensation, and having a network of peers and mentors The importance of physical art in a digital age Why individuality and authenticity are crucial to the art industry How artists can stay true to their unique style while also being commercially viable Challenges of building a creative community in Australia The influence and support that often comes from maternal figures in fostering creativity Thoughts and tips for artists facing low payment offers   Connect with Rachael: www.rachaelking.com.au www.patternpulse.com.au www.instagram.com/rachaeldoesdesign www.instagram.com/australiansurfacedesigners www.facebook.com/rachaelkingdesignsbrisbane   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill