New Directions: Jade Fisher

In Full Bloom: A Conversation With Jade Fisher

In the next edition of our 'NEW DIRECTIONS ' series, we sit down with Jade Fisher - an artist who made the transition from the world of fashion into floral art. We sat down to discuss what drove her to make the change, what inspires her, and the most meaningful moments on her journey so far.

Q: What inspired you to transition from fashion design into art? Was there a particular moment that sparked the shift?

I absolutely loved working in the fashion industry - I had so much fun and worked alongside so many amazing, talented people. I made some lifelong friends along the way and I feel so lucky I got to live that fast paced, exciting life.

After having my first Son Freddie, I found that my focus shifted a lot. We moved away from Sydney and I worked from home as a freelance fashion designer so I could take care of him However, this meant that I was not so involved in the entire process of designing and producing the ranges anymore so I felt removed and out of the loop.

I also felt like the Australian high street fashion was becoming more about chasing higher profit margins rather than focusing on high quality fabrications and original designs, which I found quite disheartening

I brainstormed ideas of what my next creative path could be. I did a course in creative photography, and pondered getting back into textile design which is what I studied at University. Then one day a local art gallery opened up in our town and I remembered how much I used to love painting at Art college. So I bought some paint and canvases and just began painting.

Q: Tell us about your creative process - where do you begin, what inspires your designs?

We have some beautiful flower farms where I live so I’m always finding inspiration there. 

I also have some kind friends who often leave home grown flowers from their gardens on my porch for me to paint. My sons always pick flowers for me too.

I usually plan my paintings in my sketchbook first, creating loose abstract backgrounds with watercolours to perfect the colour balance and work out the positions of the flowers. That’s the best part as it’s very free and spontaneous 

Colour is also a big starting point for me. I’m often drawn towards soft pastel, serene colours - I think it’s my calming therapy because I live in a house with 3 loud, wild boys.

Q: How have your years in fashion influenced your work? 

It taught me to be aware of trends and how to react to them. Just like fashion, the art world sees trends happening. It’s important to be aware of them and evolve with them but I try to always stay true to my personal style that I’ve developed over the years.

Interior stylists also pay close attention to the Pantone colour of the year so I try to keep in mind what that is and how my work could compliment that colour trend.

I also learned a sense of commerciality from working in fashion. It would be fun to paint whatever you want but at the end of the day, you want your work to sell so it’s important to be aware of what people are buying. It needs to have wide appeal.

Buying artwork is a big investment. You want it to stand the test of time so that your clients enjoy it on their walls for years.

Q: What’s been one of your most memorable or meaningful moments in this journey?

I think it would be my recent collaboration with Adairs.

We collaborated on a bed linen range which included bedding, cushions, throws, wall art and homewares. It was a real ‘wow’ moment when I walked into the store and saw a whole area dedicated to my range.

It was also a full circle moment as it was going back to my textile background. A dream come true.

Q: Describe your ambitions for the future of your business? 

I’ve done a few collaborations with Australian fashion houses and that’s where my heart belongs.

I really hope that I get the opportunity to work with other fashion Brands again soon. I feel like my artwork lends itself well to all-over-prints or placement prints so it would be amazing if I got the chance to make that happen. I will manifest it.

We always end these conversations asking our fellow female founders "Who inspires you and why?" 

I have an amazing group of close friends around me who inspire me every day. Strong, creative, intelligent women. Each one is brilliant in their own field .We all cheer each other on in our projects and careers and lift each other up. 

I love seeing women shine and I am very grateful that I have friends who want that for me too.