Extra Curricular

Grace Lee

2011-12-18T12:46:00.000-08:00

Designer & illustrator Grace Lee did a couple of delightful illustrations for the latest issue, but because she came on board quite last-minute, we didn't include a contributor piece on her. Originally from Sydney, Grace lives in Tokyo, and you can see this influence coming through in her depictions of everyday objects. She has such a talented hand and I wanted to share some more of her charming illustrations – the top two were done for the pieces 'Summer Daze' and 'Please Mr. Postman' in Issue 7. You can see more here.

Trash to treasure

2011-11-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

Ben Galloway reminds me of the Wombles – 'Making good use of the things that they find, things that the everyday folk leave behind'. It's just him though – collecting old conveyor belts, lino samples and the like and turning these materials, once destined for landfill, into some pretty amazing-looking jandals, sandals and shoes. I really enjoyed talking to Ben about how Trash Footwear came about and where he's going with it. It's a pretty interesting story which you can read about on page 44 of Issue 7. Photographer Charlotte Ashton took photos for the piece – here's a selection of them including a few we couldn't fit onto the pages.

p.s. Trash Footwear and Extra Curricular are both part of Artifice - a contemporary craft exhibition in Hamilton. Go along if you're in the area. It runs until this Saturday December 3rd at 27 Collingwood Street.

O frabjous day!

2011-11-15T12:01:00.000-08:00

After being printed, bound and trimmed this week, issue 7 will be winging its way to a store or mailbox near you. Pre-order at Felt or Big Cartel to get yours first (or you could always subscribe). Devon Smith painted the jewel-inspired cover image, and we've interviewed several makers of jewellery this issue. There's also a special bonus since it's nearly Christmas and you'll (hopefully) have a stack of holiday reading to delve into – an illustrated bookmark.

The Jewellery Apothecary

2011-11-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

It sounds wonderful doesn't it? The Jewellery Apothecary is getting ready to dispense some precious remedies to Wellingtonians that might not fix what ails you, but will at least help with Christmas present shopping. Open just for the four weeks before Christmas, the pop-up shop in Torrens Terrace will have limited release collections from local Wellington talent; Murder of Crows, The Wild, Buster Collins and Vaune Mason.

After Christmas The Jewellery Apothecary will live on at www.thejewelleryapothecary.com.

The first 3 images are from The Wild; the 4th is Buster Collins; and the last from Murder of Crows.

The Jewellery Apothecary

28 Torrens Terrace

26 November - 24 December

Open 10am - 6pm weekdays

10am – 4pm weekends

Stockist series: emma

2011-10-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

Hidden away in the suburb of Berhampore in Wellington, emma boutique has always been a loyal supporter of Extra Curricular, as well as selling beautiful locally made clothing and other stylish things. Now you can get your fix of emma's pretty and practical style in the city too - designer Emma Wallace answered some questions about her new store for us...

What will customers discover at emma on Cuba Street?

A boutique that stocks my clothing label ‘emma’ which is designed and made in New Zealand. I love to create garments that are easy to wear, feminine, inspired by vintage detailing and shapes and most importantly great quality and made to last. Alongside our clothing racks we stock select ranges of New Zealand (and the occasional extra special Australian) made jewellery, accessories, swimwear and gifts. There’s a shared love for all things vintage at ‘emma’ with our ex-butcher shop fitted out with pre-loved furniture given a new lease on life and a bit of love. We like to share with our customers a giggle or two over whimsical thoughts and if you like humming along to Fleetwood Mac tracks whilst browsing the racks you’re in the right place. Not only will you find Extra Curricular magazine here but also treasures straight out of its pages!

What's the best thing about coming to work each day?

Having ‘emma’ garments tried on by all sorts of different stylish women everyday, finding which style best suits them and then seeing them wearing it on the street. It’s always a buzz! I also love when one of our crafty makers pops in with some of their latest creations to share, I’m always blown away with their new ideas, creativity and expertise.

What is one thing you learnt from opening your shop?

That there’s just so many lovely people out there, I’m always so chuffed they make it through my door and so grateful for their support. It’s genuinely humbling. I used to wholesale my label and work from home, so missed out on that connection. I’m really glad I made the decision to put my business out there and open my first shop in Berhampore.

What's the best-kept secret in your local area?

Well as we’re new to the revamped upper Cuba Street neighbourhood I think we’re still quite a secret! Best-kept may be that there’s still 1 hour free parking outside our boutique door (bonus in the central city!) perhaps tied with the massage chairs at our wonderful next door neighbour ‘The Powder Room’, sink into one of these beauties and relax while getting your hair shampooed - bliss! Oh and of course there’s ‘Martha’s Pantry’ just around the corner for lady-like tea and cake so this part of town is turning into a great girlie hang-out.

emma

new boutique

268 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington

ph. 04 8024179

www.emmacollections.com

Cardboard toys

2011-10-13T05:16:00.000-07:00

Flatout Frankie is the product of Sarah Gardner's amazing imagination. A graphic designer and mother, she's been working away on prototypes and testing these for a year now, combining her love of design and cardboard to bring us these awesome flatpack toys that encourage play and creativity. A step up from playing inside the washing machine box, which I remember fighting over as a child! Love the white on brown.

A wearable magazine?

2011-10-03T00:14:00.000-07:00

T-post is for lovers of T-shirts, who also love magazines, and news, and mail, and innovative extra curricular projects. It was started in 2004 when Peter Lundgren and his colleagues at an ad-agency in Stockholm came up with the idea to make a news magazine that drew attention to certain topics they thought needed to be further discussed. As a subscriber, you get an awesome T-shirt in the mail each month – with a news story printed on the inside, and a graphic interpretation of it on the outside. It's interesting to see the artists's interpretation and then look at what news story it relates to. A pretty great idea – and they send 'em anywhere in the world!

This one's about companies who are promoting 'green' products - not to join the environmental movement, but to get a slice of the green money pie. Designed by Ville Morkki

One about how thieves are using social media to find out where you live and when you're not home. Designed by David S. Blanco

Stockist series: Follow

2011-09-27T00:59:00.000-07:00

Follow is a delicious new design concept store in Surry Hills, Sydney. Brooke & Sarah are the genius minds behind the Finders Keepers Markets which kicked off in 2007, and have been staunch supporters of emerging design from the get-go. They have created their dream store in a beautiful heritage listed building, featuring a curated selection of over 40 independent designers from around Australia.

What will customers discover at Follow?
The store features a wonderful range of products from art prints, contemporary jewellery, clothing, textiles, homewares and now magazines! For those not in Sydney, we sell and ship worldwide on our online shoppe!

What's the best thing about coming to work each day?
Knowing this is our little curated space with all our favourite things. Being surrounded by daily inspiration and meeting people who appreciate what you do and get just as excited. It really is such a lovely feeling.

What is one thing you learnt from opening your shop?

We've learnt many things! the most important being that you have to put 110% into it and don't give up! Times can be tough, but if you believe in yourself and others do, every day brings a new success.

What's the best-kept secret in your local area?
We're pretty lucky to be surrounded by some pretty great places in Surry Hills, unfortunately they aren't really secrets for long! A good thing in this area is always discovered by others pretty quickly. We're loving the little hidden galleries, like Friends of Leon just near us on Marlborough Street and coffee shops in tiny corners of the area like Nookie on Cleveland Street.

Follow Store

380 Cleveland Street,

Surry Hills, NSW

Wednesday – Saturday 11am – 6pm

Sunday 11am – 4pm

Stockist Series: Holland Road Yarn Company

2011-09-19T12:59:00.000-07:00

Tash Barneveld at Holland Road Yarn Company has been a firm supporter of the magazine from the beginning, and if you visit, you'll find Extra Curricular nestled in amongst beautiful hand-dyed yarns - her cosy shop in Petone is a knitter's haven. At the moment, with the Hutt Knitters Group she is part of, she is organising the making of a beekeeper's quilt to be auctioned off for KidsCan - head over here if you are a knitter and you'd like to join in the fun - all the stitching together is happening at Craft 2.0 in Wellington on 29 October and there are even prizes (you get an entry for each hexipuff contributed to the quilt).

What waits to be discovered at Holland Road Yarn?

Beautiful yarns, fabrics, haberdashery and crafty items. I wanted the shop to be a home for the best hand-dyed and commercially produced yarns sourced both locally and internationally. Now we're heading into warmer weather I can indulge my other great love - beautiful fabric.

What's the best thing about coming to work each day?

It's like hanging out in my lounge! And being surrounded by bright colours and beautiful wool is pretty ace. Also, my customers are the most wonderful people. When they bring in finished products to show me, it's the best thing ever.

What is one thing you learnt from opening your shop?

You won't get everything right, and that's ok. As the saying goes, you need to learn from it and move on. Oh, and taking days off from work is important, otherwise you get stuck in a creative rut! That's two things, but they're both very important!

What's the best-kept secret in your local area?

Cultured, the most amazing cheese shop down the road. Wendy has become a bit of a knitter and keeps me in cheese melts and coffee when the hunger pangs bite.

Holland Road Yarn Company
281 Jackson Street, Petone
Wellington

Mon - Fri 10 - 6
Sat 10 - 4
Sun 11 - 3

Knit Night: Thursday 7pm - 9pm

Stockist series: Nook

2011-09-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a series of meet & greets showcasing some of our lovely stockists, with Michelle Gillies who owns Nook. Whether or not you live in Brisbane, you probably know about this charming little store already. I must admit I'm a tiny bit jealous of the copies of Extra Curricular that are lucky enough to take the trip there each time. Michelle sent some pictures and answered a few questions for us about the shop she opened in 2009.

What will customers discover at Nook?

Firstly, if you're lucky, you'll be welcomed out front by Pedro (the resident cat). He spends most of the day waiting for and receiving pats by the gate. Inside we stock a range of colourful and creative pieces ranging from plant markers to t-shirts, ceramics, stationery and unique homewares. The majority of goods are sourced from small and local independent business and a few from overseas. We also have twines and washi masking tapes and other necessities.

What's the best thing about coming to work each day?

I'm very fortunate to have a house and shop in one (and yet I still somehow manage to be late some days). I love receiving parcels. I can't imagine that will ever lose its appeal. I get to chat with lovely and inspiring people every day, both customers and designers. What more could you ask for?

What's the best-kept secret in your local area?

Hanasho florists. Their arrangements are stunning and often feature long fronds folded and held in place with bamboo pins.

Nook

19 Browning St

West End, Brisbane

Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5pm

Saturday 10am - 4pm

Overdue apology

2011-09-03T03:46:00.000-07:00

In issue 5, when I interviewed Abby & Kate of Golden Ink Collaborative and asked them what they were listening to, I'm embarrassed to say I misheard when Kate said 'Holly Throsby' and instead printed 'Polly Crosby'. I know. Ignorant as I was back then, I have since discovered her dreamy music (long after everyone else) and also have a more thorough proofreading system. This is one of my favourites - and I hope that this post will go some way toward an apology for my silly faux pas.

What I Thought of You - Holly Throsby (Official Video) from Yanni Kronenberg on Vimeo.
p.s. This one is great too.

Outtakes

2011-08-29T03:17:00.000-07:00

We interviewed and photographed Anissa Ljanta - a.k.a. Grow Mama, for the latest issue. A skilled sewer, she lives and creates on the west coast - there must be something in that salty sea air. Her upcycled items are not only practical and well made, but evoke a bit of nostalgia in folks of various ages when they recognise fabrics from their childhood (Anissa also wrote the piece on upcycling for the issue). She is hosting The Creative Mama Series on her blog at the moment, with guest posts every weekend by other creative and inspiring mothers. Here are some photos that didn't quite fit in the magazine, taken by Rosa-May Rutherford, and an excerpt from the interview.

"I look out from my crafting table to an expanse of sea, native bush and sky. I feel so blessed to be here. Living on the wild west coast keeps me grounded in practical, everyday beautiful designs. Vintage pencil skirts and heels just don’t cut it out here."

Fashion-flavoured art

2011-08-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

This looks delicious...

dream workshop

2011-08-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

Wish I could attend this workshop run by Abby Seymour from Golden Ink... you'll have seen Golden Ink Collaborative's distinctive porcelain creations bouncing around the internet like wildfire, as well as an interview in Issue 5 of Extra Curricular and Abby's beautiful cover illustration. If you're in Melbourne, you'll certainly want to get in quick for this and several other tempting workshops coming up at Harvest Workroom. You can also learn the art of mini teepee construction, watercolour painting, and one-piece printing – and that's just the beginning.

Photos are from the workshop series that's just been and are copyright Harvest Workroom

Crafty as a fox

2011-08-23T19:56:00.000-07:00

It is a complete coincidence that just as I was sending the latest Extra Curricular off to print, I found out that Nyssa Skorji, of A Wilderness for You and Me was going to be stocked online by Foxes. Funny especially as we titled her interview 'Crafty as a Fox'. Although not all that surprising really, since she makes lovely and sometimes foxy things! There were many gasps of excitement when I got this shoot back from the photographer, Olga Bennett, so I wanted to share with you some of the pictures we couldn't fit into the magazine. I love how organised Nyssa is with her little containers labelled with 'deer eyes' and 'fox eyes'!

48 Hour magazine project

2011-08-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

This weekend I've been helping out a bit with this 48 Hour magazine project. The folks at Stack Magazines over here in London are putting together a magazine over the weekend at the Southbank Centre with a bunch of writers, photographers, designers and illustrators... it's an interesting process to watch, especially coming fresh from spending more than two months on Extra Curricular! The theme of the weekend is 'Power & Production', and the title decided upon for the magazine is Makeshift - a name befitting the whole process and, as you can see, the makeshift studio set-up in the corner of the Southbank Centre. Here are a few photos of the process - I can't wait to see the final result next weekend!

Sneak Peak

2011-08-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

A few spreads from issue 6, which comes out at the end of next week.
Available for pre-sale now, here and here.

Things to make your day

2011-07-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

It's just about time for issue 6 to come out, which is the reason it's been so quiet around these parts. That, and the fact that I've relocated to London for a little while and have been busy with all the distractions that come with discovering a new place and finding my feet. I just wanted to share a link to Things to make my day, a food blog by Jessica Symonds from the Martha Goes Green crew, who have contributed another delicious recipe to the next edition. It's summer over here (sort of), and this hokey pokey icecream would certainly make my day. You don't even need any fancy equipment to make it.

One for the Swellingtonians...

2011-06-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't heard, Swonderful, one of our lovely Wellington stockists, is having a major workroom sale this Saturday - the likes of which may never be seen again, I'm told! As well as amazing bargains on Papercup clothing, one offs, samples & fabric, there are goodies from Love Love Lorelei, Ragdoll Illustrations & Free Range Baby. And cupcakes. Uh huh.

2011-06-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Toby Morris, who was featured back in Issue 1 of Extra Curricular, has just printed a newsprint edition of his beautiful and moving comic about his Great Gran. He really is a great story teller. As always, his drawings are amazingly detailed, and I love the unique colour combination he's chosen. Order your copy here.

The Moccassin Maker

2011-05-22T01:39:00.000-07:00

Spiro Creations feature in the latest issue, with the amazing story of how Barb began making moccassins in the first place, back in Winnepeg, Manitoba. Barb (originally from Canada) and Isaac Morton now live in Auckland, where they continue to create beautifully crafted, original and one-of-a-kind leather goods - Barb stitching and cutting and dreaming up new designs; Isaac (a jeweller by trade) crafting the wooden buttons, leather leaf details and running the business end of things. The gorgeous images in the interview were taken by Matthew Zylstra Sawatsky, but I wanted to share some pictures we couldn't fit in the magazine, as well as my favourites from the Spiro collection - these fantastic purple ankle booties - perfect for festival going. Imagine the dancing that would be done in these shoes!

Shameless self promotion

2011-05-05T16:08:00.000-07:00

Over at my Miss Ellie May stores on Etsy and Felt, I'm having a bit of a sale to clear some space in preparation for leaving. I've left it a bit til the last minute, so these will only be up til next Tuesday - limited sizes so get in quick! Here's a snapshot of what's on offer...

Introducing Rosa

2011-05-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

The wonderful Rosa-May will be sending out your magazines while I am away. Rosa is a talented photographer and illustrator - we interviewed her about her project, 'A Quiet Morning' in the photography featurette in Issue 3. The top five images are from this series. I also wanted to show you some of the lovely things for sale over in the shop she runs with her sister, Stella. You can have a look at more of her stunning work here.

Alien Sale

2011-04-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

I picked up a friend from the airport early on Friday, and we decided to grab a coffee at Miller's and go shopping around K Rd. Not much is open early in the morning around there, but Metal Art was. Gigantic metal aliens and tie-dyed t-shirts - a must-see.

Once K Road woke up we headed to one of my favourite wee shops, Tiny Space. Hidden a little out of the way down on Cross Street, it's full of all sorts of colourful new and vintage treasures - and Extra Curricular, of course!

London town

2011-04-27T15:54:00.000-07:00

Illustration by Wayne Pate

I am about to get on a plane to go over to the UK for a year, and looking forward to a bunch of fresh inspiration and new adventures. Extra Curricular will carry on with with some wonderful helpers back here and my laptop over there... it sounds crazy but it just might work! It has always been my dream to have a job that I can do from anywhere. So while this isn't exactly a 'job' and will remain an 'extra curricular activity' for me - for now - it's at least a step closer to that dream. Just a warning... there may be some travel posts!

Press

2011-04-26T15:44:00.000-07:00

I just realised I'd put this on Facebook but not on the blog, so apologies to those who have already seen it! This little feature was in last week's Viva, a lifestyle/entertainment insert in the NZ Herald. My first PR - I'm not big into it (or very good at it) but I hope it will bring good things for the magazine. Online version here.

Environments

2011-04-15T00:14:00.000-07:00

Olga working on the book layout - photo by Thomas Dallas Watson

If you have the latest issue you will have seen the wee interview we did with Melbourne photographer Olga Bennett about her new book, 'Environments', featuring the spaces of creative types in and around Melbourne - one of the most inspiring cities around. Olga was also part of the photography featurette in Issue 3 and has taken photos for several of our interviews. Using natural light and film, she always manages to capture the moment perfectly - there's no doubt this will be a gorgeous, inspiring book. As well as the beautiful imagery, there are interviews by Sarah Caldwell. You can pre-order it here, but you don't have long - it'll be printed in early May according to how many orders there are.

A sneaky preview:

Extra Curricular ♥ Letterpress

2011-04-06T12:38:00.000-07:00

One for the Wellingtonians...

Poster Power!

Create a one-of-a-kind artwork, learning how to design, typeset, and print an A3 poster using a 19^th century letterpress in a special one-day course. Victoria University Community Continuing Education is offering this unique hands-on learning opportunity with Sydney J. Shep, the Printer at Wai-te-ata Press. Courses will be held on Saturday 7 May & Sunday 8 May, 9am-5pm, with places limited to 12 people per day. You'll want to enrol early for this one - and the best thing is, if you do, the Early Bird fee is $180 (enrol before 23 April for the discount). The full course fee is $200.

For further details or to enrol click here or call (04) 463 6556

Issue 5

2011-03-31T13:22:00.000-07:00

The new issue is out, finally. Whew! Here are some pictures.

Hum

2011-03-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

After driving past this huge dilapidated old house several times in the past few weeks, I was intrigued and had to stop in for a visit. Turns out it's a heritage site and the owners are renovating. At the moment they just serve coffee (Kokako) and slices, but they are planning exciting things for this place - apparently the kitchen will be open in about 6 months and it'll be a cafe, restaurant, bar & venue. What a massive (extra curricular?) project! In the meantime you can pick a couch on the veranda and chill out with a flat white.
Hum, 123 Grafton Rd, Auckland.

Look out for Issue 5!

2011-03-20T12:22:00.000-07:00

Any day now folks! It'll be available for pre-sale from today, and (fingers crossed) back from the printers on Friday night, getting packed up over the weekend and posted on Monday 29th.

Handmade for Christchurch

2011-03-01T11:31:00.000-08:00

Sitting Bunny pendant by Vaune Mason

This little guy and a whole heap of other handmade items have been donated by crafters and artists to raise money for the Christchurch Earthquake relief effort - all proceeds going to the Womens Refuge & The Salvation Army. Head to Handmade for Christchurch.

First Thursdays again!

2011-03-01T10:52:00.000-08:00

Wander down to St Kevin's Arcade in K Road this Thursday evening... while browsing the craft market you can listen to live classical music followed by window box opera, as well as check out dance performances - sounds intriguing! Iron Bank, Cross St, Verona Cafe, Le Gonda Arcade and Te Karanga are all joining in the fun too with heaps of great events throughout the evening, which runs from 6 - 9pm.

Foxes charity auction

2011-02-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

Foxes is running an auction to raise money for the Red Cross relief effort in Christchurch on their facebook page, in case you haven't heard. There are great items from lots of Extra Curricular favourites which are likely already on your wishlist. It's heartening to see people coming together to support our friends down south. The young girls selling brownies and lemonade at Kraftbomb yesterday raised a whopping $310, well done ladies!

Handmade 2011

2011-02-11T16:08:00.000-08:00

There is something special happening in Wellington on Queen's Birthday Weekend in June. Handmade 2011 is a multi-stream event with a series of workshops and lectures on a variety of subjects including bookbinding, embroidery, traditional Maori weaving, soap making, beer brewing, chocolate making... I could go on and on, but I'd probably end up listing the entire programme! Go and have a look yourself - I'm sure you'll be as excited as I am to see many familiar names there. If you are quick, you can still purchase a class voucher which then gives you preferential class selection.
Handmade 2011 - Queen's Birthday Weekend June 4 - 6 2011

Pop in for a cuppa...

2011-01-17T11:28:00.000-08:00

The Bread & Butter Letter is opening on Wednesday, in all its vintage, handmade glory. Rose & Sarah have put in the hard yards over the past few months to make their vision come to life. Drop in for a cup of tea and a biscuit - it'd be rude not to! 66 New North Rd in Auckland.

follow, follow, follow, follow, follow...

2011-01-10T23:40:00.000-08:00

If ever oh ever there was a cute little shop you should visit in Parnell, this is it. The owner of The Yellow Brick Road Boutique, Ruth Garden, has created a little treasure-filled pretty pastel oasis in the fancy Auckland suburb, and you really do have to follow the brick paving to get there. Nestled in next to a gelato shop (!) you can buy all manner of quirky and cool trinkets, clothing, and of course, Extra Curricular.
The Yellow Brick Road Boutique, 279 Parnell Rd, Auckland

Winner!

2010-12-16T17:28:00.000-08:00

The winner of the Katydid Christmas pack has been drawn - congratulations Kate Jones, you'll receive your prize next week, in time for Christmas.

I bought a toothbrush, some toothpaste, a flannel for my face. Pyjamas, a hairbrush, new shoes and Extra Curricular...

2010-11-29T01:07:00.000-08:00

As you may have found, Extra Curricular is stocked rather sporadically throughout New Zealand and Australia. I'm looking to fill in the gaps a bit, and wondering if any of you lovely EC readers have a local store you'd like to see it in ...

Katydid southern hemisphere snow globe cards

2010-11-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

You could send this to homesick friends living overseas... or is that a tiny bit mean? It's part of the prize pack in Issue 4 of Extra Curricular - out now (entries close 16th of December so that we can send the prize in time for Christmas). www.katydid.co.nz

Extra Curricular Issue 4 is nearly here...

2010-11-11T11:35:00.000-08:00

Cover art by the talented Jessica Hills

The holiday issue is just about here! It includes a printmaking featurette and interviews with some amazingly talented folk, as well as a little holiday activity book with 8 great projects to get stuck into over the holidays.

NZ Art & Design Week

2010-10-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

Bringing you some of the best local art & design, MoAD has organised a showcase of creative talent with an exciting event running from 13 - 21 November. Thirty artists & designers are participating in NZ Art + Design Week, including Cheryl Sills, Workroom Design, Martin Horspool and Sensitive Boyfriend. Check it out at 110 Carlton Gore Road, Newmarket, Auckland.

Art in the Dark

2010-10-15T22:50:00.000-07:00

Last night I checked out 'Art in the Dark' - a community event in Western Park in Ponsonby, Auckland. It was fun to meander along the paths, discovering all the various light works which have been installed for the event, which explores themes of community, environment and utopias. The whole thing is eco-friendly & powered by clean energy. One of my favourites was this space - 'nightshade' created by Shian Perawiti and Rose Watson - these lanterns are part of it. When we came upon it, Edith Piaf was playing and everyone had dainty cups of tea. It's on tonight too, I'd suggest a wander down if you live in the area.

Edges

2010-10-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

One of Extra Curricular's favourite artists Erica Lack has her first solo exhibition coming up. Erica creates amazingly detailed, beautiful papercuts, and we interviewed her in Issue 2 about her work. 'Edges' opens next Friday at 6pm at the Letham Gallery in Auckland and runs until November 7th. Her pieces are even more impressive in person, where you can examine every intricate detail and see the results of months of hard work and patience with a scalpel.

lucky ducks

2010-10-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

The random number generator has chosen & the winners of the goodies from issue 3 are Kirsten Fathers who has won the Lily's Make Believe London map cutout, Rachel Cleave who will be receiving the Chelsea Jade CD prize pack, and Darci Thompson won the Bibliographica miniature hand-bound book. Enjoy your prizes ladies!

Bird in a Bunny Suit

2010-09-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

Issue 3 features one of the collage creations of Bayley Collins (in the 'Objects of Our Desire' section). She creates small collages and drawings inspired by found imagery in her home based Auckland studio. Well she now prints cards featuring her cute wee creatures and you can buy them online at Foxes!

Don't forget...

2010-09-23T14:48:00.000-07:00

Kraftbomb this weekend! Extra Curricular will be there with bells on.

Still time to enter...

2010-09-19T02:55:00.000-07:00

If you haven't entered yet, don't forget to enter the competitions in Issue 3 - entries close on September 30th and prizes will be drawn the next day. There are treats to be won from from Lily's Make Believe, Chelsea Jade & Bibliographica - see page 2 for details.

Looking for advertisers for Issue 4

2010-09-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

Extra Curricular Issue 4 - the holiday issue - will be hitting the shelves November 18th, and some exciting things are in the works for it! If you are interested in advertising, contact extracurricularnz@gmail.com for info and pricing - prices start at $85 & the deadline for booking space is the end of September.

Win the crown!

2010-09-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that entries for the Little Help Project close on the 1st of October - if you're planning on entering you have just two weeks! There will be one winner of the 10K start-up package as well as 10 finalists who each get to have two of their designs printed! Above is a still from the awesome animation by Robert Wallace, check it out & enter online at www.littlehelpproject.com

Bedfellows

2010-09-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

If you're into illustration, get along to the upcoming exhibition 'Bedfellows' at The High Seas in Auckland. The High Seas shows are always awesome, and they do a great job supporting local creatives. I love the poster, illustrated by Devon Smith (Devon was featured in Issue 2 of Extra Curricular). The show will showcase some local illustration talent and aims to demonstrate that art and illustration can happily co exist.

Button Thief

2010-09-12T02:49:00.000-07:00

I remember obsessively collecting buttons when I was about 6 years old - to me they were like little jewels and I kept a jar of them hidden away from possible thieves. So I can definitely see the appeal of 'Button Thief' - a children's book created by first-time author Latesha Randall and illustrator Esther Griffiths. They have recently self published it (these are some of the illustrations) and are now in the process of getting it into stores around New Zealand. A story about 'friendship, forgiveness and the thrill of collecting', it will no doubt delight small girls everywhere. Once they own the book, young button lovers can sign up to 'Button Buddies' - where they'll be matched up with a pen friend to swap letters and buttons with - what a great idea!

Artists wanted!

2010-08-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

Remember First Thursdays from last Summer? Well it is coming back and this time it is going to be even bigger and more amazing!

Relaunching on Thursday 2 December 2010, it'll be a quarterly event from now on with more dates scheduled for 2011.

K Road will be jumping on a Thursday night with a craft market hosted by Foxes, poetry readings, live music, dance performances, and DJs from George FM. Several super talented up-and-coming artists will be exhibiting in a gallery show at Te Karanga Gallery, and St. Kevin’s arcade and neighbouring shops will be open late with discounts and treats on the night.

First Thursdays is all about fostering a tighter-knit arts community, connecting people and spreading new ideas.

Sound right up your alley?

The organisers are currently looking for talented artists, dancers, musicians, djs & poets!
The application deadline is Friday 1 October 2010.

Check out www.ﬁrstthursdays.co.nz.

A weekend away

2010-08-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

I was down Lyttelton way last weekend (filling in time while the mountains were rained out) so stopped in to visit one of the lovely stockists of Extra Curricular - Portico. Such a delightful wee shop full of treasures, and Maree has made a lovely spring magazine display.

Little Help Project 2

2010-08-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

The Little Help Project offers a $10K start-up package for a new t-shirt label. Run by AS Colour, this is the second year the competition has run and it has just opened for entries! It is an awesome thing to be part of, so if you are creative and like a challenge, start sketching. Take a look at www.littlehelpproject.com.

Coming soon!

2010-07-27T01:55:00.000-07:00

Just a few weeks of sleep deprivation and number 3 is finally at the printers. Watch this space!

Phillipa Cowdrey

2010-07-21T03:26:00.000-07:00

The phenomenally talented Philippa Cowdrey has been up to more creative high-jinks since we caught up with her in Issue 2 of Extra Curricular. Printing totes, doing more of her beautifully detailed illustrations and making awesome new hand-tooled and painted leather rose brooches. We can only hope she gets along to a market or two one of these days...

Minu

2010-07-08T03:46:00.000-07:00

Heike Theis - a.k.a Minu, a talented artist who I am sure you have all heard of - has delightful digital prints available for sale on Felt. These are two of the original paintings - part of her 'Awoke' series. They make me think of dreams...
Minu will be at the New Zealand Art Show from the 29th July to the 1st of August at the TSB Bank Arena in Wellington.

Most Wanted Vintage

2010-07-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Most Wanted is a rad new shop in Aro Valley in Wellington, full of rare vintage finds and a whole heap of 80's awesomeness. You can even hire out 80's balldresses there for $20! Check out the carpet, and the chick on the dressing room door - painted by Xoe Hall.
www.facebook.com/mostwantedvintage

Craft workshops for folks in Wellington

2010-07-02T15:58:00.000-07:00

Tash of OutdoorKnit and Knitsch Yarns is hosting a series of workshops to reveal the mysteries of hand-knit socks. Each ninety minute workshop is held at the lovely workspace at the The New Dowse in Lower Hutt, Wellington.

21 July, 28 July & 4 August at 2pm
or
25 July, 1 August & 8 August at 11am

You can book for the knitting workshops here

Shelley of Sweet William is hosting a series of three ninety minute workshops, also at The New Dowse:

Hoop Love - 4 August at 11am or 8 August at 2pm
For the Love of Corsage - 21 July at 11am or 25 July at 2pm
Needle Felted Friends - 28 July 11am or 1 August at 2pm

Click through to the Craft2.0 felt shop for more info on the Sweet William workshops.

Photographers

2010-06-13T01:49:00.000-07:00

Extra Curricular is looking for talented boys and girls who take photographs in their spare time to feature in the upcoming August issue - does anyone know of any?
(Photo by Miss Sonya Nagels who featured in Issue One).

S'wonderful! S'marvellous!

2010-06-10T03:43:00.000-07:00

More online goodness - now you don't have to go all the way to Wellington to get your Swonderful fix. They've finally opened their online store - great news for us out-of-towners. You can get your hands on lovely treats by Ragdoll Illustrations, Devon Smith, and Papercup Clothing among others.

Foxes shop of design & wonderment

2010-06-09T14:37:00.000-07:00

There are certainly exciting things afoot online as of late! Foxes is a fancy new online shop featuring a hand picked selection of artists & designers, including Dear Colleen, Evie Kemp, R.W Scissors, and Victoria n' Bird. Extra Curricular is also proud to be part of the Foxes family.

Foxes opens on the 25th of July, in the meantime, you can sign up to the mailing list to find out what's happening in the foxes den.

Calling all night class addicts out there...

2010-06-06T15:40:00.000-07:00

Extra Curricular is looking for wonderful night class tutors (and classes) to profile. We are looking for tutors with a passion for their craft - whether it be flax weaving, screen printing, photography or something else creative. Do you know of any?

Katydid Paper Goods Emporium

2010-06-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

Katie Sims has been printing cards with her trusty Gocco for ages, but most recently she opened 'Katydid Paper Goods Emporium', an online store featuring her gorgeous hand printed cards as well as a carefully selected range of new + vintage books, stationery, Japanese washi tape and other papery goodness. It is a feast for the eyes and a must-visit for all stationery addicts.

And she is always coming up with new card designs, like this awesome one - what a clever lass.

Winners!

2010-05-31T15:28:00.000-07:00

Some news to brighten up a few of your rainy Tuesday mornings...
I have drawn the winners for the giveaways in Issue 2, using a true random number generator.

Winner of 'Martha Goes Green: a vegetarian cookbook':
Kathryn Smiley

Winners of 'The Handmade Marketplace' by Kari Chapin:
Anna-Maria Sviatko
Victoria Griffin

And the winners of the Devon Smith print packs:
Ellen Henry
Ike Hendrosoebono

Congratulations to all, and thank you all for your entries and for all the lovely comments that came along with them.

2010-05-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

Extra Curricular is looking for lovely advertisers for Issue 3. The print run has increased to 1000 copies, (which will still be individually hand-numbered), and it comes out in August. If you would like to advertise, take a look at the rates page to the right there, and give us a bell.

you gotta be in it to win it...

2010-05-24T23:46:00.000-07:00

If you have the 2nd issue of Extra Curricular, don't forget to enter the giveaways. Maybe you thought, 'great, I'll do that later, there's heaps of time', so this is just a wee reminder - less than a week to go now!
Winners will be announced right here so stay tuned.

Prime real estate

2010-05-24T18:01:00.000-07:00

On the counter at Mag Nation in Melbourne - thanks Anna-Maria for sending the photo.

Who's Martha?

2010-05-16T04:07:00.000-07:00

Martha Goes Green is a cookbook full of yummy vegetarian recipes independently published by a group of friends who live in Melbourne. It's a cute wee thing (about the size of the Edmonds cookbook), full of deliciousness, and it comes in its own fairtrade organic cotton bag. Rosie, Ruth and Jessica were interviewed for Issue 2, and photographed by the talented Olga Bennet.

One of the questions I asked them was 'Who's Martha?' - I was curious about how they came up with the title. They said, 'We get asked this all the time! Our friend Hazel came up with the name. In a way it references the cooking show queen Martha Stewart, but also the home cook who wants to serve easy tasty food, but is concerned of the effect our diet has on the world around us. So I guess you could say “Martha Goes Green” is all about delicious, familiar and accessible cooking with an eco conscious edge. Oh and we think it’s a pretty cute name!'

So there you go.

If that sounds like what you're into, don't forget to enter the Martha Goes Green cookbook giveaway before the competition closes at the end of the month - details are inside the magazine.

oh my goodness!

2010-04-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

How delighted I was to open my mailbox to find this little package from Louise of Bibliographica! Even though I was expecting it, as I had ordered it at Kraftbomb on the weekend, I was not expecting all the little details, like the personalised envelope, music sheet wrapping, and little scroll note. It is called 'The Key to your Thoughts' and it is a real book! With very deft fingers, Louise has hand bound it and you can write in it, or, I imagine, slip some little photographs between the tiny (2cm x 2cm) pages.

Alledaags

2010-04-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

A man of his word, Toby Morris has busily been working away and all of a sudden has published his book! Alledaags is a collection of all his diary drawings from 2009, a few of which were featured in Issue 1 of Extra Curricular. Alledaags means 'everyday' in Dutch, and the drawings document the trials and tribulations of his daily life in Amsterdam - with a great sense of humour and a staedtler pigment liner. It's a fat hardcover, 125mm x 190mm with 354 pages. Get yours here!

The Handmade Marketplace

2010-04-24T20:56:00.000-07:00

I ordered The Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin some time ago, and have just been waiting for a lazy Sunday afternoon like this one to delve into it. With Kraftbomb finished (what a busy market we had today - thanks for coming everyone!) I have been lazing on the grass with a ginger beer reading; luxury!
So far, I'm up to the bit on blogging - and I'm sure I can learn a thing or two about that! Kari is kindly giving two signed copies away in the second issue of Extra Curricular - don't forget to enter.

Kraftbomb this weekend

2010-04-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

Extra Curricular will be at Kraftbomb this weekend. After you've attended the Anzac Day dawn parade, pop in & say hello. You can eat some of City's yummy cupcakes, have a cup of Fred's homemade lemonade, and find the perfect Mother's Day present.
Sunday 25th April, 11am - 2pm, Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Rd, Auckland.

Good luck!

2010-04-20T15:47:00.000-07:00

I adore Angela Keoghan's illustrations and I'm sure they've captured the attention of many of you since picking up a copy of Issue 2. She has just launched her Etsy store and in celebration is giving away a gorgeous pack including two hand pulled silk screen prints! Visit her website and leave a comment on her giveaway post to go in the draw. Fingers crossed...

Crafternoon Tea today!

2010-04-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

Come on down to Kingsland today - you can pick up a copy of Extra Curricular and do a spot of Mothers' day shopping.
http://crafternoon-tea.blogspot.com/

Extra Curricular Issue 2 is out!

2010-04-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

If you have ordered Issue 2 already, it is on its way to you, perhaps slowly due to Easter holidays, but on the way nonetheless. I've been busy numbering each one and packing them all carefully for their journeys - it's one of the best parts.

Hunting & Gathering

2010-03-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

Whilst happily browsing at Kraftbomb last month, I came across a beautifully presented stall - lovely china ornaments, old suitcases, vintage tablecloths and pretty packaging. It was run by Husband-Wife team Hunter Gatherer, otherwise known as Gem & Nathaniel.

With names like 'I am the smell of roses at your tea party' and 'I am the chair in the sunroom where you read', their pretty bow clips and bow ties transport you to a certain time and place where ladies and gents take tea and scones with lashings of whipped cream.

Gem does lovely illustrations too - as you can see on the 'my woodland friends' cards, done in pen and watercolour.

Hunter Gatherer will be there again this Sunday - you should pop down and see them and all their lovely treasures...

Helena Sofia

2010-03-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

Helena did some great photography for Shelley Thomson's 'Citrus 30' photoshoot project, which was featured in the 1st issue of Extra Curricular. Since then, Helena has gone on to win the Sony/AIPA student photography competition and has got her website up and running. Here are a few of her beautiful landscape images. I get the impression she is often up at dawn to get the perfect shot...

Tonight!

2010-03-03T12:42:00.000-08:00

First Thursdays is on again tonight - and it is even bigger and better than last time, with more crafty peeps in the market section and free cider for everyone! First Thursdays is organised by Cleo Barnett and Lauren Orlina and is a collaborative event comprising of music, performance, art, craft... all things creative.

On from 6-9 pm in St Kevin's Arcade in K Rd. You should check it out.

Kraftbomb this Sunday!

2010-02-25T18:15:00.000-08:00

Yes everyone, the first Kraftbomb of Twenty-Ten is nearly here! Wander down to the Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Rd in Auckland this Sunday to buy direct from the makers, eat a cupcake & have some delicious lemonade. Don't miss it or you'll have to wait another month!

oh Franz!

2010-02-14T00:13:00.000-08:00

Finally Christchurch store Franz Tormers has an online shop, and we can all get a piece of Franz action. Run by Jo, Manolis & Sarah, who also create most of the stuff themselves, you can get awesome totes, tees and prints among other things.

www.franztormers.com

Olga Bennett

2010-02-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

Olga Bennett is a Melbourne photographer who is doing a shoot for the upcoming second issue of Extra Curricular. She photographs people in the environments they live and work in, and uses film, resulting in photographs with a beautiful richness and depth. Her shots have a wonderful candour about them and she has a keen eye for detail. Check out more of her work atwww.olgabennettphotography.com

First Thursdays - THIS Thursday!

2010-02-03T00:36:00.000-08:00

That's tomorrow folks. First Thursdays is held in St Kevins Arcade in K Road from 6pm on the first Thursday of each month - this is only the second one. It's inspired by a Seattle-based event by the same name, and showcases new and exciting talent in the fields of visual arts, music & performance.

I think we should go along and check it out, don't you?

And the winners are...

2010-01-31T12:55:00.000-08:00

We ran 3 competitions in the first issue and drew the winners this morning.

The lucky recipient of the pack of 5 Katydid Gocco-printed cards is Pavani Wijewardene.

Winner of the Miracle & Wonder tote by Miss Ellie May is Kylie Sanders, and Tammy Bruce gets the diplodocus tee from T-shirtopedi a.

Happy Monday everyone! And here's hoping this rain isn't settled in for the day, or we will all be very soggy at the Laneway festival... don't forget your plastic poncho.

Lucky Penny Crafty Club

2010-01-27T01:23:00.000-08:00

The first Lucky Penny of the year is next week!

Tuesday 2nd of Feb, 7.30 onwards, at Mezze Bar,

Durham Lane in Auckland.

You don't even have to take any crafts to work on -

you can just chat if you like.

Be there or be square!

Imaginary Friends

2010-01-17T10:48:00.000-08:00

Devon Smith was featured in the Objects of our Desire section in our first issue, and she's got an exhibition on currently with Sarah McNeil at Bats Theatre in Wellington. Go along, or if you aren't in Wellington, check out her website to get a peek into her wonderful imagination full of pretty girls and their animal friends.

2010-01-16T01:12:00.000-08:00

Toby Morris is one of the people featured in the first issue, talking about his drawing project documenting his daily life in Amsterdam. He finished his project in time for Christmas and it looks like a book might happen! Plans for starting a new project are in the works too, so bookmark his blog to keep an eye on developments.

Here are some more of his awesome drawings.

Extra Curricular - Now in Mag Nation!

2009-12-06T00:53:00.001-08:00

Check it out - nestled right between Creative Review & Curvy...

Ruby Square market

2009-12-03T23:44:00.000-08:00

Extra Curricular will be at Ruby Square Christmas Market tomorrow!

Saturday, 5th of December 9am-1pm

Greyfriars Hall

544 Mt Eden Rd

Auckland

Kraftbomb

2009-11-28T03:36:00.000-08:00

Come on down if you're in the neighbourhood, I'll be there with Extra Curricular if you haven't picked one up yet, and there will be loads of other great Christmas present ideas for your nearest & dearest - such as Ethel & Harriet soy wax teacup candles, and Ruby in the Dust pouches, journals & felt bird kits. Last time I saw some awesome asparagus necklaces by Lily's make believe - great for the person in your life who can't get enough of it!

Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn.

11am - 2pm Sunday 29th November

In the flesh...

2009-11-21T12:12:00.000-08:00

Launch Party at D.O.C.

2009-11-21T11:22:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Amber & Henry and the friendly peeps at D.O.C, we had a great time on Thursday night eating cupcakes, meeting new people and enjoying a few drinks to some great tunes... there was even some reading going on...

You are invited...

2009-11-09T18:34:00.001-08:00

Well it's been a long hard slog but we're finally there, Extra Curricular has gone to the printers and will be available for sale from the 19th of November - to celebrate, we're having a little launch soiree and you're invited. There will be cupcakes & happy hour, and Extra Curricular for sale of course.

Extra curricular, Issue 1

2009-11-09T17:43:00.001-08:00

Extra Curricular is a brand new New Zealand publication dedicated to showcasing people who do interesting creative projects in their spare time as well as encouraging those who wish they did.

Whether they have a 9-5 job, a fledgling business or a young family, the people profiled in Extra Curricular are connected by their passion for keeping the right side of the brain active in their off-hours. They do it for the love of it - driven by a creative urge, they stay up late and work weekends in order to complete their latest side project, whether that’s a new T-shirt design, vandalising an old landscape print or embroidering a picture of Helen Clark.

Extra Curricular is printed in full colour on beautiful recycled stock, with the first issue launching on November 19th. Please contact Ellie at extracurricularnz@gmail.com if you are interested in becoming a stockist or getting your hands on a copy or two.