It’s Coming! The Finders Keepers Market Is Sydney-Bound (And Bigger Than Ever)
Start saving those pennies, Sydneysiders, because The Finders Keepers Autumn Winter Markets are just around the corner. And this time around, the Carriageworks event (running from 3-5 May 2024) is set to feature the wares of more than 160 designers and makers.
Of these, some 50-plus creators are making their Finders Keepers debut, which means you’ll have a whole lot of new goodies to peruse. Plus, there will be DJs to set the vibe (and a sensory hour for those who like things hushed), as well as kids’ crafts, tasty tipples and snacks by local faves Yulli’s, Miss Sina and Mapo Gelato.
So, shopping lists at the ready… We’ve caught up with five standout stallholders to get the lowdown on their wares and what kind of treasures they’ll be bringing to the big smoke.
image above SAMEE LAPHAM
AMY CLARKE / CONFETTI REBELS
Tell us about what you make!
I design fun, vibrant and empowering apparel and accessories for women, men and those that identify. My products often feature whiz-bang bold colours that cater to those who embrace a youthful, cheeky and energetic style.
What inspires you to do what you do?
Up until a few years ago, I always worried about what others thought of me and I let it lower my confidence to the point where I never felt like the real me. Until I learnt the art of not caring about what others think – and before I saw how much my apparel resonates with my customers – I was never really inspired by much, to be honest!
What can market-goers look forward to seeing at your stall?
Lots of colour! Bold and ‘out there’ slogan tees, fun and quirky accessories, and must-have rainbow tulle skirts! Oh, and I love to chew the fat with anyone that’s up for it!
For you, what makes the creative community special?
We support each other! We know the hardships of working to try to inspire others. But most of all, we get the level of passion and dedication that our fellow creatives feel! It’s not a nine-to-five job, but it’s worth it when you have an amazing community around you, especially at markets – whether it’s minding your stall for toilet breaks, or offering to buy you a coffee when you’re too busy talking to customers to leave for a caffeine hit!
MONIKA LENCSE / MONIKA LENCSE ART
Tell us about what you make!
Whimsical hanging ceramic sea creatures and fantasy animals with real air plants for your home and friends – they’re the perfect gift, really. My Dragon Monsters are the mischievous personalities in us all.
Each piece is meticulously crafted by hand, allowing their unique personalities to shine through. You can collect them and create a community of fantasy and whimsy.
What inspires you to do what you do?
As an artist, my passion for ceramics stems from my deep fascination with plants and animals. I love capturing the delicate details, textures and forms. Nature is so beautiful to me.
What can market-goers look forward to seeing at your stall?
A secret garden filled with floating sea creatures in every colour, shade and texture I can replicate. I’ll also have a corner filled with Dragon Monsters that you’ll fall in love with. They’re perfect in their delightful imperfections.
For you, what makes the creative community special?
We open up each other’s minds in different creative ways. Nothing makes me happier than seeing another person connect emotionally with my work.
ADAMA KAMARA / JUST SHEA
Tell us about what you make!
Just Shea makes skincare products that draw inspiration from my West African heritage. Each product aims to showcase the diverse cultures of Africa, its unique ingredients and beauty secrets.
What inspires you to do what you do?
It’s a passion project through which I can share the stories and beauty practices of Africa. With each product, I want people to learn about ingredients that are unique to the continent, their benefits and how they were used traditionally.
What can market-goers look forward to seeing at your stall?
They’ll be introduced to an African beauty secret: shea butter. It’s the hero ingredient in Shea Body Balm, our flagship product. Made from the nut of the shea tree that grows in East and West Africa, it has exceptional moisturising qualities and offers long-lasting hydration. It can be used all over the body – on skin, hair, nails and feet – and can even be used as a cooking oil.
We’ll also have two limited-edition Naked Body Butters in unscented and lemon, available exclusively at The Finders Keepers’ Sydney market.
For you, what makes the creative community special?
I find that it’s so supportive. There’s a deep appreciation for the work involved in creating, from concept to development to refining ideas and then making the final product. I love the camaraderie at events such as Finders Keepers.
ALASDAIR CHEW / WOOL2YARN
Tell us about what you make!
At Wool2Yarn we make luxuriously soft alpaca knitwear and yarns from the beautiful fleece of our own alpacas. We’re based on the Mornington Peninsula and we do every single part of the process ourselves, from shearing to shelf, to create a truly unique 100% Australian-made product. Our newest range comprises recycled fibres to eliminate as much textile waste as possible.
What inspires you to do what you do?
Our hand-dyed yarn colours are inspired by our incredible surroundings: the brilliant colours of the parrots, the muted tones of the bush and the moody blues of the bay.
We also believe in the concept of mindful making. We only produce knitwear when stock levels are low and we make a huge effort to use up and recycle every bit of scrap yarn. Minimal waste, maximum style!
What can market-goers look forward to seeing at your stall?
We’re working hard on designing a new range of knits using our recycled fibres. Each one will be totally unique, comprising a multitude of colours. We’ll also have an array of pretty hand-dyed yarns for the creative knitters out there.
For you, what makes the creative community special?
We learn a lot from our creative community – everyone has interesting ideas. Whether you’re creating for work or as a hobby, it’s about the journey with all its ups and downs. We can all help, listen and be kind to each other.
WAYDE CLARKE / ALEJANDRO LAUREN
Tell us about what you make!
I create art and installations that weave together the rich traditions of Aboriginal culture with the vibrant essence of LGBTQIA+ identity, exploring themes of self-discovery and belonging. My work serves as a colourful bridge between diverse worlds, inviting viewers into a dialogue about identity, perception and the human experience.
What inspires you to do what you do?
My inspiration comes from a strong desire to express my identity, which is complex as I identify as both Aboriginal and as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. The range of emotions we experience as humans, such as love, grief and happiness, are the source of my creativity and I explore these themes through my art.
I am motivated by a yearning to connect with others and to start meaningful conversations that promote understanding. Above all, I’m committed to making sure everyone feels acknowledged and represented in my work, as I firmly believe that art has the power to bring people together and promote healing.
What can market-goers look forward to seeing at your stall?
Visitors can immerse themselves in my bright artwork, which weaves together stories of my life experiences, reflecting my journey of identity and belonging. Each piece, whether it’s captivating depictions of flowers or more abstract explorations, is infused with fun and colour, inviting onlookers into a world where every hue tells a story.
Beyond the visuals, attendees will find a space where culture, love and the human experience intersect, offering a unique perspective that champions diversity and inclusivity. It’s an opportunity to connect with art that beautifies spaces and embodies a profound longing for representation and connection.
For you, what makes the creative community special?
It brings together diverse voices and visions. It offers a unique perspective to explore the depths of the human experience. This community is a space where boundaries are pushed, and new ideas are born, creating an environment of support and inspiration among artists.
It also celebrates the individuality of each artist and promotes collective growth, making it a powerful force for social change and understanding. Through shared experiences of love, grief, happiness and a yearning to connect, The Finders Keepers creative community ensures that every story, no matter how nuanced, is heard and valued.
