an Aboriginal Culinary Journey™ | Meet Lucy Simpson, Australian Artist | Breville AU

Summary

Lucy Simpson, a designer and maker based in Sydney, explores the interplay between art and design as mediums for storytelling. She emphasizes the significance of embedding narratives into everyday objects, such as a toaster inspired by native grasses, creating connections to culture and identity. Simpson articulates the concept of 'country' as an extension of self, intertwining responsibility for the land with her creative practice. Her designs reflect themes of fire and its life-giving energy, while she finds peace in her art, showcasing how design can convey profound cultural narratives and foster a deeper connection to heritage.

Takeaways

• 🎨 The distinction between art and design is not significant; both are ways to tell stories.
• 🌍 Lucy Simpson emphasizes the importance of landscape, color, and memories in her creative process.
• 👩‍🎨 Lucy identifies as a designer and maker, focusing on connections to story and place.
• 📚 The exchange of design allows stories to become part of others' lives, enhancing personal journeys.
• 🌾 The design for the toaster embeds narratives about native grasses, seeds, and bread-making practices.
• 💫 Objects with embedded stories provide meaningful daily connections for users.
• 🏞️ Designs reflect the cultural significance of country, identity, and belonging.
• 🔥 Fire is a central theme, representing life, energy, and responsibilities to care for country.
• 🖌️ Creating art brings Lucy a sense of peace and a feeling of being at home.
• 🌿 The practice of embedding stories in everyday objects highlights the beauty and functionality of design.

Q & A

How does Lucy Simpson define the relationship between art and design?

Lucy Simpson does not distinguish much between art and design; she views them as different mediums and techniques for telling a story.

What elements does Lucy focus on in her storytelling?

Lucy emphasizes the landscape, colors of the earth, memories, and the sky, aiming to communicate their beauty and connection.

What roles does Lucy identify in her professional practice?

Lucy identifies herself as both a designer and a maker, focusing on creating connections to stories and places.

What is the significance of the design created for the toaster oven?

The toaster oven design incorporates narratives of native grasses and seeds, reflecting the processing of seeds and traditional knowledge.

How does Lucy describe the role of objects in her practice?

Lucy describes objects as embedded with stories that become part of the lives and journeys of those who use them.

What does Lucy mean by 'country' in her work?

For Lucy, 'country' represents an extension of identity and culture, emphasizing a connection beyond the physical place.

What does the design of the toaster oven symbolize according to Lucy?

The design symbolizes fire, which Lucy describes as life, energy, and a spark that reflects both ceremonial and practical responsibilities.

How does Lucy feel when she is creating and making?

Lucy expresses a sense of peace when she is creating, feeling at home in her mind, spirit, and body.

What does Lucy hope to achieve through her design work?

Lucy aims to create beautiful and meaningful designs that connect users to narratives and sustain everyday practices.

In what way does Lucy's work reflect a broader cultural responsibility?

Lucy's work reflects a responsibility to care for country and engage with seasonal and ceremonial practices, linking personal identity with cultural heritage.