Print Life

Welcome to another episode of the Print Life Podcast, where we delve into the realms of art, design, and the fashion industry. Today, we discuss a topic that is dear to our hearts - the significance of embracing artistic integrity and exploring design in all its forms.

Main Episode Points:

• The idea of getting comfortable enough in your own artistic integrity to look at other artists' work.
• The importance of studying good design, art, and aesthetics in various forms: catwalk, surface pattern design, print design, graphic art, or graffiti art.
• The value of being informed by the catwalk and the marketplace, which can be just as beneficial and inspiring as other sources.
• The significance of understanding what our clients see, determining what they might be after for their next buys, and aligning with their audience's tastes.

I hope this episode has inspired you to embrace artistic exploration and integrity in your own way in your work. If you'd like to discuss this topic further or join us on the podcast, don't hesitate to reach out and book a call.

See you next time!

Leslie Kenehan

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In this episode we get to know Roberta Montorfano, founder of Betta Designs. Roberta is an Italian-Mexican artist. Raised in Como, Italy, she grew up steeped in the vivid interplay of colors, textiles, history, and art.

For Roberta, the art of storytelling is embodied in design, art, photography, and colors.  

After immersing herself in textile design for five years in Italy, and actively participating in textile fairs across the globe, a turning point emerged in 2013. Fueled by a deep-seated passion and the pursuit of her dreams, she made the choice to pack her bags and set her sights on Sydney. 

After a few years of calling Australia home, Roberta created her studio, Betta Design in 2015. She believes that everyone can tell stories through design, art, photography and colours. That they are all a portrait of your soul, history, family and generation you carry with you.

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Exploring the soulful journey of authenticity. Join us to deep dive into the significance of authenticity—the key to unlocking a style that is uniquely yours. This episode is a voyage of self-discovery within your creative process, an infusion of the unexpected, and a commitment to artistic integrity. 

Learn how revisiting your past works becomes a catalyst for discovering your authentic style. Embrace experimentation, and embark on a creative adventure that resonates with the essence of who you are. This episode is a tribute to the beauty of enjoying the process and finding joy in every creative endeavor.

Let's dive in!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In today's episode, we'll explore two distinct approaches to developing your signature style in surface pattern design. We'll discuss the importance of committing to a consistent practice and delve into the three phases that designers can repeatedly navigate to continually refine and explore their unique style. Join us as we uncover practical insights to shape your design journey. Ready to commit to your practice and explore the evolving phases of your design style? Let's dive in on Day 03 of The Style Series!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Welcome back to the Style Series! Today, we are reconnecting with our origin story to inspire us forward on our journey toward uncovering our signature style. 

🌟 Recalling Your Origin Story:
Think back to that magical moment when you realized being an artist or designer was your true calling. Reconnect with what sparked your creative flame—

Was it a product, a feeling, or a magical creative moment? Rediscover why print design became your chosen path.  By reconnecting with your artistic origin, you're not just reminiscing; you're gaining insights that will shape your evolving style. It's a reminder of your unique journey and the passion that propels you!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In this episode of the Print Life Podcast, we kick off the Style Series—a four-part exploration inspired by the 2020 Style Challenge. Having guided nearly 400 participants through the challenge, it's the perfect time to bring it to the podcast. Join us as we delve into the importance of identifying your "why" when it comes to developing a signature style, the myriad benefits it brings to your creative journey, and practical approaches to implementation.

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Welcome to another episode of  The Print Life Podcast! This week we are diving in to the evolution from creative hobbyist to the creative entrepreneur.

Join Leslie to chat about the common hesitations many creatives face when pondering the viability of turning their passion for design into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. We discuss the power of stepping into the role of a creative entrepreneur, shedding light on the mindset shifts and transformative experiences that come with embracing this title.

Exploring the understanding that continuous learning and growth are at the heart and soul of your creative journey. Gain valuable insights into working smarter, not harder, incorporating entrepreneurial strategies, and implementing systems to streamline their creative process. The episode also introduces practical tools like ChatGPT and Later to ease the entrepreneurial path, making it more accessible and rewarding.

Keep creating, keep growing, and keep embracing your journey as a creative entrepreneur!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Today we are diving into another artist interview, join me to welcome Kirsty Milloy. Kirsty is a fashion print designer who while working in-house for retail brands experienced an unexpected moment which made her re-consider her dreams. She aspires to build a studio-of-one which creates print collections for youthful brands who want to WOW!

Kirsty’s style is versatile and fresh and she loves combining hand illustrated and painted elements to create impactful and colorful art. Inspired by digital art, vintage kitsch and nature, Kirsty’s mission is to design prints that make you feel good wearing them. 

You can connect with Kirsty here https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsty-milloy-145b3422/

or check out her work here  https://www.instagram.com/kirstymilloy/

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Hello, creatives! In this week's episode, I'm diving into the chaos that often comes with January—the month packed with enticing growth opportunities, new challenges, and a sense of urgency. But, here's the truth: the rush might lead straight to overwhelm.

Join me as we explore the powerful shift from 'I have to' to 'I get to.' It's all about reframing our approach to tasks or projects in our creative journey. I'll share some eye-opening examples of how this simple switch can transform our mindset and productivity. It's all about intentional, deliberate steps forward. Tune in and let's embrace a more purposeful and fulfilling creative journey together.

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In this episode, we delve into the power of envisioning our aspirations, challenging self-imposed labels, and embracing consistency as a key to success. Here's a brief recap:

• Clarifying Vision: Encouragement to pause and envision what's desired in life and career, reflecting on steps taken towards those goals.
• Overcoming Labels: Addressing the labels we place on ourselves, recognizing they often act as self-imposed barriers to growth.
• The Consistency Challenge: Highlighting the significance of consistency and its relation to overcoming procrastination, fear, and perfectionism.
• Embracing Courage: Pledging to leave behind fear-driven mindsets in the upcoming year, embracing courage, gratitude, and a proactive approach to reaching dreams.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts! What's your commitment for the new year?

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Welcome to this week's podcast episode! Today, let's dive into the concept of embracing the new year by fully committing to your creative vision. At a recent marketing conference, a quote from Julius Caesar was shared that struck a chord with me: 'If you want to take the island, you have to burn the boats.' This resonated with me so much. Often as creatives, we build many revenue streams at once claiming we are multi passionate, we allow fear or doubt about how saturated the space be the reason we don't try to go after what we want. We keep back up jobs in our mind as an out if things don't work. We want that guarantee that it will work if we go after our big goals.

As we transition into the new year, let's focus instead on being decisive, building one thing at a time and committing to the results we want leaving no room for doubt or a backup plan. When we commit, fear dissipates, doubts fade, and we confidently step into the role required to bring that dream to life. That's the mindset I'm encouraging as we step into 2024. Are you ready to burn the boats and fully commit to your creative journey?!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In today's episode of the Print Life Podcast, we dive in to the importance of understanding what a niche and target market truly represent in your career as a surface pattern designer. Understanding these concepts is crucial to find success in our journey of selling art to a commercial industry. Contrary to the belief that artists must struggle, hoping someone will buy their work, success lies in identifying the needs of our clients and finding a way to meet them in the middle without compromising on our art too much. 

It's important to know that we are not defined solely by our niche; both our niche and target audience can evolve over time. We cannot solely rely on 'build it and they will come' mentality but rather understand that our sweet spot is where our intuition and intention unite. 

Enjoy!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In today's design landscape, establishing an online shop is more crucial than ever, whether you're a freelancer or a seasoned studio. The Pattern Cloud eliminates the ambiguity of setting up your online print shop, providing a comprehensive solution from inception to execution.

Join me for an insightful interview with James Hartley, Tracy Brown, and Sophie Rolley, where we delve into their individual studios' journeys and unravel the genesis of The Pattern Cloud. As a game-changer in the industry, The Pattern Cloud sets a new standard, catering to the high expectations of clients when they shop prints online.

Get firsthand insights, exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, and learn how The Pattern Cloud is revolutionizing the online print sales landscape.

Don't miss this episode to gain invaluable insights! And if you decide to join, click the link to their site below to access their latest deal for designers to join.

https://www.thepatterncloud.com/

(I am not an affiliate for the Pattern Cloud)

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Join me today to learn how you can take just 20% of your time weekly to focus on tasks that will move the needle in your creative career. This is something we do in the Print Life Membership and has been responsible for much success in my own career, studio and print agency. Take it from someone who runs multiple businesses during part time hours....this rule is key!!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In the world of surface pattern design, there's this funny idea that choosing a unique path boxes you in. But what if I told you that it is in choosing a path is more like a secret superpower? Join us in this episode as we let you in on the not-so-serious secret of wrapping your creativity with intention, authority, and a big boost of confidence. Get ready to discover what can transform your design career from overwhelm to creative flow. 

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Join me today to chat about how a simple shift in the way you look at your numbers, where you spend your time and managing expectations can support you in staying the course in your freelance business.  Go from hobbyist to business owner with these small tweaks in how you look at your income, your numbers, followers or client list. 

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In today's episode of the Print Life Podcast, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of the surface pattern design industry and discuss essential strategies for success in your career. With some trade shows discontinuing, it's important to adapt to the changing industry dynamics.

We explore the significance of trade shows in our industry and the implications of their evolving status and outline some key marketing strategies that can support you going forward.

• Email Marketing
• Establishing an Online Shop
• Collaborating with Studios on Consignment
• Building a Strong Art and Design Practice

Regardless of your chosen strategy, a strong presence on social media platforms is essential in today's digital age and demands a commitment to long-term planning and consistency. Every choice you make should align with your ultimate business goals.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and remember to stay inspired and keep creating.

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Welcome to another episode of "Design Tip Friday"! 🌟 

Today's design tip revolves around the idea of creating multiple motifs for your designs before you put them into repeat. We can often get stuck in creating just a few motifs and putting those into repeat which can often end up looking a little cheap or have that 'stamped on' feel. 

Join me today for a quick chat on how you can add a bit more personality and variety to your designs by leaning in to imperfections in your art.

Happy Friday! 🌟

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

Welcome to todays Artist Interview with  freelance fashion print designer, Alex Solly.

Alex worked in-house as a designer for 10 years, working for a variety of high street suppliers, brands and retailers, before making taking the plunge and going freelance about 3 years ago.

Working predominantly with the high street womenswear market, she has a commercial hand and loves creating florals, animal prints and textures.

Join us today to chat about Alex's creative journey so far, what she has been up to and a bit of advice to those of you who are thinking about going freelance. Alex is a wonderful example of how freelancing in this industry is not only possible, but fulfilling. Want to follow along her creative journey? Head over to https://www.instagram.com/alexsollydesign/

Enjoy!

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

In this special episode of the Print Life Podcast, we're bringing you an exclusive recording of one of our live workshops from the PLM members' area. Although this workshop includes visuals, the valuable insights and techniques shared are extremely relevant for surface pattern designers who work with briefs or face challenges in this area.

During the workshop,Leslie will dive in to the intricacies of working with a design brief. She shares her years of experience and knowledge, providing valuable tips and strategies to help designers not only understand but excel in this crucial aspect of the industry.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the world of surface pattern design, this workshop will offer valuable insights into working effectively with briefs, refining your design process, and ultimately elevating your career.

So, grab your favorite notebook and a cup of coffee and let's dive in! 

For more information about working together, visit:

https://lesliekenehan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/