New Zealand’s creative community have produced some incredible things as a result of the tumultuous year of lockdowns. From pivoting and reinventing themselves, to starting that creative endeavour they always dreamed of, this May we are excited to welcome several emerging new brands into the General Collective whānau at the Glasshouse Market.
The Cosy Lab was founded in 2020 by Aucklander Libby Caughey, a specialist in textiles who is passionate about supporting New Zealand made products and industry. During lock down, she discovered the joy of cocooning, and decided to create products to help nurture this experience for others. After all, who doesn’t need a Wearable Heat Shrug or want to come home and put their cold feet into a Foot Cosy? The Cosy Lab source all their materials locally, products are handmade and their heated products all use Lupin seeds instead of wheat which means they remain dry and odourless when heated.
Natures Grace was founded in September 2020, by Gael Ogilvie, an environmental scientist of over forty years, on a mission to inspire people to look after the natural environment. Using stunning photos of New Zealand’s endangered animals and plants to create puzzles and stationary, all products are made locally using environmentally-friendly materials, manufacturers and suppliers. A portion of profits also goes to community trusts carrying out conservation work.
“I wanted to use my creativity to help New Zealanders connect with our special biodiversity to better understand what we will lose if we continue to live in ways that advance climate change and degrade our natural environment,” says Gael.
Vanessa Morgan of OMni has a long history with natural skincare, holistic wellness and sustaining a chemical-free home. In early 2020, due to customer demand, she set about re-formulating the original OMni products and extending the range to include radiant zinc, she also developed new packaging – but the re-launch was brought to a halt by Covid-19.
“Lockdown, as for many of us, was a time of reflection and an uncertain future. I had to seriously consider my options ... commit uncertain resources into my small business or put my dreams aside. After a lot of soul searching I decided I just couldn't let my dreams go. It feels more important to me than ever to ensure I follow my heart, and set that example to my son that if you want something enough you can make it happen,” she says.
Meet these inspiring makers and many more at the upcoming Glasshouse Market on 30 May 2021. Each Glasshouse market is carefully curated to ensure the highest quality. Visit our online map for the full range of Kiwi creatives – come and see the difference.
Event Details
Glasshouse, 18 McDonald Street, Morningside, Auckland
Sunday 30 May 2021, 9am - 2pm
FREE entry
