Flavia Rose is an emerging artist and creative raised in Dunedin and based in Wellington. She sat down with Critic’s Art Editor, Monique Hodgkinson, for ten quick questions about all things whimsical and lovely.
Describe your artistic style in three words.
Delicate, whimsical, curious.
What different mediums have you worked in so far?
I started out in photography and cinematography while working at Dunedin’s local news studio in high school, and learnt cane sculpture while volunteering at the Dunedin Midwinter Carnival. During university I dabbled in theatre, film, animation, jewellery, 3D printing, wearable art and wearable technology. My first job out of university was as a model maker for Weta Workshops. Now, I work as an animation tutor and graphic designer and make embroidery in my free time.
And which have you enjoyed the most?
All of them! I like to be a creative generalist and pick up new skills as I go. Currently, I’m enjoying the challenge of making garments for the World of Wearable Art – making art that can be worn on the body is so hard, but so fulfilling.
Tell us about your favourite art project so far.
I am most proud of the work I did on Ghost in the Shell while I was at Weta Workshop. The geisha masks I helped make are so beautiful and eerie at the same time. I’m really excited for the film to come out at the end of March!
What do you love the most about creating art?
I think it’s a powerful thing to be able to create rather than just consume. It is such a great feeling to make something instead of buying it.
What artists or creatives do you look to for inspiration?
Anyone who is better than me at anything. In my studies, I’d see who was the smartest or best in the class and then slowly sidle up to them and try to figure out what made them so good. I’ve always liked to surround myself with clever, creative people and quietly take notes on what makes them so special.
Your embroidered necklaces are super adorable. Where did you get the idea?
Thank you! I stumbled across some tiny embroidery on Etsy one day and desperately wanted one, but couldn’t afford the exorbitant shipping costs to New Zealand. So I taught myself how to make them instead.
Have you found much of a difference between the art scenes in Dunedin and Wellington?
I think Wellington’s art scene is much more hyped than Dunedin’s, yet Dunedin’s creative people have a wealth of knowledge that makes it a fantastic place to learn. However, I’ve found that Wellington has more opportunities to actually earn.
Do you have any advice for young’uns starting out in a creative career?
If you’re freelancing or working for yourself, give your creative life structure by establishing a routine to make the most of your time and energy. Enthusiasm and adaptability will take you far. Only work for free if it’s something you truly believe in.
What do you see yourself doing sixteen years from now?
Getting paid to make really cool stuff!
You can check out more of Flavia’s work at cargocollective.com/flaviarose or @flavi_rose on Instagram. She also takes custom embroidery orders at flavia.yellow@gmail.com.