I’m the embroiderer/creator of EmbroiTherese. I use needle and thread to make pictures of lovely things like dinosaurs, dogs and beer, as well as custom pet portraits. I also work in a bookstore.
Why do you do it?
It’s never occurred to me not to do it. I’ve always needed creative outlets, so it’s just part of life.
What do you love about the city you live in?
It’s the people of Brisbane that make it oh so excellent (I guess buildings and what not help too). It’s hard not to be inspired by so much talent and energy.
Where did you go for your last holiday?
I accidentally neglected our lovely home turf in favour of overseas travel so I went to Tasmania a few months ago. We’ve gotta be more conscious of the fact that here in Oz we have just as many swell places to experience and explore.
What's your favourite item of clothing? Why?
I tried for a long time to find shirts that have dogs on them. They’re hard to find, so I sewed myself a whole bunch and now I have five shirts with dogs on them.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid?
When I was little I used to watch 'Better Homes And Gardens' with my Mum. We’d both wear headphones that were plugged into the TV so as to drown out the laughter of my dad and sister watching 'Funniest Home Videos' in the other room. I think it was my Mum’s passion for sewing that prompted me to pick up needle and thread.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go?
I’d definitely go back to the cretaceous period so I could hang out with some rad dinosaurs.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook for us?
Shuk Shuka – baked eggs and tomato are the bottom half of the food pyramid, don’t you know.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
It doesn’t really matter too much what other folks think about you.
Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else knows...
This. Is impossible. I’m an open book, 'cause I talk too much.
Are you happy with your work/life balance?
Life is a steady (sometimes extreme) ebb and flow but I count myself really lucky to have two jobs that challenge me and foster my mind, creativity and social self so much.
How do you define success?
Success scares the pants off me. So, I guess, it’s scary? Nothing makes me strive more for success than fearing it – it’s like how you go sky diving to overcome a fear of heights. Right?
What's your spirit animal?
Maybe a goat…
