WHO IS THIS LADY?
Once upon a time, in a world steeped in threads and needles, a remarkable lineage of seamstresses shaped my destiny. Oh, how I marvelled at the sight of my mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother stitching away when I was just a wee little one. Their nimble fingers danced across fabrics, weaving tales of craftsmanship that enchanted my heart. And so, it was no surprise that I embarked on my own sewing journey, armed with a European degree in garment manufacturing.
The most unforgettable part of my sewing adventures during one of Alice Cooper’s illustrious World Tours was to revamp and alter some of Mr. Cooper’s flamboyant costume pieces for his magnificent shows. I must express my utmost gratitude to the one and only Godfather of Shock Rock Alice Cooper for granting me this exhilarating privilege. It was a moment that still makes me pinch myself in disbelief.
Now, let me transport you to my current abode, nestled upon the picturesque shores of Tasmania—the land of unspoiled beauty and nature’s grandeur. From our beautiful place, we are blessed with a panoramic view that stretches across valleys and embraces the majestic eastern mountains. Ah, the air here, forever crisp and clean, whispers sweet nothings into my ears, accompanied by the melodious symphony of birdsong. Perhaps it is the enchantment of these idyllic surroundings that has heightened my creative energies. It is here, over the past several years, that I have delved into the realm of costume design, letting my imagination run wild.
In my quest for knowledge, the threads of history have intricately woven themselves into my soul. As I delve into the history of sewing, I find myself captivated by the sheer beauty of garments from the 16-17th Centuries and of course the Golden Age of Piracy. An obsession, you say? Perhaps! For every waking moment, I find myself consumed by visions of that bygone era. Whether it be elegant clothing, exquisite headwear, or captivating accessories, my hands are ceaselessly engaged in bringing forth the essence of that extraordinary time. Working class clothing from that era has a very special place in my heart, I’d love to just sit and only make hand stitched costume pieces. Strange as it may seem, I feel an inexplicable connection to that time—perhaps a reincarnated seamstress or even a wayward time traveller, forever yearning for the key to my lost time machine.
Alas, my Lords and my Ladies, I must confess that I have chosen to bid adieu to the world of commissions. I’m going to focus on making costume pieces for sale & bartering. The treasure chest with beautiful fabrics, trims, and other embellishments is patiently waiting for me to start. My heart yearns to pour forth my creative energies into my own designs inspired by the history, nature, and the magic that surrounds us all.
Long live the thread, the needle, and the legacy of handmade costumes!
Yours whimsically,
Anna, the Seamstress.