EP 23: Art Chat w. Phoebe Paradise (Part 1)

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I am calling this art chat because we spoke about a huge range of subjects; her journey, studio, businesses, fashion and art practice, and more! There is no one way to describe her, she is an incredible artist and human being.

This is also PART 1 because we both decided we are going to do a follow up art chat at a later date. We could literally talk for hours!

I hope you enjoy!

About Phoebe Paradise:
A self-taught artist, Phoebe’s commercial illustration practice began in the early 2010s, producing hand-drawn, collaged and xeroxed gig flyers, merchandise designs and record covers for punk bands, indie labels and local venues. Throughout the course of her career, this music community has been a bedrock of support and inspiration for Paradise, who is also well known for her involvement in local underground acts. (Lexicon & Pleasure Symbols most notably). 

In 2014, Phoebe began developing arts merchandise of her own to sell at craft markets, boutiques and the then-burgeoning online marketplace. Inspired by the DIY methodology of her local punk band clientele, the label PARADISE was borne. From humble beginnings of photocopied zines, hand drawn t-shirts and custom-painted vintage leather, the label quickly grew to popular cult status across Australia. In a few short years, the label went on to produce multiple collections of fashion garments and accessories, high profile photoshoots, runways, artist collaborations & pop-up shops.

In early 2020, her focus diverted from retail output by the COVID-19 outbreak, Paradise was unexpectedly commissioned a series of highly visible public art installations which catapulted her work into the wider public eye. The Brisbane City Council’s Outdoor Gallery Program commissioned Paradise to produce several light-box illustrations (installed in Brisbane’s CBD), and an animated projection, entitled Subtropical Surreal, which would go on to become her first Public Art Collection acquisition.

Soon after the success and visibility of these public outcomes, Phoebe was swept up in a whirlwind, year-long national campaign for ‘Behind the Mac’ by Apple. The multi-faceted campaign centered Paradise’s visual arts journey (rather than her fashion designs), and included original illustrations and the recently acquired Subtropical Surreal. This campaign was the start of a change in direction for Paradise’s career, who began a marked pivot away from the label, and instead toward public art & exhibited works. 

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Acknowledgement of Country:
1800-MADBUTT would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and record. We would also like to pay respect to the elders, past, present, and emerging.
MUSIC:
Intro and outro song credit to "With Draco On The Phone".