Lelly's Collection
Meet the Artist
Ever wanted to know more about the talent behind our prints? Come sit down with us as we chat with the artists, and learn more about them and their day-to-day life.
Tell us a bit about yourself:
Hello there! My name is Lesley Barnes and Michal (my daughter) has asked me to share a little about myself.
I grew up in the 60s/70s on a lucerne farm outside of Rockhampton, QLD. At 19 I married my loving husband and not long after we were blessed with 2 gorgeous children. I loved being a stay-at-home mum, able to do all the mummy things and still indulge in my hobbies of sewing kids clothes and folk art. I even sold some of my creations at some markets and fetes. We spent the last 30+ years living on our 60-acre “farm” where we raised our kids but now as empty-nesters we are looking forward to moving to the Sunshine Coast to be closer to family. We’re eager to spend our free time doing what we love, for me that’ll be baking, sewing (especially quilts and laundry bags for AHQ) and painting (for Cloth Cuts when designs are needed). But, we’re mostly looking forward to all the family time with our kids and grandkids.
How long have you been drawing for?
While I had a love for drawing at a young age from watching my grandfathers draw, I had never actually picked up a paintbrush until after my two children were born. I took a couple of folk art classes which was all the craze back in the 90s.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I mostly go off requests from Michal, as to what Cloth Cuts is needing at the time.
What is the most exciting thing you’ve seen your artwork on?
I just love seeing the fabrics come through, and I usually get early sneak peeks which is quite exciting. And also the fact that other people are creating something using my art.
What is your favourite style at the moment?
I love the softness of watercolours and the way it all blurs and blends together.
