Founded by Sarah Kelk in 2011 and joined by her sister Helen Adam in 2013, Hello Polly (named after the pair’s grandmother) is a vibrant and creative homeware mecca thoughtfully curated to bring you unique and inspirational artwork and design. Their bespoke homeware collection celebrates their unique style and includes a vibrant and eclectic mix of giclee art prints, knitted merino cushions and throws.
Our co-founder Lucy Glade-Write had the pleasure of visiting Sarah in her home studio in Carlton North as part of the 2016 edition of the Hunting Collective. Her space is littered with imagery, neatly arranged or tucked away for future reference. Her studio is cozy and welcoming with a comfortable couch in the perfect position to watch Sarah paint. “I was surprised to watch how Sarah starts her paintings – extremely quick with dry layers of paint, Sarah builds on each layer without a moments hesitation and lets the markings dictate its direction.” said Lucy.
Artist, creator, and founder of the brand Hello Polly, Sarah Kelk’s expressive, colourful and abstract paintings are often the starting point for other design projects for the brand. Her approach is fluid and intuitive, filling a canvas with layers of both colour and texture. Sarah is based in Melbourne, but grew up on the South Island of New Zealand. Having spent a decade working in the art and design industry, Sarah is finally bringing her own ideas to life on canvas.
Like the sisters themselves, the Hello Polly Home collection is colourful and quirky, versatile and fun. The line continues Hello Polly’s focus on unique, affordable and quality design the supports the local industry. All products in the Hello Polly Home collection are proudly designed by the sisters and manufactured in Melbourne, working with neighbouring printers and textile manufacturers. The sister’s shared sense of style and keen eye for design has led to a natural working relationship, meaning the pair have worked together on every aspect of the project.
We took ten with artist, creator and mother, Sarah Kelk.
1. What did you want to be when you grew up?
Funnily enough, I wanted to be a TV cooking show host. Needless to say, growing up, there was a lot of practice going on in the family kitchen.
2. When and what was the moment that prompted you to start your own brand?
My sister Helen and I had often talked about creating our own brand within Hello Polly and it wasn’t until I began painting (after a few years break, having kids, travelling etc.) that the initial collection starting coming together.
My artwork plays a big part in the Hello Polly brand, as it’s often the starting point for colour combinations and textures, which we then apply to other products within our range. I’m also lucky enough to spend a lot of time working on original paintings, which I’m LOVING! I’m the happiest when I’ve spent a day in front of a huge canvas in my studio!
3. In 3 words, describe your occupation.
Artist, multi-tasker, optimistic.
4. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I’m a firm believer of the ‘do it now policy’. I use it every day, and it helps me immensely in getting those annoying but necessary tasks ticked off my to-do list. I have to thank Helen for sharing this great bit of wisdom with me, and those who know me, will attest to the fact that I’ll often (and potentially annoyingly) pass this bit of wisdom on!
5. What is your favourite outlet to get the juices flowing?
To spend a whole, uninterrupted day, painting in the studio. I usually come out of a day in the studio with more ideas that I started the day with, which for me, is a real sign that I’m doing I’m on the right track.
6. Where do you see yourself and the brand in 10 years time?
I’m learning not to be too rigid with planning, instead, trying to go with my gut instincts when things as they pop up. In saying that, in 10 years time, I do know I’ll still be painting, and would love to still be designing alongside my sister.
7. If you could invite any five celebrities to dinner, who would be on the guest list?
Bill Murray, Sonia Delaunay, David Attenborough, Thom Yorke, Jenny Kee
8. What was the last rule you broke?
I’m often the first to take a sneaky pic on my phone even when there’s a sign saying ‘No Photography’ – oops!
9. Do you have any hidden talents?
I’d like to think I can pull together a tasty meal even when the cupboards are bare. A skill handed down by my Mum and Grandmother!
10. What was the last movie you saw and was it any good?
LaLa Land – loved it!
It’s no secret that we have a big creative crush on Sarah Kelk. Her expressive paintings make you feel at peace as perfectly balanced colours and shapes manage to float in front of you whilst fixed in place. Much like her personality, her work is open and invigorating. We also love that all products in the Hello Polly Home collection are proudly designed by the sisters and manufactured in Melbourne, working with neighbouring printers and textile manufacturers.
Hello Polly helps promote the amazing work from talented artists and designers (like Sarah Kelk) whilst keeping quality design accessible and affordable to everyone. We also love that all products in the Hello Polly Home collection are proudly designed by the sisters and manufactured in Melbourne, working with neighbouring printers and textile manufacturers.
A playlist curated by artist, painter, designer, mum and all round optimist, Sarah Kelk!
