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Meet Will Lynes – Specialising in traditional hand painted sign-writing, murals and decorative glass artistry. Will shares his love off all things decayed and some of the projects he is most proud of.
Firstly, how did you first become involved with sign writing/artistry/design?
I have always been interested in letter forms and construction of all types from a young age. I spent over 10 years working as a decorative artist and as such had access to a variety of textural finishes… In my spare time I used to recreate what’s commonly referred to as a ghost sign… combining my love of letters and finishes to emulate the natural ageing process. I guess it all started there and just kept going.
Tell us about how Lynes & CO. was born.
I guess it came from reaching a point in my career where I really wanted to focus primarily on sign painting, and more specifically on glass. I took the step to go out on my own and to be honest wasn’t sure how it was going to turn out. It’s been a steep learning curve starting my own business but I’m fortunate to be doing something I love.
Are you currently working on any exciting projects you can tell us about?
I was recently commissioned by a company called Colossal Media from New York to create a bespoke glass sign for their shop. The sign will include a number of traditional sign painting techniques all painted in reverse and using 23, 16, and 12 Karat gold leafs with Abalone shell inlays. Creating one off pieces on glass is my ideal job… I love it! So I’m looking forward to this one… and I really respect Colossal and what they do.. their work is amazing.
If you weren’t a Sign Painter & Decorative Glass Artist you’d be…
I’d probably be a carpenter or furniture designer, I have a deep appreciation for both and I really enjoy working with timber when I get the chance.
Where do you draw inspiration?
From overseas travel and the natural ageing process – my partner is originally from Pennsylvania so we are frequently back there. I find a lot of inspiration in Philadelphia… there are so many parts to the city that seem like they haven’t been touched in years. All the history and original character that lives in these parts really appeals to me.
Which have been your favourite projects to work on?
Last year I worked on a big project for the Gowings revival at the QT Hotel in Sydney. It was a great to be part of a project that really valued the quality of workmanship and style over a quick turnaround… and I was able to do ghost signs and glass gilding.. always a bonus!!
I also do a lot of work with Sibella Court and Merrivale. These guys are great to work with and always have interesting projects…
I produced a large bespoke distressed mirror for Mr Wongs which I was really happy with. The fit-out of the restaurant was amazing.
What are you currently working on?
We are just about to start some signage for the ‘London’ pub in Paddington. Also working on a commissioned glass sign for a good friend over at Four Eyes Tattoo.
What are you currently listening to?
- Ryan – Joe Semz
- Guilty Simpson
- Joint Ventures
Preferred Pastimes?
Couch Surfing… although I never get time for that any more. Photographing old walls… loving decay and old texture – I collect as much as I can.
Favourite Sydney bar/restaurant? Favourite drink/dish on the menu?
I’ve got a good friend that works at Rockpool Bar and Grill and quite partial to his Chipotle Margarita.
Last country you traveled and any trips on the horizon?
The last place I went to was the USA and ill be heading back to the states again soon!
Favourite destination in the world.
I would have to say New York… there’s so much happening there and never a dull moment. I love the intensity and pace the city runs at.
Favourite Destination(s) for design inspiration
It seems I have a one track mind… the USA. I like cities/places that feel they have been well lived in and are not too polished.
What’s next for Will Lynes?
I’m getting married next year in Mexico which should be fun!! My best mate has just come on board Lynes & Co. early in the year so looking forward to what the future brings with the business and what we can accomplish.
What is your favourite item from the WitcheryMan Autumn/Winter 2013 Collection:
The Leather Brogues
Are there and classic icons you see as a representation of great style?
BB King, Christopher Walken and Ray Charles…
Images via: http://alabamatheatre.com, http://www.rollingstone.com and http://celemag.com
Who do you think has worn this item well classically?
Sean Connery
What’s most important to you when it comes to your wardrobe? Work appropriate? Fit/cut? Fabrication?
Fit and Comfort. I can’t stand being uncomfortable for the sake of a look!
How would you wear the item chosen in two ways-from work to weekend?
I actually wear pretty similar things to work and on the weekend. Here are some shots of me in my new Witchery threads… The Classic Striped Tee and The Smart Cotton Pants.
Which are your three favourite must haves from the new collection?
The Dress Shoes and Credit Card Holder for when I go out at night and the Classic Stripe Tee because I’m always in the market for new T-shirts – Most of the T-shirts I own end up with paint on them!
1. Dress Shoe
Meet Tim Leveson – The Sydney based interior designer, furniture maker and interior stylist known for his contemporary ideas and use of reclaimed materials and objects.
How did you first come to dip your toes into the world of Interiors and Design?
Growing up with parents who were antique dealers meant that we were always surrounded by changing interiors. It was a great starting point for understanding spaces.
What was your first ever job?
Apart from restoring furniture and waiting at restaurants, my first real job was lighting design for a nightclub in Rundle Mall Adelaide. Some very late nights and blurry memories!
Where did you study?
Adelaide Uni BA visual arts.
What do you love most about your job?
How much a considered interior can change someones life and well being. Still love the reactions that we get from owners when we’ve completed a space.
What/who inspires you?
Colourful socks, Annie Lennox, found objects, my partner Libby and people who work with kids.
Which have been your favourite projects to date? Any images you can provide to accompany?
I really enjoyed working on the three monkeys cafe . It was a small space and we created great intimate spaces with low lighting.
What was your latest purchase?
This amazing Boucherouite rug, (pronounced boo-shay-reet). It is a rug style specific to rural tribes of Morocco., hand-loomed by Berber women.
What are you currently listening to?
My 6yr old and I are learning all the lyrics to The Lumineers so that’s on heavy rotation but I am really enjoying Alt-J.
Last country you traveled to?
Central Indonesia on a buying trip.
Any trips on the horizon?
Hopefully Paris for 2 weeks with my brother in-law around Christmas. Still in discussion with family.
Favourite destination in the world.
Glasgow when I was younger but with 2 kids Ive fallen for Bali. We stay 20mins out of town so it’s relaxing for us with great things for the kids to do.
Your favourite new restaurant/bar in Sydney. Picks from the menu?
Hands down Corner-smith in Marrickville. They use fresh produce from all the growers in the area. Amazing hand made interiors to boot. For drinks Arcadia in Redfern-hard to find but worth it!
Any events/festivals coming up that you’re looking forward to?
I really enjoy the Melbourne Art Fair. 900 artists in one big room – it’s a great weekend.
If you weren’t an Interior designer, you’d be…
A sculptor/painter/poet who plays guitar, surfs and lives by the sea in a handmade house. Next time. Or maybe a Zookeeper.
What are you currently working on? Any exciting projects/sneak peeks you can let us in on? Any images you can provide to accompany?
My biggest project to date is a bar restaurant art gallery laundry mat in Newcastle. Very exciting, still in council so fingers crossed.
What is your favourite style from the WitcheryMan AW13 collection
The Peacoat – It looks great on every one!
How would you wear the The Pea-coat in two ways-from work to weekend?
WORK:
WEEKEND:
Who do you think has worn this item well classically?
Robert Redford circa early 80’s!
What’s most important to you when it comes to your wardrobe?
I’m onsite a lot and we are always moving things so comfort is really important to me!
Which are your three favourite must haves from the new collection?
- The Boy Blazer in navy. It’s a really nice cut and great fabric.
- The Placid Gingham City Shirt in ‘berry’ or ‘sky’ because the fabric is casual but the shirt is sharp – great mix!
- The Coloured Sole Derby shoes. They are just a lot of fun!
Richard Briggs is the director of Sports Division a cutting edge Sport and Entertainment Management company. We chat to him about his style inspiration and what projects he is currently working on.
Are you currently working on any exciting projects you can tell us about?
Just recently launched a new sports crowd-funding business called, www.sportaroo.com twitter: @sportaroo
What are your current inspirations?
To successfully grow the sports crowd-funding platform globally with Sportaroo.
Which have been your favourite projects to work on of late?
The launch of the above and securing the funding for the Australian Women’s Bobsled Team’s new race sled for Sochi, 2014 Winter Olympics on Sportaroo.
What are you currently listening to?
Chet Faker & Paul Desmond- Together
Preferred Pastimes of late?
Cooking for the family and sailing
Finish this sentence. On the weekend, you could find me……..
Sailing and with my wife being entertained by our daughter.
Favourite bar or restaurant?
Matt Moran’s restaurant Chiswick, I love the wood roasted Moran farm lamb for two and a bottle of Clare Valley shiraz.
Last country you traveled to?
Capri in Italy
Any trips on the horizon?
A short break in the Barossa Valley in July and then back to the UK for Christmas.
Favourite destination in the world.
India
Favourite Destination(s) for design inspiration:
London for its sense of style and creativity.
Are there and classic icons you see as a representation of great style?
Gianni Agnelli, The Duke of Windsor, Cary Grant and JFK
What’s most important to you when it comes to your wardrobe?
Always the cut, fit and feel of the garment are important when it comes to wearing the item with ease.
What is your favourite item from the AW13 WitcheryMan range?
The Tailored Blazer
How would you wear The Tailored Blazer in two ways – Work vs Weekend?
WORK: A classic White Shirt under a Green Crew-neck Merino Knit with the Newbury Slim Jeans and Brown Brogues
CASUAL: Grey Marle T-Shirt, Crew-Neck Merino Knit, Washed Chino’s and the Navy Desert Boots
Which are your three favourite must-haves from the new collection?
2. Brogues
What’s next for Richard Briggs?
Early retirement – I hope!
