From her studio overlooking stunning native bush in the beautiful Bay of Plenty, Aly Bennett has built up her craft business, Native Creative, from an original range of collages on plywood to a collection of innovative product designs inspired by New Zealand birdlife.
What do you make?
I make unique native creations out of printed plywood which are inspired by NZ’s wonderful bird life. I design my own patterns to print onto the plywood which are intended to reflect the personality of each bird. To date my range includes collages, prints, slot-togethers, mobiles, wall decals, brooches and a jewellery tree. I’m also soon to release my first piece of furniture which is very exciting!
How did you get into your craft?
I’ve always had a creative itch and with two preschool aged children I wanted to find something I could do from home where I could dictate my own hours. I started out with collages of native birds applied onto plywood blocks. Eventually, after really falling in love with plywood and all its possibilities, this led on to the creation of my other products.
Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
No. In the past I’ve worked in many industries including advertising and web design (in non-design roles) so was often surrounded by creativity which I found inspiring. This meant I’ve always been proficient using a computer and am good at ‘organising’. It feels so great now to have found a medium that I LOVE which is becoming successful. I must add that the creative, technical and woodworking talents of my husband have been invaluable in helping to develop my ideas. (more…)
