Brisbane’s independent creative scene is bubbling with an overload of talent, with the likes of photographers, artists, writers, and makers all earning loyal local and national followings. Designers in particular are garnering acclaim for their work in local, national and international markets, elevating Brisbane’s standing in the creative landscape. It’s these gifted and inventive individuals that will take centre stage in the second sitting of The Locals Panel Series presented by The Weekend Edition and West Village – a monthly event where we gather Brisbane’s best and brightest to dispense industry wisdom and provide insight into their creative process.

On Wednesday June 19, four esteemed members of Brisbane’s diverse design landscape will assemble to discuss the hurdles and pitfalls inherent in breaking into the world of design, and offer their thoughts on how to best set oneself apart in the scene and build a loyal following from the ground up. Our panellists and moderator have deftly navigated their respective industries and constructed their own brand and creative identity from scratch – each have now attained a level of success and notoriety that allows for unbridled creative empowerment.

We’re pleased to announce that joining us for the next edition of The Locals Panel Series is Kylie Johnson of Paper Boat Press ceramic studio. Since the early 90s, Kylie has crafted countless distinct pieces and built her business from a humble greeting-card company to its contemporary iteration, which now sells everything from ceramic ornaments, jewellery and illustrations to Kylie’s own published books of poetry. Paper Boat Press pieces have been featured far and wide in numerous publications, and Kylie’s Ashgrove shop, gallery space and studio has become a beloved haven for locals and fellow creative types seeking inspiration.

The second panel participant is self-employed Brisbane-based creative Bonnie Hislop. Also favouring ceramic art, Bonnie meticulously creates pieces imbued with bright colour and intricate details. Bonnie’s work has evolved from adorable animal-shaped pieces to include a plethora of eye-catching vessels that add spark and life to any room. This year Bonnie opened her first bricks-and-mortar store in California Lane and continues to foster a love of ceramics with regular illustration and hand-building technique workshops at venues across Queensland and interstate.

Our third panellist for the evening is Ashleigh Keily of James Street’s Arc + Family and picture-perfect urban oasis el’ rosa. Along with her husband Ben, Ashleigh designs and hand-paints a range of lightweight fibreglass and terracotta clay pots, adding a colourful dose of pizazz for hobbyist horticulturalists and lovers of snazzy interiors. Since establishing the brand more than five years ago, Arc + Family has accumulated one of the most devoted fan bases in Brisbane, and continues to lure in new followers with its knack for eye-catching design and cheeky creativity.

Finally, our esteemed moderator for the discussion will be Tia Queen – seasoned graphic design lecturer and co-founder and creative director of Gangplank. Gangplank is a design studio that offers a plethora of services to brands, ranging from art direction and signage to digital design, strategy and more. Notable clients have included Bee One Third, Vokes and Peters, Howard Smith Wharves and La Boite Theatre Company.

Tickets for The Locals Panel Series on Wednesday June 19 are on sale now – you can purchase yours by hitting the button below! The ticket price includes a glass of champagne and snack on arrival.