Interview with artist Lucy Gill

What was the inspiration behind your design for Bird & Knoll’s Mindful Escape collection?

My inspiration for the mindful escape print has drawn on my painting practice, there is an immersive and elusive way in which we can become lost in our own thoughts, I love using painting to map and depict what these thoughts might look like; using ambiguous, abstract, soft and feminine forms with delicate connecting lines like drawing one notion to another. This work was created during 2020 when life was looking so different, this really pushed me to escape through my creative process, making new paintings in a meditative way. I love that when I am painting I can get lost in the practice for hours. It is incredibly calming and centering. 

How do you practice mindfulness in your work day?

Creating detailed to-do lists really helps me to be mindful during the work day. This keeps me focused and gives me a clear sense of my priorities. Walking to our local cafe to get a coffee also helps me get into a fresh mindset before a meeting.

What sparks your zest for creativity?

So many things... a beautiful book, music, conversations with good friends and a calming environment.

What travel experience has influenced your work?

Viewing the Yves Klein paintings at the Pompidou in Paris was so special. I love the expression in the works and the gorgeous feminine forms the painting shares. Another moment would be seeing the colour palette of the late afternoon light against the sand in the Dubai desert - so beautiful.

What is your favourite Mindful Escape piece in the collection and why?

I truly love the Rae Top and Skirt set. I can see myself wearing this for summertime long lunches and then dancing into the night. In the cooler months, I will wear the beautiful skirt with an oversized knit - being so long the skirt is a perfect template for the mindful escape print.