Interview with Charlotte Day founder of Dandy Star
Firstly Charlotte, how are you feeling and how are you coping in lockdown?
Ha! Most days I feel good, I like our new pace of life at home. I start with tea then yoga and the day unfolds. I walk the dog with my son every day, he's home from university, we get to talk about his life mostly. Then there is the odd day where it all feels awful and I cannot bear the repetition and I want our life back, but it passes, plus I am doing a lot of creative work on Dandy Star.
Do you think the world will become a kinder place after Covid-19?
I would hope so, I think people have had a lot of time to reflect on their lives during this confinement, more thoughtful definitely.
We'd love to hear a bit more about your small business Dandy Star:
Well, we are in the process of huge change, thanks to Covid-19! I decided early on during the lockdown that I wanted to return to studio-based work and that going forward my small Columbia Road shop could not work with social distancing and the busy market. I want to create an atelier where everyone is welcome and open the studio up, I want people to feel they can ring up and come over to shop. I have had my business 15 years and been through many ups and downs during that time, I still love making the work and I have customers that have been on this journey with me since the beginning, I even have the offspring of my original supporters who now shop with me!
“Be Kind” - Gold ink with a pale drop on fluoro pink and a pale pink base. Ltd Edition of 100
What is the kindest thing you have ever done?
I was able to help my father out when he lost his business, he got a tax bill and I had just been paid for a big commission so I paid it for him. I never wanted the money back, it was so great to be in a position to help him. Consequently, we are very close and he's a great supporter of me and my work.
“Be Kind” by Margo in Margate A4 Giclee print £55
Tell us about your love for typography and words:
It's more about the composition the play on colour, meaning and then typography in that order. I'm not that interested in typography per se I like simple utilitarian and basic shapes. The words for me having a meaning that usually can be re-interpreted I want them to be suggestive or questioning, mostly upbeat. The colour can then distort or sweeten, it adds another dimension.
What is your favourite print that you have in stock?
The sugar neon pink 'London' print on acid yellow, it's in my kitchen lest I forget where I am!
We want to see what you have on your walls at home:
Who is your favourite artist?
Johannes Vermeer slash Giorgio Morandi and Bridget Riley
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope to continue making work, run my business and make a living but more importantly to be able to go and visit family and friends soon.
What is your kind message for all our lovely readers?
Peace & Love!
It was so lovely to talk with Charlotte today. Here at Blank White Space we love to chat so if you’d like to share your walls with us just drop us a note jules@blankwhitespace.co.uk
Much Love,
Jules