Article: Sydney Soan - Artist Series
Sydney Soan - Artist Series
Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as an artist. How did you find your creative path?
I created my first seamless repeat print in a Year 10 Art class, inspired by a sketch I made at Kew, the famous Royal Botanic Gardens in London. My art teacher introduced me to the process of screen printing and how to turn a pattern into a seamless design. My mum loved the pattern so much that she had it turned into a pair of curtains, which still hang in her home today!
I went on to complete an Art Foundation at Camberwell College of Arts, followed by a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design at Falmouth university. Somehow, my career path has always stayed within the fashion industry—starting as a Junior Designer for a menswear company in London, then as a Fashion Design Assistant creating snow gear on the Gold Coast. I later became a Senior Product Developer at Billabong Women's, where I worked for four years.
In 2019, I took maternity leave with my first baby, Coco, and it was during this time that I became a freelancer and fully embraced my passion for textile design.
Looking back, I can see how that journey has greatly shaped my work today. My background in Graphic Design honed my eye for detail, composition, and hierarchy, while my experience as a Senior Product Developer gave me invaluable insight into the fashion industry's processes—from proto samples to bulk production. This combination of skills and knowledge now allows me to confidently create and prepare artwork for like minded companies.
What inspired your artwork for Mayde Tea’s Limited Edition Artist Box series?
Drinking tea is more than just a moment to pause—it's a doorway to daydreaming, which I see as a vital tool for pure creativity. With this print, I wanted to capture that very essence, evoking a sense of depth and tranquil, daydream-like energy.
Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you go from initial concept to finished artwork?
I believe my unique approach to design comes from the concept development phase, which is where I spend the most time—something I likely picked up during my Graphic Design degree. This stage is all about exploration and inspiration. I love to visit libraries and dive into books on a wide range of topics—anything from classic art movements to something completely unexpected, like a book on moss! I find that the more random, the better.
Once I’ve gathered some inspiration, I let the ideas and concepts simmer in my mind for a while. I often daydream about them at night, visualising different compositions, orientations, and possibilities. I find inspiration everywhere—whether it’s in the colours I see around me in a coffee shop or the shapes I notice in a playground. This visualising process can take a few weeks before I even pick up a pencil.
When I finally feel ready to start, the actual creation part comes quickly because I already have such a clear vision in my head. From there, I scan my work and begin setting it up into a repeat pattern. Depending on the complexity, this can take some time. Once the repeat is finalised, I like to apply the design to various product mockups—like bikinis or dresses—to see how the scale and colour choices influence the overall feel of the print.
How do you incorporate wellness into your creative process? Are there any rituals or routines that help you stay balanced and inspired?
I’ve found that allowing myself time to daydream and let my mind wander is really important. I embrace those quiet moments of reflection because I often come up with my best ideas when I’m not forcing them. I also try to set boundaries—ensuring I take breaks, stay hydrated, and rest when needed, so I don’t burn out. Staying active and getting away from my desk is always an important routine. Sometimes, just getting out and having conversations with people from all walks of life sparks new ideas or shifts my perspective. These interactions often bring unexpected insights that fuel my creativity.
What’s one book, quote, or philosophy that has deeply influenced your approach to life and wellness?
One book that has deeply influenced my approach to life and wellness is The Photography of Bill Brandt. I return to this book not only because of his mastery in composition, landscapes, and portraiture, but also for the way it reminds me of the art movements and eras that paved the way for where we are today. Brandt's work captures the beauty in even the harshest conditions, and it reminds me that art often arises from struggle and adversity. There's something powerful in the way hardship can fuel the imagination, almost as if it's the fertiliser for creativity. This perspective influences my own approach to both life and art—finding beauty and inspiration, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Finally, how does it feel to see your art represented on a product like Mayde Tea?
I’ve been a huge fan of Mayde Tea for over five years now. It all started with their nursing blend when I was struggling with my milk supply, and I honestly found it incredibly helpful—so much so that I was having three or more cups a day! Once I finished breastfeeding, I explored their other blends and now I drink a variety of their teas daily.
For me, tea is more than just a beverage—it’s a ritual that ignites my creativity. Whether it’s an energizing 'English Breakfast' to kickstart a morning of making, or a soothing 'Serenity' blend for nighttime brainstorming, tea has become an essential part of my creative process. Seeing my artwork represented on a product like Mayde Tea is truly exciting, and it feels so special to be part of something that has been such an important part of my own journey.
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