So, what’s new for this year’s Open Studios?

Magpies.

Lots of magpies!

And with them, lots of memories of our beautiful Edie.

Back in 2010, Tim and I were out walking on a cold winter’s day in Mundaring when Tim found a tiny, fluffy baby magpie that had fallen from her nest.

Of course, we took her home.

For the next few weeks she lived in Tim’s hat and was fed special food from our local wildlife rescue centre.

We called her Edie.

And what a magical journey she took us on.

Edie played with our dogs, hung upside down from the washing on the line and stole anything that took her fancy.

She absolutely loved butter. If we accidentally left it out, she would eat and eat until she could barely move!

She even learnt how to turn on the kitchen tap.

Unfortunately, she never learnt how to turn it off.

Edie was never kept in a cage. She was free to come and go and lived with us for about two years. Eventually, she began disappearing for a few days at a time.

Then one day, she simply didn’t come home.

For a long time we waited for her, calling out and expecting to hear her familiar reply.

But Edie had gone.

We were happy that she had chosen her own wild life, but goodness, we missed her.

So, in memory of our beautiful Edie, magpies are going to be everywhere at this year’s Open Studios!

I’ve been having such fun creating a collection of paintings, limited-edition prints, tea towels, ceramics and tote bags — all featuring those wonderful black-and-white characters.

Back to the Pilbara

In early October we’re heading north to the Pilbara.

It is such a special place to me.

That incredible red earth, the yellow spinifex, the enormous skies and all those wonderful colours and textures always find their way back into my work.

I’m sure this trip will be no different.

Watch this space!

Something special for Open Studios

I’ll also have a new selection of my little framed Boab and Dog paintings available this year.

These little paintings always disappear quickly, so if you have your eye on one, please put your name down early.

And there’s something completely new this year.

For the first time at Mundaring Hills Open Studios, I’ll be showing pieces from my new Ochre Design by Christine Hingston ranges.

I’m very excited to finally start sharing these with you.

They aren’t available online just yet — but they will be soon!

There are two collections — Lifestyle Collection -Domestically Wild Textiles, with five beautiful designs featuring tea towels, aprons and tote bags that bring my art into everyday life, and Artist Edition Collection - Wearable Art + Signature Accessories, where my original artworks have been transformed into beautiful textiles and accessories to wear, carry and enjoy. These include four original designs across model silk scarves, in two sizes and luxury tote bags for all occasions.

In the meantime, if you see something you love or would like more information, just send me a message and I can send you a lookbook.