It's All in the Mix

Could the Brits be the most patterned-crazed of all fashion tribes? We'd argue yes, if the popularity of the likes of Mary Katrantzou, Peter Pilotto (back in the day), Zandra Rhodes, Cath Kidson and so on are just a few proof points that spring easily to mind. So it makes sense that "Pattern Portraits," hosted by artist Lauren Godfrey, is a (relatively new) podcast that delves into the vibrant world of patterns, exploring their significance in art, fashion, and personal storytelling. Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a creative guest, where they bring in items to discuss their favourite patterns and the memories or ideas they evoke. This unique intersection of visual art and personal narrative makes the podcast a rich auditory experience for anyone fascinated by design and its deeper meanings.

In the latest episode that launches its second season, Lauren interviews Romy St Clair, co-founder of the trailblazing floral business SAGE Flowers. Romy, alongside her partner Iona Mathieson, has revolutionised the floral industry with bold, playful designs that have caught the attention of major brands like Gucci and Nike. They also launched FutureFlowers, an initiative aimed at diversifying and decolonising the floristry world.

Romy shares her journey from humble beginnings to creating a thriving business, reflecting on the parallels between arranging flowers and the immersive experience of clubbing. "Flowers, like music, have the power to change a space and create an atmosphere," Romy notes, emphasising the emotional impact of her work.

A recovering minimalist, Romy now embraces bold patterns, bringing her personality into every creation. She discusses the personal significance of various patterns, such as a fiery Louisa Ballou dress worn at her book launch, and a sentimental sari she inherited. Lauren shared, "I was really enchanted by Romy’s choice of a Chunni she wore for her engagement party and a very contemporary Saree given to her by her aunt-in-law, she speaks really affectionately about how welcomed she has felt into her fiancée’s family and how empowering and emotional it was to wear these garments so loaded with significance and beauty." These patterns, according to Romy, are more than just designs—they are carriers of memories and identities.

Romy's insights into the creative process and the importance of collaboration highlight the podcast's celebration of patterns as a form of storytelling. Whether you're an artist, designer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty in everyday objects, "Pattern Portraits" offers a refreshing perspective on the art that surrounds us. Lauren's own journey, as a working artist to podcast creator, is inspiring in that she has made up the texture of her career in a mash of disciplines, and we're here for it. (Fun side note: if you visit Hetain Patel's Comes As You Really Are exhibition in Croydon, look out for the pancake art. Just another bow in Lauren's many artistic talents!) 

"I’m interested in people for whom pattern is essential, they might dress flamboyantly or use a lot of patterns in the work they do, or maybe be concerned with researching the historical implications of certain patterns," Lauren shares when we asked her how she chooses her guests. "It’s amazing how many stories patterns hold within them whether these are personal or global histories. I have a very long list of people I’d love to chat about pattern with, everyone has a story about patterns up their sleeve!" So keep an eye on more Season 2 guests and beyond, and keep it maximalist!

Explore more of Romy’s patterns and listen to the full episode on Instagram @patternportraitspodcast, or find the print artwork associated with this episode at Lauren’s website.