Studio Visit with PO-EM

PO-EM is a creative collection of handmade textiles, wares and art by artist & designer Carla Venticinque-Osborn. Collections take inspiration from stories, poems, the hand's work, the animal gaze, storytelling through pattern, utility, and merging old things with new things. Every piece is intent on being genuine, and serves as an ode to the handmade.

Last summer I had the chance to go to New York to view the Spring/Summer collections for 2020. While I was there I took the subway to Brooklyn to visit the PO-EM studio. Owner and designer Carla Venticinque-Osborn showed me her newest collection (now available), let me take photos of her workspace, and recommended a great lunch spot, Five Leaves. One thing I've noticed from visiting designers in their workspace is the abundance of natural light. Carla's space has beautiful light and a cool exposed brick wall. 

Carla works with artisans in India, Guatemala, and Mexico to produce her original textiles exploring traditional methods like block printing, weaving, and resist-dying. 

The "Camo" print below was designed by Carla for her SS20 collection. She starts with art which is then turned into a block printed pattern. Block printing is when an artisan carves a design into a block to create a stamp. Then with ink applies that stamp to create a pattern on fabric. 

PO-EM is a sustainable brand producing via socially and environmentally positive channels of production. They use natural non-toxic dyes and materials and support  craftspeople-artisans-makers. Their artful clothing are also relaxed styles, reminding us to slow down in this world.  

Every studio needs a dog for inspiration:)