We gathered with the creative community in Noosa, the wider Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and beyond for an evening of inspiration.
Guests braved the rain to come out to Leighton Contemporary – everyone agreed it was worth the effort! Event photography by Natasha Maree Photography.
On a stormy February evening, creative professionals gathered at Leighton Contemporary in Noosaville for an inspiring exploration of how the natural world shapes design across disciplines. The event, titled ‘By Hand and Form: A Creative Exploration’ brought together designers, architects, and artists for an evening of conversation and connection. Against the backdrop of our purpose-designed outdoor furniture upholstered in high-performance Maharam fabrics, guests mixed and mingled over drinks and nibbles, immersed in artistic inspiration. It proved a wonderful opportunity to connect with industry colleagues in a warm (dry!), casual and creative environment, with refreshments by The Noosa Forager, Ok Boocha and Land & Sea.
A Brisbane rooftop
Our panellists and moderator brought together insights from diverse creative practices.
The evening’s centrepiece was a casual panel discussion moderated by Leighton Contemporary’s Jess Leighton, featuring our Creative Director Susan Tait, Erin McDonald, Associate Director of Blaklash, and jewellery and furniture designer Lee Brennan. The conversation delved into the translation of natural environments into creative work, exploring how shape, colour, texture, and biophilic design principles flow through furniture, textiles, architecture, and art. Panellists shared their unique processes for moving from natural inspiration to finished production, revealing the distinct considerations that Queensland’s subtropical landscape brings to their work. The discussion illuminated how Noosa’s coastal environment – with its interplay of light, organic forms, and relaxed outdoor living culture – directly influences design thinking and material choices. The thoughtful exchange resonated deeply with attendees, sparking conversations that invited all to consider how we translate the world around us into the spaces we create and inhabit.
Thanks to our event manager Hayley Jenkin of Wholehearted Studio and Natasha Maree Photography.
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