Pete Cromer is hands-down the best artist in Australia. There, I said it! I’ve been in love with his work for years now, but his latest creations to hit the scene – Druids – are by far the most adorable.
The Inspiration Behind Pete Cromer Druids
When Pete took some time out to talk with me this week, I had to ask about the inspiration behind these little creatures. They’re the latest in what is a very long line of work from this talented Melbourne artist, who I’ve featured on the blog before and whose art is proudly displayed in my own home.
When it comes to the qualities I admire most in this new range, it’s the sense of whimsy and charm that really appeals me. Pete explains that when it came to creating the Druids, it was about exploring personality using shapes.
“I find that simpler, blob-like forms can be more expressive and communicate emotion stronger than a detail image,” Pete says. “Druids are little souls of positive energy, they are intended to make you feel happy and strong”.
Pete got the name for these little guys from the Druids at Stonehenge, based upon the stone relics there and the magic behind them. But if you thought Druids were the only new releases from this Aussie artist, prepare to swoon over his Aussie animal art too.
“I associate better with our home grown fauna than the rest of the worlds,” Pete tells me, when I ask about these koala and kangaroo works (above). “That’s not to say that an elephant isn’t on the list of to-do’s.”
Pete goes on to explain that he still has a lot more exploration into Australian animals to do, so we’ll be seeing more collages in this series through out the year. He also points out that he likes to take his time when working on a range; shape is really important to him, so it can be a slow process for him to get the work just right.
Take one look at his colourful website and you can’t help but notice an adorable French Bulldog print in the mix too. Pete tells me that it was inspired by his own pooch, who he sadly lost just before Christmas last year.
“This artwork is still a little hard for me to look at at times, but it still brings me joy too. He gave me a lot of energy and motivation each day, so losing him sucked more than you could imagine. Tell your pets you love them everyday, they need to know”.
“I’m always going to go with my gut no matter how crazy the idea is… so watch this space”.
Is there a Bedding Range on the way?
It looks like things are onwards and upwards for Pete in 2016. But the busy artist tells me that he is trying to focus his energies into one project at a time.
“Chris, my head is full of so many ideas,” he says. “This year I will have a couple of exhibitions, launch some new artwork and prints, have few collaborations up my sleeve and there is also the top secret awesome things in development… think soft and dreamy 😉. I’m always going to go with my gut no matter how crazy the idea is… so watch this space”.
Pete Cromer… if you are releasing a bedding range I am going to NEED A MEDIC ON STANDBY!
If you love Pete’s work and would like to get your hands on some of his Druids, hit the competition below and you might be lucky enough to welcome these little guys into your family!
WIN THE 5-PIECE DRUID FAMILY YOU SEE ABOVE!
** Please note that this competition has now closed. The winner was Catherine Elizabeth **
To go in the draw to win this family of druids, simply:
Drop a comment below telling me what you love about Pete Cromer and his work!
Comp open to Aus residents only. Comp closes 11.59pm Tuesday May 24.
Pete adds a pop of colour and happiness to each and every day for me. I literally can’t help but feel better and brighter like the world is at my feet when I look at his art. #happyfeels #thankyoupetecromer
I just love the straight up happy, almost childlike vibes that seems to pour out of his work! His colour use in particular is nothing short of magic! Once look and you cannot help but smile.
One word: Cuuutttteeee
As a budding artist/designer myself, I love Pete’s playful and bold use of colour and shape. Been a big fan of his druids, they just cheer me up! I love how you can create this life like little character just by adding little faces to the beautifully made objects.
What’s not to love? PeteCromer’s art is fun, full of energy, and accessible by all walks of life and people of all ages. I particularly love Pete’s druids – they are such freindly looking little critters and bring a whole new meaning to the pet rocks I loved as a child.
I love Pete’s work, so bright, happy & graphic & I was so glad to buy something & meet him at Bowerbird on the weekend. Keep up the good work Pete & I too would welcome some linen!
Warmth and happiness in every piece. Love them all!
Always need a towel to wipe up the drool when I look at Pete Cromer’s work! Whimsy, colour, animals, shapes! What isn’t there to love?! His Druids are so fun & make me smile everytime I see them! Sparkly blobs of love!
Love your blog love Pete’s Druids! We are slowly forming quite the collection and would love some more!
The art (and special mention to the droids) is like a rainbow after a storm. Makes me so happy and has a bit of magic about it!