April 11, 2016
CRAFTER ELENA MARTORELLA
Elena Martorella has always had an interest in interiors, art and design. But it was when she began to teach herself how to create macramé wall hangings that she started a bigger journey. “I would describe myself as a crafter, however, I don’t like to limit myself to one title,” she says. At the moment creating these wall hangings is something that she enjoys and has found a fast audience for her business Three Queens Interiors, which is based on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. “I love that there is no limit with what you can do with it,” Elena says. But she finds that the act of creation becomes a learning tool too - for her next creation and her big-picture business. “I was always incredibly cautious showing people my art for fear that they may not like it,” she says. However, the overwhelming positive feedback has given her impetus to start plans for upcoming ranges, which includes wall art and hand-painted linens.
Which five words best describe you? Fun, loving, creative, carefree and kind.
How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? Being a stay-at-home mum for six years allowed a lot of time for brainstorming, creating and planning. I also teamed up with a friend and we sold some of our handmade homewares at local markets. The feedback from people was great and gave me the drive to set up a website for online sales. I have a big sketch book of ideas. I am still figuring it all out as I go along. I am having fun with it and seeing what happens.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Believe in yourself! I wish I started this earlier and didn’t let fear hold me back for so long. A quote I live by is from the amazing Diane Von Furstenberg - “When you doubt your power, you give power to your doubts.”
What’s your proudest career achievement? My proudest achievement was my first sale. It gave me the confidence and drive to keep going. I am also proud to see my work displayed in shop fronts and stocked in shops.
What’s been your best decision? To approach stylists and people in the field, asking them for advice, drilling them with questions and gifting them my art work. The somewhat “gamble” has paid off. I have found there are some amazingly nice people out there who generally want to help out. Approaching people has opened doors I didn’t think would open for me.
Who inspires you? So many people inspire me - mostly all are women who are strong, creative, independent and successful. Such people include Samantha Wills - I love how she made a jewellery-making hobby selling pieces at markets into the huge success it is today. Actually, just recently, one of her pieces that my dear husband bought me was used as my inspiration for a custom piece.
What are you passionate about? Making and having quality time for family and friends. Making the most out of our time on this earth.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Too many to choose. Dead: Michelangelo - seeing his paintings in Rome at the Sistine Chapel took my breath away. Alive: Diane Von Furstenberg. Creator of the iconic wrap dress. The comeback she made to her label. I think she is amazing.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? To travel see and experience the world with my girls.
What are you reading? I’m more of a magazine person. I love them for their images. I have loads of unread home magazines that I need to catch up on.
images courtesy of three queens interiors