Established on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Jane Sutherland has made a name for herself by using fabric and metalwork harmoniously. We chat with Jane and talk all things fashion and business.
Jane Sutherland Metal WorkWhen did you first realise you wanted to pursue a career in fashion?
I have always had an interest in several areas of design – architecture, interior design, photography and metalwork. When I realised that metalwork and fashion could collide, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in fashion.
How do you think that working from the tiny hamlet of Kingston has inspired your vision?
To sit on the shores of Lake Wakatipu alone in the evening with my grandfather’s pocket knife and whittle a piece of drift wood gives me time to think, reflect and be inspired – there is no noise and no rush.
Any clues as to how your Spring/Summer ’20 collection is looking?
On a recent trip to Riverton, my 11-year-old son Victor and I walked to the ocean at low tide just on dusk; he shone his torch into the water and I took a photograph. What captured on film looked to be a bright light reflecting a magnificent sword — a motif which is strongly present through my collections over the years. This image is the inspiration for my next collection, tinged with sterling silver and possibly a hint of gold.
Success is not final , failure is not fatal it is the courage to continue that counts”
Jane Sutherland ClothingWhat fascinates you at the moment?
With a holiday to Japan on hold, I am currently studying the art of bonsai and Japanese gardens.
Mentors who have inspired you both from a design and a business point of view?
No mentors as such. However, there are so many incredibly talented New Zealanders, including Sam Hunt whose poetry books are always open in our house.
Anything else you would like to add?
I took a risk last year and changed the direction of my business. I am no longer wholesaling to boutiques, instead I am selling direct to customers. The doors to my workshop/studio have just opened. All enquiries are welcome directly to Jane at janesutherland@xtra.co.nz or DM via Instagram or Facebook. Or visit janesutherland.co.nz
