sleep dream play interview

(right to left) Set of Four "Legs" Postcards, Alphabet Brooches, ROBOT GIRL Custom Pillow/Plush, OH NO I Spilt It All Over My Notebook

I recently came across a colorful and quirky Etsy shop called Sleep Dream Play. The owner, Alice Potter, was kind enough to answer a few questions for me.

Where are you located?
I am based in London, England, where I have lived, worked and studied all my life.

What is your vision for your Sleep Dream Play label?
Well I still see myself really finding a niche, and to find the things that I really enjoy making. (I think I am almost at this stage) Essentially I want the label to be a familiar household name within the design world.

What are some of your favorite tools and materials?
Generally, my work starts off with a drawing, so good quality pens and pencils are a must. I tend to use technical pencils, and Copic pens or Letrasets. I also couldn’t live without my computer, which is my hub. It’s where I work on designs in Photoshop, changing colours, shapes etc. Fabric is also an important element in my work.

Where do you draw your inspiration?
Most of the time it’s just imagination, or sometimes I have had an idea for ages and it finally gets to a point when I have to do something about it. I have an old science text book from the early 20th century, and was so eager to work on an idea based on this book. Eventually without thinking too much about what I was doing I pumped out 5 collage illustrations in one morning which used the black and white diagrams from this book. I am also inspired by times gone past, trying to capture a sense of nostalgia in my work, but always with a hint of wit.

When you aren't creating things, what do you enjoy doing?
Well, I have a part time job as a book seller, so books are important to me too. I love to read. Especially kids books, which you can just really enjoy for the story, and not be caught up in a serious or depressing storyline. I am also a huge fan of music, and as I don’t play an instrument any more, listening and reading about music is also fun.

Name five songs you can't get enough of these days.
1. Our Love Was by The Who (The Who Sell Out)
2. The entire Quadrophenia record (such a great story behind the songs) by The Who
3. The Thrill Of It All by Roxy Music (Country Life)
4. Morning Dreams by Ladyhawke
5. Ghetto Defendant by The Clash