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One present I can’t wait to wrap for friends this Christmas is ‘Working Space’ by  New York-based photographer Martyn Thompson.

Dinosaur designs, Studio & factory space, Sydney

I’ve loved Martyns work for years, but I felt a little closer to him when he gave us some shots for a story we ran on Dinosaur designs in THE quintessential MAGAZINE edition three. Martyn, Louise and Stephen (of Dinosaur Designs) have all been great friends for many years, so it’s hardly surprising that the opening story shows their inspiring studio and wonderfully friendly factory space.

Design & ceramicist Annabel Adie’s Paris home studio

There’s something about these working spaces that is so refreshingly real. Honest and raw … probably because it’s an insight into a process. It’s not styled. It’s authentic and human. This book illustrates the creative spaces of 24 individuals, and consists of a diverse portfolio of interesting people, each one having created working environments that are a reflection of the love for what they do.

Hill end press, printmakers, Sydney

This series of stories perfectly capture the passion of the creative heart and are beautifully illustrated by Martyns raw and emotive photography. It’s inspiring in its content as well as its execution where the spaces focus on a love and respect for the idiosycratic and the lived environment.

Brad Greenwood, painter, NYC

It’s like an evocative collection of thoughts and belongings, and the words, although brief, beautifully capture the essence of the space and the people working within it in a very personal way.

Cleveland’s salon & cafe, Sydney

For me, this book has captured the moment. The world has changed. We’re working  in such diverse ways now. There is no right way. We invent and create our own solution. There is so much more interest in a space that has soul and spirit, and as we are looking to express ourselves, and be honest about who we are, we surround ourselves with our stories and with the things we love.

Nathalie Lette, Designer, Paris

Working Space – an insight into the creative Heart

by Martyn Thompson, Hardie Grant Books  rrP $69.99

TRACY LINES – EDITOR & CREATIVE DIRECTOR