We consider ourselves pretty blessed to be stocking some wonderful brands and thankfully for us all, Bothy Threads work with and house a number of talented artists. With that in mind, we thought we’d rifle through our filing cabinets and handpick another well-loved member of the Bothy family – Gorjuss by Santoro London.
Over the years, you may have seen these little characters featured on a number of things such as backpacks, pencil cases and art prints. The staying power of the Gorjuss brand nothing short of impressive, yet it’s its enigmatic characters are clearly the key contributor as to what’s captured the hearts of many over the years.
Suzanne Woolcott, the original Gorjuss artist, has left pieces of herself on each original canvas. The illustrations are very often self-reflective, with each piece serving as an autobiographical snapshot. Suzanne was inspired by whatever she was feeling at the time, explaining that the similiarities between the girls were due to each of them being a representation of herself in some way.
Although the Gorjuss dolls are viewed as expressionless, the composition of each appears to be almost ritualistic. In an interview with Santoro London themselves via their website, Suzanne comments on the inspiration of each piece explaining:
“Inspiration can come at any time! For me, it often comes when I’m listening to certain kinds of music. Sometimes it’s just the feeling of the song, or the powerful lyrics and the memories they bring up. Every painting has a meaning – some of them very personal.
I think it’s important to recognise that inspiration isn’t just fully picturing the finished product in your mind, it can also be a little ritual that simply helps you get in the right headspace.“
(Image: gorjussart.com)
We love hearing how things come to be as it truly gives such a wonderful peek behind the curtain. For over fifteen years, Santoro London has been the home of Gorjuss, taking the brand and its key art style from strength to strength. As it’s evolved, the ‘Dolls’ have been featured on numerous products, eventually making their way into crafting.
Santoro’s stripy-socked gals have collaborated with Bothy Threads before, yet their new collection proves to be a celebrated one. From prints to pattern, it’s time to take a closer look at our favourites from the Gorjuss range!
For All Seasons
We adore the composition of this first set of Gorjuss kits, as Bothy Threads always seem to think about and execute their artist’s works so wonderfully well. Taking into consideration the watercolour or ombré backgrounds, each version of this tarot-esque collection comes with printed aida, futher showcasing the mood and theme of the piece.
You could say that each of these kits are composed to represent the seasons: Rainbow Wishes illustrates spring and the light in its showers, Ray of Light boats the summer sun and their lovely lighter evenings, Little Storm Cloud feels like the winds of change as we ring in autumn and Snowflake Kisses are reminiscent of a crisp winter’s day.
Whichever ‘season’ you choose, the details in these kits are a delight. With backstitching and the use of metallic threads featured alongside usual components, each Gorjuss ‘Doll’ is sure to offer a moment of peace and deep thought to those who view her.
My Little Friend
Over the years, the Gorjuss gang are often seen with a furry friend whatever the season, so it’s no surprise to see these lovely little creatures make some appearances in Bothy’s kits, too! Mirroring their setting perfectly, both the animals and the ‘Dolls’ offer thought-provoking imagery, beautifully allowing you to feel whatever comes to you at that time.
Gorjuss’s imagery have always felt as though much is up to interpretation and, we feel, it couldn’t be clearer in these kits here. Although we sadly can’t keep these little ones as pets, these kits still perfectly display the special bond between humans and animals. In the open spaces, it’s clear to see that they’re glad to have each other in these vast spaces.
Whether it’s the ethereal shining lights with the polar bear under the Aurora, shining under the moonlight with a mystic hare in Twilight, or surrounded by the glistening frost in Blizzard, Gorjuss always offers a tale and a story – it’s simply up to you to pick up the pen and write it yourself. Whether for a loved one or as a gift to yourself, we’re sure these kits will be a joy to make and view time and again.
That’s it from us for this month’s edition of The Stitchuation, join us next time as we begin to explore some of our new seasonal delights. Don’t forget to share your makes with us over on our socials by using #WoolWarehouseCrafters! In the meantime, be sure to enter your email below to subscribe to The Craft Room – the place for tips, free patterns and a wealth of inspiration ⤵️✨