Skip to main content
Shop our Online Warehouse Sale | Up to 75% off. Offer ends 4th July.
McMullin & Co.
0
  • ONLINE SALE
  • Artists
  • Collections
    • Boston Collection
    • Chrome Collection
    • Vaso Collection
    • Hestia Collection
    • Capsule
      • Boucle Edit
      • Rattan Edit
  • Vessels
    • Floor Vessels
    • Mini Vessels
    • Table Vessels
  • Child
  • Furniture
    • Armchairs
    • Bed Heads
    • Bench Seats
    • Coffee Tables
    • Console Tables & Desks
    • Dining Chairs
    • Ottomans & Poufs
    • Side Tables & Stools
  • Gift Voucher
  • Homewares
    • Accessories
    • Candle Holders
    • Cushions
    • Tableware
  • Lighting
    • Floor Lamps
    • Lamp Shades
    • Table Lamps
  • Mirrors
    • Decorative Mirrors
    • Full Length Mirrors
  • Showroom
McMullin & Co.
0
Cart0
  • ONLINE SALE
  • Artists
  • Collections
    • Boston Collection
    • Chrome Collection
    • Vaso Collection
    • Hestia Collection
    • Capsule
      • Boucle Edit
      • Rattan Edit
  • Vessels
    • Floor Vessels
    • Mini Vessels
    • Table Vessels
  • Child
  • Furniture
    • Armchairs
    • Bed Heads
    • Bench Seats
    • Coffee Tables
    • Console Tables & Desks
    • Dining Chairs
    • Ottomans & Poufs
    • Side Tables & Stools
  • Gift Voucher
  • Homewares
    • Accessories
    • Candle Holders
    • Cushions
    • Tableware
  • Lighting
    • Floor Lamps
    • Lamp Shades
    • Table Lamps
  • Mirrors
    • Decorative Mirrors
    • Full Length Mirrors
  • Showroom
  • Home
  • McMullin & co. Journal
  • THE COMPANY WE KEEP | ASH LESLIE

THE COMPANY WE KEEP | ASH LESLIE

 



Visual artist, graphic designer and mother of two, Ash Leslie’s most joyful childhood memories were filled with hammers, saws, bricks and paint. Like her, Ash’s parents were makers and she spent her days on building sites working on their family home. That innate trait of making has weaved its way through her life in one form or another. From fixing up their old miners’ cottage to her burgeoning career, the art of making is what helps her feel at ease. 

Influenced by her graphic eye, her works aim to give a sense of calm and beauty by balancing both structural and organic forms. Read on as Ash shares her approach, how she works and recharges as a working mother of two, and her plans for the future. 

Your love of art was instilled as a child - who were your creative influences as a child? 

All of my happiest memories are of creating things with my parents. They were makers - my Dad a builder and my Mum a visual merchandiser, and the joy they found in projects definitely rubbed off on me. From the age of three, I spent a lot of time on our building site as they began working on our family home. There are photos of me carrying bricks and pouring over paint colour charts as a kid. It took about 5 or 6 years to complete what ended up being a three-storey house so the sound of hammers and saws was the norm. It’s funnily enough a similar lifestyle to what my husband and I are now raising our two daughters in fixing up our old miners' cottage.

You began your career as a graphic designer - do you think this has influenced your practice and artistic style?

Yes, I definitely think so. My style often has a graphic point of view where I work in multiple layers to explore shapes. The end result (hopefully) is a balance between structural and organic forms that creates a sense of calm. My years working on design layouts and putting together colour palettes have allowed me to instinctively explore my compositions and visualise a few steps ahead, and retain an organic nature to my work. 

What inspires you to paint? 

To put it simply, painting just really makes me happy. It’s when I feel like my most authentic self. I love how it’s not precious and you get instant gratification. I love seeing how colours work together and that feeling when a piece just comes together. I also love hearing that my work has connected with someone and that it has brought them joy. That’s the dream.

 

           

What is your creative practice - Can you tell us how you approach a new piece? 

I usually start with a theme in mind for a collection and then I'll put together a colour palette that I’m drawn to exploring. I mostly work instinctively with my compositions, but sometimes I sketch out an idea. I’m easily drawn to paint every day and don’t find it hard to find inspiration but I best get in the zone when I’m listening to a podcast or have the tv on in the background. I also work on multiple pieces at once, so as to avoid risking overworking one piece.

Motherhood is often a force in itself when it comes to pivoting career and driving creativity - what pushed you to make the switch from graphic designer to artist? 

I think the dream was always to be an artist, but I never thought it was a realistic option. I went straight into graphic design after school and most of my roles were in the corporate world and never really felt very satisfying. So art on the side was my outlet. When I went on maternity leave with my first daughter I felt this new energy in stepping away from the 9-5 lifestyle. I would paint while she napped or played at my feet. Sometimes in the middle of the night when she wouldn’t sleep I just took her into the studio and rolled with it. Being with her and painting was a dream. I began to build up a body of work that I started putting my work out there in local art shows and cafes, and to my surprise, I started making regular sales. I went back to a design role in the corporate space again for a few days a week but realised quickly it wasn’t going to be right for me. So instead I took up some freelance projects and over the last 3 or 4 years I’ve been able to work predominantly on my art while looking after my kids, which finally feels like the right path.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

Mornings are usually just me and the kids. We do a slow brekkie with cartoons on so I can drink a big coffee somewhat undisturbed. If it’s a daycare day for my eldest, we scramble out the door to drop her off. Then, I might run a few errands and spend the rest of the available time in the studio. In the evening, we do family hang time and the dinner/bath/bed marathon.

How do you work? That is, with two little ones running around at home.  

I have a home studio which is really the only way I could make it work at the moment. My youngest has just turned one and hasn’t started care just yet – a privilege but also a challenge. The girls are often running around me whilst I’m painting. Constant interruptions to make sandwiches or play referee are part of the deal. Sometimes I don’t mind and it can be nice having them around. Other times it drives me crazy and I just want to be left alone. That’s kind of the only balance that I’ve really got going on at the moment! 

It can be hard to get a moment alone as a mother – what do you do to recharge? 

I generally do find it restorative if I get time alone to paint. But a bit of quiet time to myself to process thoughts, helps, or a good cocktail and whinge session with a girlfriend. But since my youngest isn’t a great sleeper, a nap is the ultimate these days.

 

            


What was your inspiration and what story were you trying to tell through this collection?

McMullin & Co’s designs really speak to me for their understated style and natural colour palette, and so this collection really just pays homage to that design aesthetic and how it has the ability to make people feel at ease in their space.

What does the future hold for your work? 

I’m working on my next collection at the moment in which I’ve been experimenting with bringing some still life influences into my abstract work. That’s been fun as I’m always trying to push myself. I’m doing a large scale wall mural soon and a group show. Hopefully, I can put together a solo exhibition at some point this year too.
 

.           
 

Photographers to credit are Tilly Clifford @tillyclifford and Lea & Lens Photography @lea.and.lensphotography

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • Google+

Leave a Comment?

Comments have to be approved before showing up

Accounts

Accounts

  • Wholesale & Trade Registration

Behind The Brand

Behind The Brand

  • Our Story
  • Meet Our Team
  • Join Our Team
  • Journal
  • Women's & Girl's Emergency Centre

Information

Information

  • Contact Us
  • FAQs
  • Product Care
  • Stockists
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Environmental & Social
  • Terms of Use

Stay In Touch

Copyright © 2022 McMullin & Co.
ABN: 45 640 871 110
  • Afterpay
  • American Express
  • Bank Deposit
  • Diners Club
  • MasterCard
  • PayPal Express
  • Visa
  • Web Payments
  • Web Payments
  • Zip - Own it now, pay later

Terms & Conditions

TERMS & CONDITIONS

 

  1. WEBSITE

    The term ‘McMullin & Co.’ or ‘us’ or ‘we’ refers to the owner of the website whose registered office is 13 Thompson St, MARRICKVILLE, NSW, 2204, AU. Our ABN is 45 640 871 110. The term ‘you’ refers to the user or viewer of our website. The use of this website is subject to the following terms of use:

    The content of the pages of this website is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice.

    Neither we nor any third parties provide any warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness or suitability of the information and materials found or offered on this website for any particular purpose. You acknowledge that such information and materials may contain inaccuracies or errors and we expressly exclude liability for any such inaccuracies or errors to the fullest extent permitted by law.

    Your use of any information or materials on this website is entirely at your own risk, for which we shall not be liable. It shall be your own responsibility to ensure that any products, services or information available through this website meet your specific requirements.

    This website contains material which is owned by or licensed to us. This material includes, but is not limited to, the design, layout, look, appearance and graphics. Reproduction is prohibited other than in accordance with the copyright notice, which forms part of these terms and conditions.

    All trademarks reproduced in this website, which are not the property of, or licensed to the operator, are acknowledged on the website.

    Unauthorised use of this website may give rise to a claim for damages and/or be a criminal offence.

    From time to time, this website may also include links to other websites. These links are provided for your convenience to provide further information. They do not signify that we endorse the website(s). We have no responsibility for the content of the linked website(s).

    Your use of this website and any dispute arising out of such use of the website is subject to the laws of Australia.
     
  2. PRODUCT VARIATIONS

    Many of our products are handmade, natural and organic and may feature slight defects due to this nature. All pieces are carefully hand picked and checked before dispatch.

    Ceramics are traditionally handmade and placed in a woodfire kiln, every effort is made to ensure there is minimal colour variations to our ceramic pieces, however, it is something that we love and can be expected. Please note our natural  ceramics are not water tight. We love dry flowers in ours but for fresh flowers please place a water tight container inside the vessel.

    Teak & Cane are also a natural materials which may also have colour variations. We suggest keeping these material out of direct sunlight as it will cause fading overtime. Applying a natural oil or beeswax will help maintain the materials over time.

  3. LEAD TIME 

    ETA dates listed on our website are estimated only and can vary due to the nature and production time of our goods.

  4. ORDER PROCESS

    Please consider your order carefully as once an order is submitted, we are unable to change or cancel it as our goods are made to order. We allocate stock to orders based on date paid, not the date the order was placed. Unfortunately we are unable to hold stock for unpaid orders.

  5. DISPATCH

    Once we receive your order and payment, we will move to dispatch all available stock immediately. Most orders are fulfilled from our warehouse which can take up to 5 business days to dispatch. If stock is not available your order may be split. If an item is missing it is likely your package has been separated in to two shipments. If this is the case, you will receive two tracking numbers from us. Once order have been dispatched you will receive an email with your tracking number. 

  6. DELIVERY

    Please note due to COVID-19, our couriers are experiencing delays due to high demand and limited flights.

    They have advised that it will now take up to 7-15 business days to receive your parcel. All items will be shipped via courier. Delivery is deemed to be effective when the delivery company receives a signed receipt or delivery docket confirming that the goods were received. If the delivery is attempted to your address and no one is able to sign for it, then the delivery company will transfer it to a nearby depot and leave a card with a number to call to arrange a re-delivery. 

  7. RETURNS & EXCHANGE POLICY

    We want you to love your purchase, so if you're not completely happy, you may return your product within 14 days of purchase for exchange or refund provided it is in unused condition with all the original packaging. We will not accept any returns without it's original packaging.  If in the event a product is damaged or faulty, please contact us at hello@mcmullinandco.com with your invoice number, name, contact details and photos within 72 hours of receiving your order and we will organise an appropriate course of action. 

    Sales items purchased during a promotion or our sample sales are a final sale. No exchanges or returns of sale items are accepted at any time.

    International returns: We will not accept any international returns. 

    Refunds: Refunds are not available for change of mind or sale items, we are happy to offer you a store credit. 

  8. OUR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

    Unless otherwise indicated, we own the copyright and other intellectual property rights (“IP”) in the content on this website. Some of the IP in the content may be owned by someone else and is included on our website under a license or agreement. All copying, downloading, reproduction, distribution adaptation, modification or communication of the site or any content is prohibited except with our prior written permission. The site contains trademarks which are registered or otherwise protected by law. You are not permitted to use these trademarks except with our prior written permission.

  9. LOANS

    We are happy to provide products for photoshoots and events to our Trade customers. There is a 10% charge for the value of the goods to cover our handling and packaging. Should any of the products break or get damaged during a loan, the wholesale value or a repair fee is chargeable.

  10. MARKETING COMMUNICATION & PRIVACY

    McMullin & co only collects personal information when you knowingly provide it. Personal information is collected in a number of ways, including directly from you over the phone or via email, within marketing activities and invitations responses, and when you submit information to us through or website (eg. email chat or cookies).

    Your contact details may be used by us for the purpose of sending marketing correspondence or invitations to you. We acknowledge and respect an individuals choice to opt-out of our direct marketing communications and activities. 

  11. CURRENCY

    All amounts listed on the website are in Australian Dollars (AUD)

  12. WARRANTY

    Our products are natural and handmade and are therefore unable to have an unconditional warranty. However, we will replace any product if it is defective within six months for furniture and one month for all other items from the date of receiving provided the product was used for normal  purposes and maintained in accordance with the care instructions.

    Any improper or negligent use or neglect will void this warranty. The warranty applies to household residential use only and not to any commercial, contract, rental, trade, institutional or other non-residential use. If you wish to make a claim under this warranty, you must provide photographic evidence to support your claim.

    You must also send us:

    The invoice number and date of purchase; and

    A full shot of the product with two close-up images of the defect.

    For the avoidance of doubt, a product is not defective if there is a manufacturing variation referred to above.

    Subject to the above and subject to any condition, warranty or right implied by, or any statutory consumer guarantee contained in, any law (including the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)) which cannot by law be excluded by agreement:

    We give no warranties if any expressly set out in these terms and conditions; and All implied conditions, warranties and rights are excluded.

    The following only applies if you are located in Australia and deemed a “consumer” under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and may not apply in your particular case. Our products come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the ACL. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure. You are also entitled to have the products repaired or replaced if the products fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure. By stating these rights, we do not vary or extend the remedies otherwise available to you. The name, business address, telephone number and email address of the person giving this warranty are:

    McMullin & co.

    ABN 20864510070

    7 Sydney Street

    Marrickville, 2204, NSW

    Ph. 0423 114 882

    Email: hello@mcmullinandco.com

Privacy Policy

This privacy policy sets out how we uses and protects any information that you give us when you use this website.

We are committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. Should we ask you to provide certain information by which you can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement.

We may change this policy from time to time by updating this page. You should check this page from time to time to ensure that you are happy with any changes.

What we collect

We may collect the following information:

  • name and job title
  • contact information including email address
  • demographic information such as postcode, preferences and interests
  • other information relevant to customer surveys and/or offers

What we do with the information we gather

We require this information to understand your needs and provide you with a better service, and in particular for the following reasons:

  • Internal record keeping.
  • We may use the information to improve our products and services.
  • We may periodically send promotional emails about new products, special offers or other information which we think you may find interesting using the email address which you have provided.
  • From time to time, we may also use your information to contact you for market research purposes. We may contact you by email, phone, fax or mail. We may use the information to customise the website according to your interests.

Security

We are committed to ensuring that your information is secure. In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place suitable physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.

How we use cookies

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about webpage traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes and then the data is removed from the system.
Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.
You can choose to accept or decline cookies. Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. This may prevent you from taking full advantage of the website.

Links to other websites

Our website may contain links to other websites of interest. However, once you have used these links to leave our site, you should note that we do not have any control over that other website. Therefore, we cannot be responsible for the protection and privacy of any information which you provide whilst visiting such sites and such sites are not governed by this privacy statement. You should exercise caution and look at the privacy statement applicable to the website in question.

Controlling your personal information

You may choose to restrict the collection or use of your personal information in the following ways:

  • whenever you are asked to fill in a form on the website, look for the box that you can click to indicate that you do not want the information to be used by anybody for direct marketing purposes
  • if you have previously agreed to us using your personal information for direct marketing purposes, you may change your mind at any time by writing to or emailing us.

We will not sell, distribute or lease your personal information to third parties unless we have your permission or are required by law to do so. We may use your personal information to send you promotional information about third parties which we think you may find interesting if you tell us that you wish this to happen.

If you believe that any information we are holding on you is incorrect or incomplete, please write to or email us as soon as possible at the above address. We will promptly correct any information found to be incorrect.

Afterpay

Shop Now. Pay Later.
100% Interest-free.

Simple instalment plans available instantly at checkout

Select Afterpay as your payment method

Use your existing debit or credit card

Complete your checkout in seconds

No long forms, instant approval online

Pay over 4 equal instalments

Pay fortnightly, enjoy your purchase straight away!


All you need is:

1) A payment card; 2) To be over 18 years of age; 3) Resident of country offering Afterpay

To see Afterpay's complete terms, visit https://www.afterpay.com/terms

© 2022 Afterpay