Getting to know Abbey Rich, a multifaceted artist who spends her time painting murals, holding solo exhibitions and designing tattoos. McMullin & co. has been lucky enough to collaborate with Abbey Rich to create our Abbey Vessel. Abbey was a natural fit for us as brand with her distinct style of soft- hues, fluid forms and organic shapes.
What’s your Mantra?
The more ‘success’ you have the more you gotta share it round.
Which creatives do admire?
Beci Orpin is my number one, teaching me that I can make a career out of doing what I love. I’ve been assisting her occasionally for years now and I’ve learnt a damn lot, Beci’s work is incredible. I’m in love with the work of Joy Yamasungie, I just purchased two of their prints and can’t wait to frame and hang them, also love the mural works by Aretha Brown and charcoal drawings and paintings of Julia Trybala. Forever and always Keith Haring too.
How did you fall into painting? What has lead you to this certain style of artwork?
I definitely ‘fell’ into it. I was running an eponymous clothing label for a couple of years, but the sustainability and ethics were a real deal breaker for me. Whatever we did I still didn’t think it was good enough, so I sidestepped. I’d been commissioned to paint a few murals by this point and had fallen in love with painting, so I tried to make that work as a main thing. I’ve been on a weird journey and have grown and changed a lot in these 6 years since I started, I’m very grateful. In terms of style it’s just me and always has been – I’ve never really had to consciously develop my own style it just is.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Everywhere – I don’t think I can pinpoint it.
How does your artwork influence your home interiors, and why?
This lamp is very my interior but most of my work actually isn’t. My public artwork is often bright and colourful, and my smaller works are too but my home interior is quite neutral. Maybe it’s an escape from my chaotic studio and art practice.
Tell us more about your custom designed piece for McMullin & co?
We’ve followed each other for a little while now. Alice had bought one of my paintings that features the same abstract pattern. The shapes are playing with depth and pattern, a little reminiscent of cellular forms. When we got chatting about a collaboration this seemed like the right choice! I’m so excited to see it all photographed and looking fancy.
Your favourite McMullin & co. piece?
Hands down the Frank Armchair! I think I always have a tab open on my computer, staring at it haha.
What are you listening to at the moment?
Okay Kaya and Yaya Bey on repeat
Any new works on the horizon?
Yes! Always, lots of new murals to come after Melbourne’s lockdowns lift. I’m also jumping back into textiles with some rugs I’m making… but sssshhhh.