Gewürzhaus × Emma Sheehan Christmas Collaboration

This year, we are honoured to collaborate with rural New South Wales-based artist Emma Sheehan, whose original artwork brings our Christmas Gift Boxes to life. In this Q&A, Emma shares her artistic journey, sources of inspiration, and the special details that make this collaboration truly unique.

Could you please provide a little detail about your journey to becoming an artist? 

I have always had a strong interest in the world of art. I studied art history and earned a Master's degree in art curation at university. After that, I completed an interior design course at the Inchbald School of Design in London, as I was particularly interested in the intersection of art curation with home and interior design. When COVID-19 hit, I picked up a paintbrush for the first time since school. I shared a few photos of my artwork on Instagram, which caught the attention of Gig Moses at The Moree Gallery. She asked me to create additional pieces, which sold well. From that point, opportunities began to snowball into more gallery shows, collaborations, and exhibitions. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who encouraged me and instilled confidence in me to pursue this career path, as entering this world was initially daunting. 

Where do you find inspiration? 

I find my main inspiration in books and travel. My library is filled with art and museum books, as well as those focused on pattern making and linens. I also try to take one trip overseas each year, usually to a destination that aligns with my artistic vision. A few years ago, I visited Spain, which became a significant source of inspiration for my subsequent exhibitions. The ceramics I saw there still influence my work today. In a few weeks, I'm excited to go to India for the first time. I can’t wait to experience the vibrant colours, beautifully painted interiors, and block print patterns. I have no doubt that this trip will inspire me for years to come. 

How did the collaboration with Gewürzhaus come about? 

Eva reached out to me after seeing my work on Instagram, which sparked a productive exchange of ideas. The girls had a strong vision for the design of each box, fully embracing the bold patterns and vibrant colours that I often incorporate into my artwork. It was an exciting challenge for me to create pieces with both aesthetic appeal and strong marketing potential. I truly believe that what we have developed together is unique and special. 

What are some of the special details on the Christmas Gift Boxes? 

We aimed to include beautiful little details in the boxes. The background design on the "Joy for Baking" box features the lovely pattern of Eva and Maria’s family apron, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Accompanying this is the letter "G" elegantly etched on the wooden spoon. We've also included their iconic amber jars, alongside some of the ceramics and dinnerware that are lovingly showcased in their cookbook. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of their culinary journey. 

What does Christmas mean to you and your family? 

Christmas is my favourite holiday to celebrate with my family each year. It’s a special time for us to reconnect, especially since we live in different cities. The highlight for me is the beautiful food we prepare for lunch. Like many families, we find our best moments around a lovely dinner table filled with delicious dishes. My favourite are glazed ham, turkey stuffing, and trifle. 

Do you have any Christmas rituals? 

One of our favourite traditions is choosing one gift to open on Christmas Eve. This is usually a gift we are most excited to give someone and can’t wait any longer for them to unwrap it. Every year, we also make Bill Granger’s Sunrise Smoothie to kick off our day of feasting. It’s so refreshing and summery, perfect for the hot Australian summer. My sister and I are always in charge of setting the table for lunch. We typically go all out, choosing a colour theme and picking flowers from our mother’s garden. The best part is rummaging through her beautiful ceramics, dinnerware, glassware, and the amazing napkins and tablecloths she has collected over her lifetime. 

Who in your life inspired you to follow your passion to become an artist? 

In my family, we were always encouraged to embrace our creativity. When I expressed my desire to become a full-time artist, my family fully supported the idea. My older sister and I grew up with a grandmother, mother, and aunt who each had a passion for colour and pattern in their fashion and home decor. In our household, we were always engaged in crafting, cooking, and learning about the beauty and quality of ceramics, art, and design. Given this background, it's no surprise that I became an artist and my sister became an interior designer. These three remarkable women instilled a passion for colour, art, and creativity in us from a very young age.