Local toy-making sensation Emily Davies is turning childhood dreams into reality with her whimsical company, Pieces of You—where your sketches transform from mere fridge art to huggable friends.
This summer, the talented artist will be showcased at the Caloundra Regional Gallery in an exhibition featuring her unique handmade and customised gifts.
Until then, you can hire her to stuff the stockings under your Christmas tree with the gifts your kids dreamt up themselves.
Ms Davies said growing up she always believed her toys were “alive and filled with magic” and honed her skills in sewing after studying fashion design.
“I began it by creating patchwork memory quilts after my third child was born; I had an overwhelming need to create,” Ms Davies said.
“My work quickly took the direction of creating the popular ‘Picture Pieces’ after I made a doll for a little girl in Aroona who drew a picture for her elder sibling’s birthday.
“Picture Pieces are custom toys I make from children’s artwork which is the majority of work I produce now.
“Every piece is unique so the work is never dull, even though some designs may be more challenging than others.”
Ms Davies said the work was the “perfect creativity balance” for a mother of five.
“Over the years I have been approached by the likes of book illustrators to create their characters for promotion with children’s books and schools have contacted me to do competitions for book week designs,” she said.
“I have created sports and school mascots for a schools in Currimundi and interstate and I’ve even created dolls as gifts for members of Saudi Arabian Royalty.”
“It’s a thrill to see how my work is being appreciated globally when it started from such humble beginnings.”
To find out how to bring your very own drawing to life visit poydesigns.com.au or visit the Caloundra Regional Gallery as part of the Nature and Culture – Animal as Object exhibition, running from 13 December 2024 to 2 February 2025.
Caloundra Regional Gallery is located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra and is open Tuesday to Friday 10am – 4pm and weekends from 10am – 2pm.
