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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Thoughts Make Things

Founded by Lydia Lapinski, Thoughts Make Things – f.k.a. Studio Binky – create beautiful and playful work full of exuberance and good cheer. We especially love the characters that Lydia creates; frogs, trees and even medicine bottles radiate personality and joyfulness. We had a fantastic time collaborating with her on Colouring Sheffield, available now in our online shop as either a colouring and activity book or a huge poster.

Here she tells us a bit more about her work and what’s she’d do to improve the city, given half a chance. Someone buy this girl some paint…

How would you describe your work?
Colourful, organised chaos, dream-like, bizarre & playful.

What inspires you?
For me, inspiration is everywhere, it’s just about being in the right frame of mind to be able to see it.

What’s your workspace like?
My workspace is an old barn and dance studio that I share with photographer Tom Jackson. We are both obsessed with g-plan furniture. It’s a colourful mix of granny chic and Japanese collectables.

What do you love about Sheffield?
I love the people, the green spaces, the antique shops, the cafes and the pubs. I moved here 6 years ago and I’m still finding new delights and treasures all the time.

What would you do to improve the city?
I would paint everything grey in rainbow colours and draw faces on everything. I would turn Castle Market into a giant toy shop and make Jarvis Cocker the king.

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