The Gear List - Australian Artist Alex Hotchin

When the Production Team were initially discussing a Mont T-shirt they knew they wanted to collaborate with an Australian artist who had a connection to the Mont brand. Someone who understood the heritage and the durability of the gear. Who embodied the values and connection to nature.

Over a year ago they started chatting with Alex who's artwork has featured on many inspiration boards at Mont HQ. Turns out she she owned a Moondance which was already, as she calls it, 'a friend and companion'. It was a collaboration that was meant to happen. 

We sat down and asked Alex a few questions about her creative journey and connection to nature. 

Have you always been a creator?  When did you start?

Always.  I grew up in a remote area of central Queensland, and so creating games, building contraptions out of what lay around the farm, and even creating imaginary friends were all a part of my childhood.  I’ve always drawn, but it was not until I undertook a 17,000km bike ride from Europe to Asia, that I put my artworks out into the world.  I drew that whole journey and since then have not stopped. 

Read about Alex's book Borderless

How do you connect with nature?

I walk, swim, ride, sit, draw, listen, observe. I always feel connected to nature no matter where I am.  Nature is everywhere.  It pays to have really keen observation skills to notice what goes on around us.  I’m interested in the relationships in nature, recognising patterns and momentary events.  Nature is a never ending movie of fascinating stories. 

What is your connection to the Mont brand? 

I’ve always set out to support Australian business where I can.  I’ve owned many Mont items of clothing over the years, but not too many, as they last a long time!  I’ve been a big fan of the Moondance tent - it’s light and strong.  I’ve been bathed in moonlight and woken to the sound of bird orchestras.  If innate objects can be friends and companions - well my Moondance tent is both.

The Australian Bush is very unique, what aspects inspire you? 

Its interwoven tapestry of beauty and wisdom, tenacity, fragility, diversity.  Its ability to adapt and change, its vastness and age.  There is always something to learn - and if we listen long enough it will tell us about itself, ourselves.  Spread over our Australian bush in all directions are the incredible First Nations Songlines - something I am keen to learn more about.

Mont is proud to support and collaborate with Australian Artists, view Alex's work over on her website