Loose Ink Design: Lucy Burke

Sep 16

“Here on the Surf Coast, we are so lucky to call some of the most beautiful beaches and epic surf breaks our backyard.

I’m constantly inspired by the lush otways and hinterland; we can surf in the morning and then hike to a waterfall in the afternoon.

I’m also influenced by our local creative community, which is full of supportive and empowering artists.

Love this initiative! 🙌”

— Lucy Burke - Founder of Loose Ink Design

Meet Lucy Burke, the creative behind Loose Ink Design. She’s a printmaker and illustrator living on the Surf Coast.

Lucy Burke found her creative calling by dabbling in almost every medium until one of them captured her heart. The Torquay artist’s patient process of elimination led her to printmaking and the connection was instant.

“I was trying to find something new I hadn’t done before and I went into my favourite art shop one day and thought ‘ooh, printmaking, I’ll give that a whirl’,” the 29-year-old recalls.

“I loved it.”

That was two-and-a-half years ago and since then Lucy has used traditional lino cut techniques to bring her illustrations to life, carefully hand carving and printing every design produced under the Loose Ink Design label.

Most popular products?

Lucy’s linocuts feature on everything from prints and cards through to journals and ethically sourced t-shirts.

You may have seen her at local markets or an Art Local Show held last year at Ocean Grind. She has also just launched a website, www.looseinkdesign.com where you can buy original prints, handmade frames and more

Each work reflects her love of nature and human connection, with mountains, sea creatures and human hands featuring prominently in her designs. Her online store

What does the future hold for Lucy and Loose Ink Design?

Already a qualified yoga instructor, Lucy says her big dream is to combine art therapy with her passions for yoga and hiking through specialist day retreats.

“Art is just such a therapeutic way to get in touch with our feelings and emotions,” she says.

“Art therapy both on an individual level and as a group can be so beneficial for confidence building and mindfulness, especially in this day and age where we are always switched on and in our yang energy being busy.

“It’s such a beneficial practice to feel comfortable and safe to slow down.”

If you had one piece of advice, what would it be?

“I would encourage anyone feeling isolated or unsettled during the lockdown to pick up a paint brush and explore their creative side. Everyone is creative in some way – it’s a natural thing that we all have,” she says.

“Maybe don’t have too many expectations to begin with – just do it for the love of it.”