The Sunshine Lane: Isabelle’s vision for creativity in our community
- Simmone Sache
- Jan 28
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 3
Step off the train in Maylands, and you’ll find a little studio bursting with colour, creativity and connection. At its heart is Isabelle, an educator and artist who has turned her passion for creative expression and sustainability, into a welcoming space for people of all ages, The Sunshine Lane.
Isabelle’s journey to The Sunshine Lane has always been driven by her love of art, learning, and teaching. With an arts degree, a Certificate III in childcare and experience as an art director at a Reggio Emilia-inspired daycare, she champions the idea that the environment is a powerful teacher. During her time as an education coordinator at REmida, she developed STEM programs using discarded materials, helping children innovate and problem-solve.
“There’s so much potential in what we throw away,” Isabelle says. “Every item has a story waiting to be told.”
Through the FORM Creative Schools program, Isabelle brought her philosophy to classrooms, using art and storytelling to meet curriculum goals. Reflecting on the challenges schools face, she notes, “There’s such a need for more funding and time to think creatively. Creativity shouldn’t be an afterthought, it’s such a powerful tool for learning.”
The Sunshine Lane started small, from plasticine earrings sold at Fremantle Markets to workshops during COVID. Isabelle grew a following which inspired her to think bigger. Last year, she moved from the other side of the railway where she’d been for a year and a half, into a new bright, welcoming studio, a space designed to spark ideas and celebrate the beauty.
Walking into The Sunshine Lane is like stepping into a treasure chest of ideas. There are toilet rolls, egg cartons, empty jars and other materials that Isabelle and her visitors turn into art.
“It’s more than creating, it’s about showing how we can reuse and reimagine things we’d usually throw away.”
Her workshops aren’t about following strict steps or rules. “I show a few techniques and examples to inspire both kids and adults to discover the joy of making things, it’s all about exploring and having fun.” Isabelle creates a space where people feel free to experiment and let their imaginations shine.
The Sunshine Lane is now a vibrant hub for creativity and connection. “People often drop by to show me what they’ve made,” Isabelle shares. But The Sunshine Lane is about more than just making art. It’s about rethinking waste, building community and proving that creativity can make the world a better place.
