The material of memory

As a textile designer, Jarnah Montersino of Mont Studio has the rare privilege of being “a very small studio,” says Jarnah. “It’s very unique. But also, I’m trying to provide a more sustainably-minded approach to the interior space,” says Jarnah on her decision to work, order and print digitally in Australia to make the most of the advantages of sublimation printing. “Water-based pigment ink is used directly onto fabric which is bonded by heat and pressure to the fibre. Unlike other forms of printing, digital printing means no water is used, and there is no wasted ink during the printing process.”

Having travelled extensively throughout her life, the last few years have provided space for reflection and memory. “In a previous life, I used to work in international development, and I travelled a lot, so my current collection is based on memories from these travels. I leaned on those memories significantly, as we probably all did (during Covid). There’s an element of nostalgia, and little moments in time that are unique and precious to me, so it’s quite personal. But also, just trying to capture the beauty that is all around us and the seemingly simple moments in shapes and forms that are in our connected environment,” she says.

The range, while small, is fully customable and Jarnah is open to collaboration. “If people are interested, I can work with them to create a design that might be more useful within their space,” Jarnah says. Her words reflect the elegant designs that evoke memories of everything from cool walks under leafy trees to temple bell ropes, paving and the night sky.

Printed on pure linen, which is commercially graded to suit application, the fabrics can be used domestically and commercially. Jarnah can also provide a unique coating on her fabrics that enable water repellent properties, making them usable in outdoor settings. “I’m trying to provide a versatility to my fabrics that can be used across multiple areas and high-use residential or commercial areas,” she adds.

Predominantly domestic at present, her clientele is across both Australia (for designers such as Georgia Ezra of Ezra Studio) and America. Interestingly, her American clients are interior designers who have approached her directly through Instagram. In Australia, she is represented by Style Revolutionary. Jarnah, who has studied both textile design and art, has also worked in social science and human rights. “A very mixed bag has brought me to this point. But, that’s life, isn’t it?”