By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley
It’s not every day that an artist turns their passion into a thriving global business, wins prestigious awards, and proves that creativity and entrepreneurship make the perfect match! Gabi von Gans is living proof that it’s possible.
An internationally acclaimed photographer, originally from Vienna, she is primarily known for her portrait work. But her heart has always been drawn to nature. She has frequently turned her lens to the great outdoors, capturing the beauty of horses, dogs, and, more recently, wildlife—especially a mischievous family of foxes which has decided to make her backyard their home.
This furry family sparked a whole new wave of creativity for her. Not only did she publish a children’s storybook featuring her playful new neighbors, but they also reignited her love for fashion.
“Foxes in my backyard completely reprogrammed and refocused my direction,” she says. “It was a real page-turner. I rebranded and made environmentally friendly practices the top priority for my business.”
At first, she simply wanted to create a tote to accompany the book, but that small idea quickly blossomed into an entire line of designer clothing and home décor.
She says, “I am all about nature, and Georgina is all about nature too. I have spent very little time in big cities, so nature has always been a natural environment for me. I wanted to create something which would be 100 percent natural.”
When von Gans discovered the Montreal-based company Le Galeriste, everything fell into place. She provided her artistic photographs, which they transformed into designs printed on eco-friendly materials using natural inks.
She adds, “our community is dedicated to protecting the environment, making it the perfect place to start a business that combines art, nature, and eco-friendly fashion.”
Georgina embraced her new venture with enthusiasm. Just a year after launching Atelier Gabi von Gans, her designs are already selling in the hundreds of items. Von Gans takes pride in offering personalized advice, and custom clothing.
She explains, “My clients get personal attention, much like in the old days when clothing was custom-made by a tailor—pieces crafted from the finest materials and designed to stand the test of time. Now, it’s even more important, with the throwaway culture of cheap, low-quality clothing.”
Fans from Georgina will be delighted to spot on her creations familiar landmarks, such as the Briars Rose Garden, the Peacock House, and the Red Barn Theatre, along with widely recognized Canadian symbols.
She received the Georgina New Business Excellence Award in 2023; and this year she has been nominated again.
Her next step? Expanding to Europe to share with the wider world her deep connection to Canadian traditions—including a touch of Georgina.
Atelier Gabi von Gans has started collaborating with Helmut Kand, an Austrian multi-media artist. She says, “We combined our love of First Nation Peoples around the globe to present 21 eco-luxury wearable art fashions and home styles. Stay tuned!”
Von Gans believes it’s never too late to start a new venture. She advises, “Be open and flexible. We live by the lake, so I’d say, ‘learn to ride the wave.’ If you’re ready to ride it, go for it!”
For more information follow the link: http://www.gabivongans.com/
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