Genevieve Bennett (main image)
With a master’s degree in Printed and Embroidered Textiles from the Royal College of Art and eight years of big brand design consultancy work under her belt, Londoner Genevieve Bennett carved out her own unique version of luxury. Her signature cut and layered leatherwork is rooted in the decorative arts but asserts a bold, contemporary aesthetic that reaches beyond the gallery walls and into the sumptuous living room space – such is her dedication to exquisite pattern and luxury materials. The latest collection from the celebrated leather sculptress, Braid & Bloom, introduces rugs, cushions and mirrors into the mix for the first time. (genevievebennett.com)
Adi Toch
Since graduating from The Cass in 2009, London-based Adi Toch has exhibited internationally and earned herself a literal shelf-load of prestigious prizes, including a 2017 Wallpaper* Design Award. The modern-day metalsmith creates containers with a playful tactility, which challenge the way we interact with decorative objects. Her Vessels on Stilts series features metallic pots supported by delicate tripods, which dutifully wobble to noise, while her Whispering Vessels are so much more than the beautifully shiny house-jewels they first appear to be: with sand, steel balls or tiny gemstones moving around inside, creating waves of sound, they become palpable instruments. (aditoch.com)
Celia Dowson
You’ll find the work of ceramic artist Celia Dowson at Hampstead’s Maud & Mabel, a boutique gallery and retail space dedicated to contemporary craft. A graduate of both Central Saint Martin’s and the Royal College of Art, Celia’s thoughtfully produced pieces focus on the qualities of light, unbound space and immersion, and range from the functional to the figurative. Her Shadow Works series was developed through studying light and shadows, with each piece created by carving away layers of clay to reveal a figurative form. The sculptures are then glazed in soft, satin colours, designed to exist subtly within an interior. (celiadowson.co.uk)
Isatu Hyde
Completing an apprenticeship at The Marches Pottery in Shropshire, Isatu Hyde moved to north west London to set up her own studio. Her wheel-thrown ceramics are full of heart, fashioned affectionately to be used and cherished every day. Specialising in home- and tableware, much of Isatu’s work concerns food – think sourdough baking bells, water lock crocks, and fruit wine making bottles – ensuring form and function exist in wholesome harmony. In fact, for the down-to-earth designer-maker, an object’s beauty is only brought to life by fulfilling its purpose. This organic approach can be experienced first-hand at Isatu’s studio, with private classes at the potter’s wheel. (isatuhyde.com)
Rachel Vosper
Tucked away between Knightsbridge and Hyde Park Corner is the sweet smelling studio of chandler Rachel Vosper. A leading light in candle-making, Rachel boasts more than 20 years of experience in creating luxury hand-poured candles and signature home fragrances. While you may find her fragrant wax works in the prestigious environs of the Dover Street Arts Club and Fortnum & Mason, Rachel’s artisanal practices remain an integral part of the brand: hands-on candle-making courses are regularly held at the atelier, while a unique refill service allows customers to bring in their own treasured receptacles to be filled with their favourite fragrance. (rachelvosper.com)