On Saturday 4th March I finally got to see all the work I have been collecting, designing and collating up in one place. It has taken me almost a year to get to this point but I am glad for all the delays and mistakes made along the way as I definitely wouldn’t have been in the same place if I had launched in September 2022 which was the original plan!
The launch party took place in The Barn at my family home. The Barn has recently been renovated by architect Philip Briel (my very talented uncle). The space was perfect to display all my work as it still replicates the bare brick structure of the original barn.
The final products for the launch consisted of designs I have been working on, some of them for years now. I designed and printed two fabric designs, both in two colour ways which I hung from the rafters. The artwork I made or collected from Turkey, South Africa and Mexico adorned the walls and the fabrics I collected from around the world, were made into cushions and were piled high on the furniture.
I wanted to display the work as an exhibition. Although the work is all different, my aim for the collective is for all the products to work harmoniously together as one. I have a very particular style, inspired and borrowed from all the artisans I have met and bought from around the world. I am particularly inspired by the African colours and patterns as well as the textiles from Southern and Central America. My aim is to bring these vibrant colours and varying techniques back into the modern western home.
We gathered last Saturday with friends and family surrounded by this work. We enjoyed sparkling wine provided by The Grange and canapés by Martha Hollis Catering. The night ended in celebration with music; my brother and dad on the decks, dancing with friends and family.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far. We have lots more plans for the future, including pop ups and exhibitions. Watch this space and spread the word!
https://www.thegrangewine.co.uk/
https://www.marthahollis.co.uk/
Photos by Hannah Watts and Kitty Watts