Friday 13th October - Thursday 19th October
A collection of handmade home and lifestyle pieces from a trio of Bristol's craft scene.
During their week long exhibition you will see the detailed creations of Hilda Allen (Honest Weaves), Tammy Crawford-Rolt and Sam Whyman. Each item of furniture and woven art has been handmade in Bristol by each individual artist.
A rare opportunity to see this collection together and a chance to purchase these items for your home.
SAM WHYMAN
Sam is the owner and operator of Whyman Furniture, specialist solid hardwood furniture makers.
Why 'Whyman Furniture?' Well, Whyman is his family name. "If you really believe in what you're doing then I think it feels authentic to put your name to it. I'm extremely proud of my work and I'm proud to put my name to it."
He is a furniture designer/maker hailing from West Yorkshire, now settled in Bristol.
After starting his career as an Industrial Designer with a BA from Loughborough University he realised that his true passion lay in craft rather than mass manufacture. This realization led him to further his education by studying as a fine furniture maker at the world-renowned Waters and Acland Furniture School in the Lake District.
With his diverse background, Sam possesses an incredibly comprehensive skill set as a designer-maker. He approaches bespoke projects with a high degree of customization, involving the client in every stage of the creative process, presenting various options for consideration to arrive at a truly unique design.
Through his concept work, he strives to push the boundaries of creativity in furniture design, seamlessly integrating innovative techniques and materials to enhance both utility and sculptural impact.
Environmental responsibility plays a pivotal role in Sam's work, as he places a high priority on mitigating any ecological impact. He achieves this by collaborating with local sawmills to source British timbers from sustainable origins and by refraining from using imported sheet materials with harmful adhesives. Waste is repurposed with offcuts from the workshop utilised as biomass, sawdust utilised as chicken bedding, and shavings used on his allotment.
Sam's work has garnered national recognition, having been exhibited and shortlisted at various award shows, including the Wood Awards and the Young Furniture Makers Awards, with more scheduled for 2024.
TAMMY CR
Tammy CR is a furniture maker, crafting contemporary fitted and free-standing furniture that plays with linearity, contrasting elements and textures.
Tammy consciously handcrafts these furniture and homeware items in her Bristol workshop, using sustainable timbers and materials. Her craft approach blends traditional techniques with modern designs and tools.
Her background in spatial design has led Tammy to focus on ergonomics, alongside that strong visual style. She believes in making durable pieces with a high level of attention to detail and finish, practical and easy to use and live with, so that the furniture will stand the test of time.
Tammy’s work, specifically the Trio Collection has evolved from her fascination with geometry, the natural world and displaying indoor plants to their full potential on natural materials, whilst creating healthier environments and homes.
Tammy also takes on commissions and interiors for various domestic and commercial spaces.
Tammy's website and Instagram.
Hilda Allen - Honest Weaves
Hilda's journey as a self-taught weaver is deeply rooted in her background as a qualified Interior and Graphic Designer with over 12 years of experience in the creative industry. Her transition from working on events and websites to weaving reflects her growing dissatisfaction with contributing to a throwaway culture. Weaving not only provides her with a sense of mental clarity but also taps into something primal, where her heart and hands collaborate to create meaningful and sustainable art.
One of the core values in Hilda's work is her commitment to using ethically sourced materials and collaborating with fellow makers whenever possible.
Hilda's wall hangings serve as a unique blend of banner designs and elements inspired by the natural world. In her view, our homes are an extension of ourselves, representing our safe place and heritage. Particularly during the pandemic, people have been incorporating textiles and banners into their living spaces, making a powerful statement about their values and what they hold dear. Hilda achieves this by focusing on intricate designs, sustainable materials, and a thoughtfully chosen color palette.
Her weaving process involves a mix of vintage threads, recycled cotton, UK-sourced materials, and wool from Manos del Uruguay. Manos del Uruguay is a non-profit organization that empowers local women to make a living while staying in their communities and raising their families, aligning perfectly with Hilda's ethical principles. To complete the piece, the wooden hanger is crafted by a UK carpenter using sustainable timber, ensuring that every aspect of her work is environmentally conscious and socially responsible.
In summary, Hilda's journey from the creative industry to weaving reflects her dedication to creating meaningful, sustainable, and ethical art. Her wall hangings are not just decorative pieces but powerful statements that reflect the values and heritage of the individuals who choose to bring them into their homes. Through her careful selection of materials and collaborations with ethical partners, Hilda is making a positive impact on both the creative industry and the communities she supports.
Hilda's website and Instagram.
