THE JOY OF CRAFT

Participating in London Craft Week again this year was a reminder of the sheer pleasure of seeing designs made by hand. At a session moderated by writer Charlotte Abrahams, Franco Ceccotti expressed a passion for his work. “Artisan skills are very important, each one expresses soul,” he said. “Meticulous care and respect for materials, particularly wood, has never been more important in our fast-paced world.” In an era of mass production, Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour recognises the value of objects that come into existence through time-honoured skills and steadfast dedication.

 

Exploring further the notion of craftsmanship, visitors were invited to get behind-the-scenes in the showrooms. From hearing about the unique wax-casting process at SA Baxter Architectural Hardware & Foundry to seeing ancient handblocks used to make wallpapers at Watts of Westminster, to understanding the process of embroidering textiles at Tissus d’Hélène or glassblowing and gilding at Porta Romana to translating complex patterns into woven carpets at Tim Page Carpets, it was proof positive that the Design Centre is an influential force shaping the British craft canon today.