Collect Showcase

Dreams can come true

If I had to choose just one thing that I wanted to achieve in my practice, it would be this.

My greatest, biggest, dreamiest goal within my craft has come true - I have been selected for Collect, the leading international fair for craft and design in London, taking place this March.

I am honoured to be among a small group of makers representing Scotland and am so excited to share with you what I’m working on - but for now, here’s a sneak peak and a reflection on the last five months.

COLLECT

1st-5th March, Somerset House, London

A challenge

This has been the most ambitious project I’ve ever undertaken, and has been a real challenge technically and logistically. It marks a new direction in my practice and has pushed me, both creatively and personally. Above all though I have gained confidence through this process, as a maker, designer and on a very fundamental level, as a person too.

This collection has taken five months, working 70+ hour weeks. It’s also taken a community of support to create these works, and I am eternally grateful for the advice, wisdom and support of my community here in Wester Ross. 

Thank you

I want to take this opportunity to say a special thank you to Mark Stockl from Am Bàta in Plockton for having me back in the boatbuilding workshop, ten years after I first studied there. Thank you also to this years two school apprentices who cheerily lent their hands in the steam bending of the wood.

Thank you to David Hay for sourcing the initial forms for me to steam bend wood around, for making it feel like no bother at all, and for cups of tea with your delightful family on a particularly cold December day!

To Dave Whittingham, master carpenter who lives down the road from me, whose sage advice and wisdom were given with such generosity. Your help was truly invaluable.

My amazing Dad, who gave up an entire month to help me with woodwork. This simply wouldn’t have been possible without you, and it was a privilege to work together.

To Stuart, for days in the boatshed, for helping me sand wood to my (at times unreasonable) levels of perfectionism, for your help on the beautiful handle on ‘Cruinnich’, and (when things were getting a bit much) for a surprise bottle of champagne with friends.

To Colin and Kareen at McRostie, who when I was at peak-panic stage, stepped in wirh their saddlery tools and thinned my leather down for me in the quickest turnaround time imagineable. Thank you both for your kindness.

To Emmi and Calum, my favourite creative duo whose skills brought to life my first ever collection, and every new body of work since. It is such a joy to be a part of your creative process, and to see my work through your eyes. I will forever be indebted to you both and I don’t have words to express my gratitude and love.

To Richard Gaston, for your generosity, unique talent, and for showing me that the local pub is actually pretty decent. Mostly though, for great conversation and a new friendship.

To 57 Nord, who kindly allowed us to shoot in their impeccably stylish, beautiful home. Looking out over Glen Shiel, I couldn’t have picked a better location for my first interiors shoot.

And finally to my Mum, who gave up her utility room in its entirity for over 2 months so that I had an indoor space for all my woodwork. Sorry about all the dust and yes - I know it’s a one off!*

*If anyone has a woodworking space in Wester Ross that they’d be happy for me to use for future projects, give me a shout!

I’ll be sharing more over the coming weeks, and if you’re in London the first week of March - do make a beeline for Collect. It’s set to be a truly spectacular show of craftsmanship.