Stories of Craft: Levant Glassblowing

Garments made by early 20th-century Russian emigres, for the former couture house Kitmir, are considered to be among the most beautiful pieces of modern fashion history, notably inspiring Coco Chanel. But the unlikely twists of fate that led to their creation are tragic, and surprising. Jamie Sharp explores the intriguing tale of Kitmir. 

Sara Pierdonà delves into Moroccan weaving and embroidery – an art that reflects a rich blend of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian influences. From ceremonial garments adorned with sfifa trimmings to Yves Saint Laurent’s modern adaptations, silk threads have woven themselves into the country’s cultural and artistic heritage. While traditional techniques face challenges in the modern world, associations like Timodontes are keeping these crafts alive, preserving Morocco's ancestral skills and empowering local artisans.

Kaori Tatebayashi is a Japanese ceramicist based in London. Known for her hand-formed white stoneware, she creates precise, delicate sculptures of flowers and plants, capturing nature’s fleeting beauty. Drawing from her studies in Kyoto and London, Kaori's work explores the paradox of clay’s fragility and permanence, preserving moments in time through her art.

Emma Becque and the not-for-profit, Turquoise Mountain, celebrate the craft of Palestinian glassblowing, where artisans keep centuries-old techniques alive. Each handcrafted piece is an emblem of a unique blend of creativity and cultural heritage, ensuring this ancient technique endures in a modern world. 

Emma Becque delves into the artistry of Myanmar's weaving, a centuries-old technique where each piece, woven by local artisans, captures the rhythms of ancient traditions and stories of resilience. Through Turquoise Mountain, these timeless textiles find new life in the modern world.

Paper holds a distinguished place in the history of the Serenissima, a region whose rich cultural heritage continually reveals unexpected insights and original artifacts. Yet, in the hands of Marta Nardi, paper transcends its traditional form and blossoms into something entirely new: a flower. From full bouquets and single peonies designed as brooches, to delicate stems bursting with petals – Marta's creations showcase her boundless creativity. Self taught, she brings her artistic vision to life with skills borrowed from goldsmithing, and credits two essential qualities for her success: creativity and sheer determination.

South African sculptor, Dylan Lewis, is renowned for his profound, figurative bronzes that reflect nature's wild grace. From painting to sculpture, Lewis masterfully captures the essence of apex predators and human forms. His works are displayed in prestigious venues, and in his sculpture garden in Stellenbosch. He tells Emma Becque about his craft, and how personal tragedy has shaped his trajectory.

Senegalese-French artist and textile designer Aïssa Dione is celebrated for her impactful work reviving Senegal’s traditional textiles while preserving the rich heritage of Manjak weaving. Dione skillfully merges her dual cultural influences from painting to fabric design to create contemporary, luxurious fabrics and furnishings. Her company, Aïssa Dione Tissus, has collaborated with prestigious brands like Hermès and has played a pivotal role in saving Senegal’s artisan textile industry from the threat of cheap imports.

From the earliest Neolithic discoveries at Çatalhöyük to the exquisite Ottoman carpets that adorned Renaissance canvases, Anatolia’s weaving heritage is a rich tapestry of tradition and artistry. Now, as contemporary designers breathe new life into the ancient techniques, the vibrant colors and patterns of these storied textiles continue to captivate, reminding us of a cultural legacy that spans both centuries and continents.

A versatile creative, Kenyan-born designer and ceramicist Lana Trzebinski, owner of a hand-crafted clothing and accessories line and an established ceramics studio, speaks to Lucrezia Lucas about her work with the rich clay of her homeland. Inspired by nature’s geometry, each sculpture evolves organically, taking on a life of its own through a process of joyful experimentation, filled with surprises.

In 1995, Brigitte Perkins came upon a group of artisanal weavers in the heart of the ancient Medina in Marrakesh. Since this discovery she has focused on reviving the almost defunct handmade production of Moroccan fabrics, in collaboration with a local group of weavers and embroiderers. This project has grown into a company: Tadert Titbirine.

Print artist Lisa King bridges Bangkok and London, drawing deeply from nature and her cross-cultural heritage. Her handmade batik collection pays homage to her childhood home, Railay Beach, Thailand. Lisa hand-draws sea-inspired prints inspired by her mother's shell collection. She discusses her craft, her journey through textiles, and how she shares her unique approach through workshops.