Yes, it’s the second one and even better than last year. The House of Detention, a former prison with dank underground cells had a selection of new design companies showing their wares.
One find was Graphic Relief, www.graphicrelief.co.uk . Eric Barrett and Mark Dale create moulded concrete wall tiles and panels up to 2 x 1.3m with an amazing level of detail. The tiles on show co-ordinate with Timorous Beasties’ new lace fabrics. Mark showed me the delicacy of one of the panels – I have never seen concrete look so “soft”. I can’t tell you how heavy they are; Mark did the holding, I did the surface stroking which suited me just fine.
I’m afraid my photo doesn’t give it credit – remember this was in a dimly lit cell so good for atmosphere but not for accuracy. Visit their website for better images.
I always like to see a really good idea that solves a practical problem. Quarterre is one of those companies. Their Hood bike rack simply works, both as a bike holder and also when you need to mend or clean the thing. And you can hang your helmet from it too. OK, I know there isn’t a full bike on the rack but there’s enough here to give you an idea. And it’s manufactured in the UK. Hooray! www.quarterre.com
Those South London boys Henzel and Hunt (see my post last year) showed new pieces, some more eccentric than others but all with the upcycling they are known for. Love the marquetry table and benches. www.henzelandhunt.com
More to come in the next few days.
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