Studio Visit | Sue Lowday

Sue Lowday puts the 'Art' into Artisan, Lowday’s background is in Silversmithing, many of her pieces are displayed at the Sheffield Museum. She has since ventured into Leatherwork and marries the two media magically, working from her studio on the Isle of Wight.

I like the tactility of your Table Mat designs, can you describe the making process?

I make a printing block in wood and metal, and the process is similar to printing on paper involving using a very heavy fly-press to indent the leather. I use top grain vegetable dyed hide that is the same style of leather used in saddles. It is extremely good quality and hard wearing.

What inspired you to make the transition from Silversmithing to Leatherwork? How do you combine the two facets? 

I still work in both media. However, I originally trained as a silversmith and use many silversmithing techniques to work the leather. The transition at that time was pragmatic at a time when my two children were very young and I was invited to produce a range of belts for Jonathan Silver at Saltaire. David Hockney has one of my belts with a silver buckle by Keith Tyssen.

Have you collaborated on any other projects?

Apart from working with Keith to develop the belt to fit his buckle, I worked with a fashion designer to produce a range of umbrella handles and belts a few years ago for a catwalk event. Small projects like that.


I notice the screen has silver panels?
I always wanted to make a screen after seeing screens designed by my heroine Eileen Grey.

I decided to combine silver and leather together. The process of applying silver leaf to leather was used as early as the 16^th century on embossed wall coverings mainly on the continent. You can imagine grand rooms lit by candelight with the walls lacquered to look golden shimmering in the light. I learned the technique with a master conservator, Theo Sturge. My silver screen panels catch the light nicely. All the items I have illustrated on the screen are from my kitchen, or are pieces that I have made in silver or gold. The screen has been exhibited at the Crafts Council show Origin, and Fortnum and Mason.

Where are your designs sold?

I sell online on my website, notonthehighstreet and at excellent quality craft events such as Art in Action at Waterperry Gardens. See you there in July!