Tucked away
in a little side street of London’s leafy Hampstead, Maud and Mabel is full of
treasure. The shop mostly sells ceramics, however, a sprinkling of textiles and
other home-wares can be found there too. Last week the Interiors Almanac met
Karen Whitely, the founder of Maud and Mabel. Whitely explained her love affair
with pots and the Japanese design philosophy 'Shibumi', which is reflected
throughout the store, with its simple, subtle and unobtrusive beauty.
First of all, where does the name Maud & Mabel come from?
“Maud and Mabel
just came to me in a flash of inspiration. But I am sure influenced by names of
teachers from my boarding school.”
How did you begin trading in ceramics and is your background in
design?
“My working
life started with Sam Haskins a famous photographer from the seventies and I
was the stylist...it was on the Kings Road and a very exciting time. I also
worked for Pan Henry (Mick Cassons sister) at the Casson Gallery on Marylebone
high street at a time when studio pottery was becoming very popular. We showed
Lucie Rie, Hans Coper amongst many other great British talents. It was here
that my passion for ceramics developed.”
How many designers do you promote at the Hampstead store?
“We show the
work of about 25 ceramic artists. Mainly from GB but also Japan, Finland and
Italy.”
I notice you represent many Japanese ceramists’; do you have an
affinity for Japanese design?
“I do
appreciate Japanese philosophy of design, in particular 'Shibumi' which I
believe the aesthetic of my gallery/shop echoes and the principles of the Zen
philosophy of design.”
I really like the Wedding list service you offer, as it nice to
think that each bespoke piece will mark the start of a journey and can be
passed from generation to generation. This notion also reflects the ‘Shibumi’ ethos,
whereby objects do not tire, but constantly find a new meaning. Can you explain
a little more about this service?
“The Wedding
list is quite a unique and personal service. The way it works is the couple
come into the shop and carefully make their choices for their unique gift list
we then create a private website for their guests with images, information on
the makers etc… enabling guests to
make an informed decision. The pieces are then packaged beautifully before
being delivered to the happy couple, nearly all the works offered are one off
pieces and many are collectors’ items. The couples therefore start their
married life with a selection of wonderful ceramic/wood pieces for their home
and all the work is cohesive so sits very happily together.”
Do you take commissions at the store?
“Yes, I often take commissions, but it needs to be clear that no two pieces will ever be exact. So there will be a slight variation in dimensions and glaze.”
Your little emporium is set in beautiful surroundings, which aspect of Hampstead do you enjoy most?
“For me it is always the Heath, It is gentle on the soul and always offers some exciting new colour/light etc…”
Can you recommend any other places worth visiting whilst in the area?
“Judy Greens garden store is enchanting, also The Livingstone Studio...indescribably beautiful offering hand made garments and textiles.”
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