Some of London’s finest craftspeople, who are responsible for restoring historic buildings and monuments across the city, are coming together on Monday 9 May to share their expertise as part of London Craft Week.
The event, Meet the Makers Behind London’s Heritage, is being hosted by the Heritage of London Trust (HOLT), an independent charity which has spearheaded restoration projects in the city for over 40 years.
Joined by designer Kit Kemp MBE, HOLT’s director Dr Nicola Stacey speaks to three makers: Isabella Gilding, Sue Lee, and Peter Campling.
Gilding is a model-maker who was commissioned by HOLT last year to create a miniature of one of its restoration projects, Croydon’s Stanley Halls.
The highly detailed work of architecture had its bronze busts along its façade stolen in the 1960s. The alcoves in which they sat have remained empty ever since.
Sue Lee established her decorative arts practice 20 years ago and specialises in working on stone, timber, and fine crafts such as water gilding. She has worked consistently with HOLT over many gilding projects, including at the Charterhouse in Smithfield and the Old Vic.
While Peter Campling has worked with HOLT on stained glass projects across London, as well as designing new windows. The jewel-like central window in Caroline Gardens Chapel has recently featured on the BBC.
Hosting the event is Dr Nicola Stacey, director of HOLT for six years, who has overseen many restoration projects across London. Joining her is Kit Kemp MBE, a multi-award-winning designer and co-owner of Firmdale Hotels.
The Heritage of London Trust has helped preserve more than 700 heritage sites in the city for the public’s enjoyment. HOLT focuses on the highest standards of craftsmanship and ensures that the most exquisite details of sites are restored to their full beauty.
London Craft Week celebrates outstanding British and international creativity, with the festival bringing together over 250 established and emerging makers, designers, brands, and galleries from around the world.
For more information on the event and the festival as a whole, please visit the London Craft Week website.
