Five Designers & Makers Of Colour To Have On Your Radar
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2 months ago
Interior designer Alex Dauley shares her recommendations
Showcasing a broad range of talented makers and artists is hugely important to the growth and democratisation of the interior design industry, says designer and TV presenter Alex Dauley. Here are a few makers of colour to keep in mind…
Alex Dauley Shares Her Favourite Makers Of Colour
As designers, we’re always looking for inspiration to feed and drive our own creativity, and often I find myself inspired by fellow creatives: the artists and makers that share with us their talent and enable us to collaborate, weaving their stories into our wider design narratives.
Art is subjective and personal, and I’m naturally drawn to artists and makers that evoke an emotion in me – whether they make me smile or leave me in awe of the craftsmanship and detail in their creations.
Working closely with journalist Busola Evans, the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and United in Design have commissioned a Guide to Makers and Creators, highlighting talented makers of colour. Soon to be published, this brilliant directory will help designers find new and emerging talent, alongside well established (but perhaps not well known) creatives.
Here are a few that I would like to highlight as personal favourites. The work of these talented makers is something to be celebrated all year round – not just for Black History Month – but hearing about them now should place them firmly on your expanding suppliers lists.
Jay Heston
I stumbled across Jay at the Mid Century Modern show in Dulwich earlier this year. As a self-taught furniture maker, I was immediately drawn to Jay’s very cool aesthetic and craftsmanship in his designs – a very happy discovery. donheston.com
Malene Barnett
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Malene was the subject of a magazine article that I found, and I’m so pleased I did. The coloured ceramic installations that she creates are just stunning (I’m manifesting commissioning them for an upcoming project!). I have also pre-ordered Malene’s upcoming book, Crafted Kinship, which highlights the practises of contemporary black Caribbean makers. malenebarnett.com
Amechi Mandi
Product designer Amechi’s work always puts a smile on my face; bold colours and patterns are a staple of every collection he produces. They’re a surefire way to inject fun into a project. amechihome.com
McCollin Bryan
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I wasn’t familiar with the work of this dynamic duo until my United in Design co-founder Sophie Ashby showcased a few of their pieces in her room at Wow House. I was a fan from that day on, and I highly covet their glass-topped side tables, which are like jewels for the home. mccollinbryan.com
Dalia James
I was presented with Dalia’s amazing work when I sat on the panel of a Cockpit Arts award back in 2022. She went on to win the award, and has since created many more stunning pieces of woven artwork. The production process of each piece is so intricate; it’s a really beautiful and humbling experience. daliajames.com
To find out more about Alex’s work, check out alexdauley.com. For more information about the Guide to Makers and Creators, visit unitedindesign.com.
