Beautifully wonky

For this post we’re back at the Argentine Ambassador’s Residence for another of the exhibits for London Design Week - each of the artists’ work was stunning, and their placement had clearly been carefully thought through.

These ‘beautifully wonky’ glass urns are by Chris Day and are titled ‘Under the Influence’ and they’re well named - it’s easy to see why. The glass is blown and sculpted onto a copper base, and copper wire and rope give them their delightful shape.

And the light from the full length windows on this sunny day really made them sing. The whole room full.

Each was beautiful, and I’m not sure I could choose a favourite - though I’m equally sure I couldn’t afford even one of them!

Black and white geometric patterns

When I walked into this room at the Argentine Ambassador’s Residence my breath was almost taken away. It was the modern geometric patterns against the traditional greys of the room - there couldn’t have been a better setting. But would you believe it, the tablecloths and ceramics aren’t by the same artist - but how well do they go together?

The main event here for me really is the ceramic sculptures. They’re by Björk Haraldsdóttir and it’s not only the strong patterns but the shapes of the pieces which fascinate me. I’m not sure I could choose a favourite piece, though the pair on the left of the photo below would be high up on my list.

Yes, these two.

It’s a pipe dream though as they’re out of my price range, but a girl can dream right?

And those tablecloths? They’re by Colour Squatters, which if I’m honest look great with these but are also pricey for tablecloths. But such a great match, and an expensive dream!

After the taking of tea

Remember my visit to the Ambassador’s Office during London Craft Week, well today I’m sharing one of the exhibits, and it’s the most divine tea service. Made all the better I think for the way it was displayed - and what better way, than on a dining table?

The pieces are by Charlotte Hodes and they are hand cut enamel transfers on chinaware. What appeals to me is the pattern, how they’re different but clearly related. The informality of them, but the formality of tea - and the quotes around the edge.

The broken tea cup though admittedly has much less real use, but just look at how the design flows between the oblong plates below.

AT THE CENTRE OF AN UNCERTAIN AND POSSIBLY ILLUSIONARY UNIVERSE THERE WOULD ALWAYS BE TEA.

And can you imagine a world without tea? No, me neither. MOH declared this week that it’s too cold for water and has upped his already considerable and much appreciated tea making duties.

TEA TO THE ENGLISH IS REALLY A PICNIC INDOORS

And I love the quote on the piece above, do you think it is?