Lola Lely Studio

Lola Lely Studio is a multi-disciplinary studio founded by designer and RCA graduate Lola Lely. Lola was born in Hanoi but grew up in the UK, curious from an early age on how objects are made. Drawing, making and the connections between, material, process and maker are all central to her practice. Specialising in narrative driven installations and furniture, Lola brings an open spirit to her projects, collaborating with anthropologists, storytellers, chefs and silversmiths to produce her work.

Maker's Story

THE PROCESS

Lola Lely practices craft in fresh and unexpected ways by linking contemporary practices and technology with age-old techniques, including patinated bronze, indigo dyed wooden furniture and even creating her own kit of tools to produce her work. Lola is also heavily inspired by the natural world, exploring the extraordinary palette of natural wax and plant dyeing, and its varied applications. Lola enjoys collaborating with other British craftsmen to realise her work - including leather workers and metal fabricators - and sources all materials from the UK.

Q&A

1. What motivates you to make?

I get a lot of satisfaction from working with natural materials such as wax, paper, plant dyes and textiles. I gain insight through experimentation and research by approaching my craft in a fresh and inventive way.

2. What and/or who are you most inspired or influenced by?

I have deep admiration for Japanese craft throughout the centuries and am inspired by the work Isamu Noguchi and the Fashion designer Issey Miyake. I am influenced by their poetic and often radical approach to materials. This is what I strive in my own work - to achieve a balance between the sculptural and the practical, without one having more importance over the other. My Boro table and collection of Kabuto suspended lights are two examples of this philosophy.

3. What is your unique approach to your craft, and how have you honed your skills?

My approach to craft has been developed through many years of working with materials such as plants dyes and waxes. I try push the boundaries of what is possible and seek to evolve my craft with every new project.

I am motivated and excited by research, discovering new technologies and age-old crafts techniques. Collaboration with people from different craft disciplines is also something that I enjoy and actively pursue.

4. What is your defining or proudest moment as a maker so far?

I am mentor and judging panelist on several Industry and Craft awards. I am proud of my work helping young and emerging makers to establish careers in the Art and Craft sectors, as I believe it is very important to nurture new talent, especially young people from underrepresented backgrounds.

In terms of my own projects, I am particularly fond of my new lighting collection for the New Craftsmen. The lights are playful, practical, and unique!

5. What is your dream project?

I would like to design a four-poster bed and a sofa. It would give me the opportunity to create something utterly unique, yet practical at the same time.