Harry the Dryadephant

Created by: Laura Bowden
Sponsored by: Dryad Education
Location: The Circle – New Walk

Overview

The sculpture is inspired by the Leicester based company Dryad Handicrafts – founded in 1907 – and its main founder Harry Hardy Peach.

Dryad became influential designers and crafters of cane & rattan furniture during the Arts & Crafts movement in the UK.

Artist LOZZIBF23’s interpretation features many of the intricacies of the repeat patterns and design details used in Dryad’s wickerweave furniture – as if showcased at the World Fair of 1910.

Location

The Circle – New Walk

Meet the Artist

Laura Bowden (LOZZIEBF23)

Originally from Bristol but currently living in Exeter I started working life as a Graphic assistant in Screen Printing before freelancing, private commissions and sign writing as my main source of income.

Artistic pursuits then put on hold for travelling, living my best life and raising a family as a stay at home mum until both children finished University and flew the nest. So it is only in the last 4 years I have found my way back to my art.

Last year I was fortunate enough to be selected to paint one of my designs on a Shaun the Sheep for the Brighton & Hove 2023 art trail. ‘Masquerade’ later sold at auction generating £3,200 for Martlets Hospice care. Lot 16 @shaunbythesea on Instagram. Such a privilege and an unforgettable experience.

I still work totally analog and really enjoy the whole design and creation process, producing bold, punchy stylised artwork using bright colours and metallic acrylic paints. My style is heavily influenced by my love of all things Arts & Crafts, Art Deco and Art Nouveau. 

Meet the Sponsor

Dryad Education

We are a leading supplier of Art, Design and Technology resources to educational establishments, students and artists worldwide.

Our extensive range includes over 28,000 products, including our own Specialist Crafts brand, offering high-quality art materials at sensible prices. Our in-house experts continuously try, test, and develop the range, staying ahead of the trends to ensure you have access to the latest products and techniques

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