Sarah Hamilton is a craft manufacturer creating mirrors, prints and cards from her eponymous South London studio. Sarah is passionate about drawing, colour and textured materials. She has a joyful and fresh approach to design, embracing contemporary and Mid-Century Scandinavian aesthetics. She adores silkscreen printing, especially the moment when she gets to lifts a screen to reveal a glorious blend of heavenly colours. She also has a MA in Printmaking from Camberwell. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Sarah Hamilton.
Image Credit: 1) Georgia Bosson 2) Gabriel Aszulman 3) Un Square 4) Anna Wiscombe 5) Skandic Hus
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My work is joyful, fresh and contemporary, with a Mid-Century Scandinavian feel. Colours, and their effect on each other, fascinate me. Put simply my colours must sing.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
All my artwork and designs start as sketchbook drawings. Whilst I do use the computer to manipulate images the hand-drawn aesthetic is incredibly important to me.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
There’s so many, but at the moment I’m working with Patricia van den Akker at The Design Trust on the Just A Card campaign, and I very much value her vision and support of Designer/Makers. The campaign aims to encourage people to buy from Designer/Makers/Independent Galleries and Shops by reinforcing the message that all purchases, however small, even 'just a card' are so vital to the prosperity and survival of small businesses.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
Milton Avery, William Scott and Georges Braques, Folk Art from North America and Mexican papercuts/tinwork are just some of my influences. I adore fifties textile and poster designs for their sophisticated, yet deceptively effortless, beauty.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Always following my own path – being open to new ideas and enjoying the voyage of discovery along the way. My advice to others would be always keep in mind your creative aims, try new things and don’t compare yourself to other people. Ultimately, the most interesting thing about you is you!
