The intersection between art and design feels most intrinsic when the ideas are tied together by materials from the natural world. That is pretty much our remit. Finding ways to connect craft with concept; translating seemingly ordinary, prolific matter into beautiful objects. We’ve always danced between form and function, crafting sculptural expressions that stand in and outside buildings, as well as everyday objects that make up a home. Working with French artist Marguerite Humeau’s studio for her exhibition at White Cube Bermondsey earlier this year felt like leaning into this binary.

Each of the leaves has a uniquely textured surface, carved from a decaying horse chestnut tree richly figured with burr and bark. In contrast to the top surface, the leaf’s backs were lined with smoothly finished spalted beech and subtle runners that held them slightly about the ground. All together the pieces offer an otherworldly feeling of forgotten lands, bustling animal life and ethereal decay.

Fallen Leaf I-IV, The Guardian of the Fungus Garden, The Lying Body, The Honey Holder © Marguerite Humeau.

Photo © White Cube (Ollie Hammick)