A new creative talent is making his mark in Belgravia. Luke Edward Hall has opened a new pop-up shop on Motcomb Street to bring his signature illustrations and designs to life in the area.
The 28-year-old, who studied at Central Saint Martins, has achieved more than many of us might do in a lifetime. He launched his own studio in 2015, collaborates on projects with everyone from Burberry to Berry Bros, and has introduced a collection of stunning artwork.
Here we talk to the London-based artist about his inspirations, passions and which piece of art he would buy if we gave him an unlimited budget.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself?
A: My artwork includes a mixture of drawing, paintings and ceramics. I have worked on collaborations with Burberry, Christie’s, Sotheby’s and Berry Bros. Recently, I worked with The Royal Academy to celebrate its 250th anniversary with a new glassware range.
Q: Where are London’s most creative streets?
A: This is a tricky one. There are lots of pockets of creativity with different people doing different things in the capital. But there are two places that standout: Lamb’s Conduit Street in Bloomsbury and Motcomb Street in Belgravia for the interesting people, shops and places to eat.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: Lots of people inspire me from Cecil Beaton and Stephen Tennant to Rex Whistler and Oliver Messel. I also like The Bloomsbury Group for their ethos as well as artists, including Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. Other artists who inspire me include: Jean Cocteau, Picasso and Matisse.
Q: What do you like about London?
A: London is a magical and inspiring place for young designers.
Q: If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you take with you?
A: I would probably take a sketchbook and pencil case. Plus, a camera and some headphones. I might sneak a streaming service along, too! Music and photographs always inspire me.
Q: Describe your dream home?
A: I would like to rent a folly in the countryside. Very possibly a tower or something architecturally interesting, fun and quirky. I love buildings. My other dream home would be on the Piano Nobile in Venice.
Q: What art should everyone try to have in their homes?
A: It does not really matter what it is, or the price. Colour is the big thing for me. Perhaps it is a colourful painting or drawing. I love pink and green, but enjoy all colours.
Q: Which parts of London have you painted, sketched or drawn over the years?
A: I enjoy going to Hampstead Heath and Kenwood House, as I live in north London. Regent’s Park is fun, too.
Q: If you could buy any piece of artwork in the world with an unlimited budget, what would it be?
A: It would probably be a giant Hockney or a Picasso.
Q: Some people eat chocolate, others drink coffee to boost their creativity. What do you do?
A: I try to get away to the countryside or enjoy travelling to Italy, for its food and architecture.
Q: If you could go back in time – which year would you choose and why?
A: I really like the inter-war period in London – it was magical and mischievous. I am such a romantic, looking on this time through rose-tinted glasses. I also like reading about this period.
Q: What pieces of your artwork would you suggest for a long-term investment?
A: Definitely something hand-painted that is unique and a one-off. A drawing, painting or a piece of ceramic.
Q: What is the most important room in the house?
A: It would have to be the kitchen, because I love to cook. I enjoy living in one room, where people can eat, cook and relax. A drawing room is nice, too.
Q: And finally, what advice would you give to anyone who wants to become an artist?
A: You need conviction, while staying true to your ideas. And believe in your own point of view as well as the aesthetics. This can be hard to do in the creative industries. A mixture of luck and pushing what you have, is the key.
- Discover Luke EdwardHall’s pop-up shop at 8 Motcomb Street, London SW1X. The shop is open from 10am to 6pm. There is a range of artwork, home accessories, trays and clothing. Prices start from £27 for fabric badges to £4,500 for a pair of embroidered chairs. The store is open until July 14.
- To find out more, visit lukeedwardhall.com or Instagram:
Lukeedwardhall. - Photo credit: The Guardian
