How did you become a leatherworker?
I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty of leather. It was an infatuation first, then a hobby, and now – at last – my job. It’s a clean craft, quite easy to start, but the key factor is the beauty of the material: you can give it any shape and there is a huge array of finishes to play with.
How would you define your style?
My style is highly informed by the material, which I try to respect as much as possible. I only use the best available leather and I let it do the talking. My designs are paired down and clean, with simple but considered details in order to accentuate the beauty of the leather.
© Simon Brown
What are the environmental impacts of your craft?
It’s a matter of respect for the environment – I use predominantly vegetable tanned leather from as close to home as possible, usually the UK, Italy or Spain. Any timber used in my pieces is responsibly sourced. Manual work is endangered, so we need to support each other. It’s a political stance.
What is for you the added value of handmade?
Industrial products can be perfectly designed and executed but their perfection lacks character. They seem dead to me. Working a material or piece by hand is essential to giving it a soul.