Famed for her distinctive style and passion for the British countryside, Dee’s work is inspired by the rich landscape that surrounds her Monmouthshire studio. To date many of her designs have been transposed onto fine china, kitchen linen, stationery and greetings cards as Dee explains: “In addition to my Artisan pieces, I work closely with select UK based companies that promote authenticity and quality resulting in a family of products that bring something special into everyday life. Turtle Mat fits perfectly with this practice and I feel inspired to be working with such a creative team.”
This unique partnership will see the launch later this year of three mat designs with plans for more to be unveiled in 2014. The first collection will comprise Oak Leaf, Butterfly and Olive. Oak Leaf, is inspired by the vibrant colours of autumn and was designed to reflect the tile patterning (tesserae) which epitomises Dee Hardwicke’s work.
The Usk Valley near Dee’s home is rich in wildlife and botanical inspiration. It was here whilst out with her sketchbook that Dee begun drawing butterflies. Turtle Mat has re-interpreted one of her original works as a single image in soft but contrasting charcoal and green.
The final design currently being worked on is Olive, taken from a series of Hardwicke’s artwork on vines, grapes and berries. Its design in shades of greens has a majestic flow and with its detailed patterning will make it ideal for disguising muddy footprints.
All three mat designs will be available in Turtle Mats standard 60cm x 85cm size and will retail at £49.95. Oak Leaf will also be available as a runner (75cm x 120cm) with an expected retail price of £84.95.
“We are always on the look-out for new and interesting collaborations,” explains Turtle Mat’s Commercial Director Susan Leaver.
“Many of our designs stem from patterns in nature andDee’s work translates beautifully onto the natural texture and colours of Turtle Mats. Her distinctive style and craftsmanship was also a real draw for us. She is a talented artist and her work translates well into products for everyday living. This range has been developed to work alongside other flooring products which has led to a further new collaboration with a top flooring specialist, details of which I will be able to reveal later in the year.”
The Turtle Mat stand will be located in Hall 9 at stand H31/ J30
