About

Welcome to The Pip House!
Background...
I trained in art & design, firstly by immersing myself in a wonderful year of creativity via a foundation diploma at the Berkshire College of Art & Design. Then, in 1999 I graduated from Derby University with a degree in Fashion, developing a particular interest in fair trade.  For about 15 years I ran creative enterprises for people with mental illness, working both in the charity and public sectors.  It has always been my goal to use creativity as a force for good. 

 

 

 

Why houses...

My work is inspired by a love of old houses.  I love the aesthetics of a neglected house ...layers of chipped paint, peeling wallpaper and rusted nails.  I use reclaimed wood from house renovations, old bits of furniture, skirting board, builders off cuts.  Using mixed media, I find myself exploring the meaning of home, the interactions, the good times and the bad.  To me, the layers of paint and wallpaper reflect the many happenings that have come and gone.  I often use hand stamped words to evoke reflections of the past, or simply to bring connection and joy to the present. 

 

The letterbox range...

The Letterbox range was developed from some leftover skirting board.  These little houses are now available all year round.  They make perfect keepsakes for a range of occasions and people, allowing you to choose your own meaningful words.  Little gifts to bring words of love, joy and comfort into homes. 

When home is not a happy place...
I'm very aware that home is not always a safe place, and so, through The Pip House, I've been looking at ways to support the work of Refuge, a charity looking after women and children escaping domestic abuse.  I have begun a tradition of selling little hanging houses every Christmas, with £5 per house going straight to the charity.
Our planet, our home...
I'm also on a mission to develop planet-friendly habits both personally and as a small business, so reusing and recycling is a key element to my work.  The majority of wood i source is reclaimed from house renovations, broken furniture, local businesses or FSC approved.  I use eco-friendly paint from companies such as Farrow & Ball or The Little Greene Co., and packaging that is made from recycled materials and is recyclable.
                                                       
Pip xx