Leah Faulks

Leah Faulks is a craftsperson responding to the belief that diversity, youth and fresh perspectives are essential to evolve craft traditions for modern Scotland. She is part of a new generation of makers transferring heritage craft skills to redesign traditional Scottish metalwork.

Leah crafts objects informed by her personal experience of Scottishness by focusing on authenticity, comfort and playfulness. She combines the traditional handcraft techniques of silversmithing and casting with contemporary digital techniques of 3D printing and CNC milling. The work aims to become living heritage with objects designed to be held and enjoyed.

The collection is linked by ‘tartan-ish’ patterns, celebrating the rich texture of the materials. These loose interpretations of tartan deliberately escape the prescribed grid, embodying curiosity and uninhibited creativity. The patterns inlaid in the wooden handles of the sgian dubhs intend to catch the light while ceilidh dancing. The ‘tartan-ish’ patterns trace across the surface of the cup quaichs, each providing a unique tactile experience when held. Finally, they are reflected onto the surface of bowl quaichs from the wooden base below. The patterns become reimagined handles allowing a drink to be shared among friends.