Cool Wedding Signs + Unique Wedding Artwork Gifts…
Today we chat with the lovely Andrew J Mason about his incredible collection of traditional sign paintings and gilded artwork; which make ideal unique wedding gift…
Introduce yourself…
Hi I’m Andrew J Mason and I work with the disappearing skills of traditional sign painting and gilding. That means working with gold leaf which requires patience and a delicate touch. I’ve been making art in one form or another for most of my life but only recently found a medium from which I am now able to make a living. I’m determined to bring this beautiful and unique art form to people who may not have previously been aware of it.
What are a few of your favourite things?
I’ve got pretty eclectic tastes so you’re just as likely to find me at the opera, walking long distance trails or binge watching Game of Thrones! As I work alone I’ll always be listening to radio 4 or perhaps a podcast. I get through a lot of those.
Tell us about where the magic happens – where’s your HQ?
I have the pleasure of being able to work from home so my studio is quite literally the spare room. It’s small but perfectly formed and works well for me as I often need to complete the final stages of gilding late at night.
How and why did you start up your business?
I spent many years working as a teacher but eventually the need to do something creative got the better of me. I learned sign painting and gilding sort of by accident but was immediately bitten by the bug and it hasn’t let go of me yet. I’ve always loved producing art in all sorts of forms so it was amazing to find something which I could base a business on.
What do you love most about your job?
It’s a bit corny but making things that give other people pleasure never stops giving me a thrill. Also there is something very satisfying about starting out with a collection of raw materials and finishing with a unique creation. I love exhibiting at fairs and shows as sharing what I do with people who previously knew nothing about it never fails to put a smile on my face.
What makes your work unique?
Well there are not many gilders at work today, it really is a dying craft, and almost no one that I know of who offers what I do. I constantly get an incredible response from customers as they had no idea that it was possible to get hold of gold leaf art.
What kind of couples are ‘your couples’?
This is quite hard to pin down but generally I think it’s those couples who are open minded, looking for something different and appreciate the quality of hand made items. I often find that people who are interested in sign painting, typography and graphic design really appreciate my work.
What would be your advice for couples looking to plan a wedding totally unique to them?
Be yourself and remember it’s your wedding. Do it your way and have the courage of your convictions.
What inspires you?
Like all designers I spend my life being inspired by the work of others and feel blessed to live in the age of Instagram! I also get so many great ideas through working with my customers who constantly give me new perspectives on what I do. I can’t count the number of times that I’ve got great ideas as a result.
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Being an uncle! I’d do anything for my nieces and nephews.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt?
Be yourself and let your own style emerge. This is not always easy but it’s what separates you from everyone else and ultimately where you’ll find the greatest satisfaction. And listen to your customers. Know what they want and be guided by their ideas.
In your opinion, what makes a great wedding?
I worked for a while as a wedding photographer and so attended a great many weddings and the best ones, in my opinion, were always the ones that reflected the personalities of the couple. They did things their way and not to please others
What exciting bits are in the pipeline?
My business is still fairly new but growing all the time which is exciting, and as I grow I’m getting involved in bigger and more unique projects. I’m always learning new techniques too and over the coming months I’ll be able to offer new ranges of products, styles and designs.
To find out more visit Andrew’s website HERE
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