Required Reading: The Fantastic Mister Finch - Remodelista
Remodelista contributing editor Justine Hand became an instant fan of Mister Finch when she discovered his work on Etsy a while back. The two struck up a mutual admiration, and when Finch embarked on his first book project, Mister Finch: Living in a Fairytale World (just published by Glitterati), he asked her to contribute the preface. A British textile artist who stitches stuffed animals, insects, and flowers from leftover scraps, the mysterious Mister Finch works out of a studio in Yorkshire, England, that’s “full of books, glass jars, and naughty cats. I’ve called my business Mister Finch so it’s clear from the start that I’m a man and one that sews.” Finch taps into the fantasy of fairytales and folklore, and, on first viewing, his one-of-a-kind creatures seem a tad sinister, but move in closer and you’ll find beautifully hand-sewn details that are poetic and achingly beautiful. Here’s a look at some highlights from the book. An owl made from recycled materials. Velvet curtains from an old hotel, a threadbare wedding dress, and a vintage apron become birds and beasts looking for new owners and adventures to have.” Finch’s addition of clothing adds a human element to his creatures: “I like to imagine them coming alive at night. Getting dressed or helping an elderly shoemaker or the tired housewife.” Butterflies and moths are a longstanding Mister Finch obsession. Mister Finch wearing one of his own creations attached to his coat. Mister Finch: Living in a Fairytale World is available worldwide from Amazon; $45. See Mister Finch’s leather creations in our post An Edgy Textile Artist.