Steve Handley

A close up of artist Steve Handley

Steve Handley trained as a sculptor in the 1960’s and taught for many years. Steve’s fine art background enables him to approach furniture design with a free spirit without the usual conventions of tradition.

Steve is renowned for his unusual and witty furniture. From his studio here at Welbeck, (formerly the estate’s blacksmithing workshop) he creates all manner of furniture from all manner of discarded objects.

Much of Steve’s inspiration comes from four sources: the agricultural past and rural debris; Irish country furniture; East European folk art; things made by the ‘unskilled’ out of resourceful necessity. His strength as a maker is in the re-invention of uses for abandoned objects. Watch a documentary about Steve’s work here.

Each Steve Handley piece is different and carefully made from reclaimed timber. Much of the decoration added to his tables, chairs and cupboards are rare gems from a bygone age, collected over the years by Steve.

With poetic wizardry he brings together the discarded into new things with form and function. He can inscribe his pieces visibly with one of his own poetic rhymes or a special message straight from the heart maybe tucked away somewhere out of sight.

Plan a visit to see Steve Handley’s furniture available to buy in The Harley Shop.

Alternatively, you can commission Steve to make you a unique gift made here on your doorstep. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

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