Art to Scarf

Abode2 caught up with designer Tamara Williams, to find out more about the inspiration behind her RubyKite Art Scarves and how she and partner Joy Leese work together to create their highly individual limited edition scarves on silk and cashmere.

What led you to create Ruby Kite?

Joy and I have known each other for many years, as our children have grown up together. Our career paths crossed a couple of years ago, when Joy visited one of my exhibitions. She suggested making some of my more contemporary paintings and print making into scarves - it really was a turning point in both our lives. When she shared the samples, I was beyond excited! They really were beautiful.  And so RubyKite was created.

What inspires your designs?

My design background informs and influences all of our work, from a love of composition and visual space, to the energy and freedom of abstract line work and textural layers. Ideas are inspired by nature and always start with drawings, with the landscape around my studio near The River Thames being an especially strong influence. The colours change through each season and are inspirational in so many ways.

How would you describe your style?

I would say natural contemporary with a strong emphasis on texture. I love exploring the visual effects created by different printmaking techniques - and by working with gypsum as a print medium, I’m able to create intricate textures that become hugely abstracted when taken large over our scarves. The gypsum also creates a signature palette of chalky, natural tones which work so well on silk and cashmere.

What are the benefits of working with Silk?

So many! Joy has really opened my eyes to the beauty of working with silk. It’s a more sustainable, lower impact, natural fibre that feels beautiful and has excellent thermal qualities – keeping you cool in the Summer and warm in the Winter. The silk we use for our large squares is perfectly weighted to drape well, with a smooth matt finish that compliments the natural feel of my original artwork. We are starting to explore different types of silk – our latest “Tree” etching has been printed on a heavier weight silk satin which oozes opulence and for 2021, We’re exploring a range of organic silks.

What can we expect from Ruby Kite in 2021?

We’re just over a year old which means we’re incredibly excited about the possibilities for the brand. Making our products as sustainable as possible is really important to us. We’re already minimising waste; printing in small batches and replacing our gift boxes with silk pouches made from off-cuts from our “Tree” design, as well as printing with dyes that are AZO free. But there’s still so much more we can do. Our ambition is to create treasured, timeless pieces that prioritise longevity over fast fashion. Season-less fashion at its very best!

https://www.rubykite.co.uk