Lewes based designer and maker, Emma Carlow has always been inspired by folk art. So when we went into lockdown, Emma decided to virtually escape to The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Each day, seated at her kitchen table, she visited their online collection and allowed it to influence her work.

She began to wonder what the museum shop would be like. What would she like to buy there? This became the theme for her exhibition. She has designed a collection of objects that are related to the museum collection and would be for sale in her make-believe museum shop.

Emma is keen that her collection enables others to share her love of folk art. She is always clear about where her inspiration has come from so that others can discover the source for themselves. She enjoys learning the various craft techniques that the folk artists have used and her designs includes kits and instruction booklets that enable her exhibition customers to have a go for themselves. Her products are eco friendly, you will not find plastic fridge magnets.

As a fitting conclusion to Emma’s exhibition, The Museum of International Folk Art contacted Emma and a selection of Emma’s designs will now be avaialble for sale in their museum gift shop!