MICHAEL CHANDLER

ARTIST

I am an artist, product and space designer as well as curator of a small gallery and shop in Cape Town.

When I need to get away from my crazy, manic life, you can find me on a Sunday morning, listening to opera on my iPhone, beachcombing along Cape Town’s beautiful shores. I love seashells, so when the chance presented itself to design earrings for Tinsel, in a fan-like design, it seemed obvious to channel my love for scallops. A little pearl on the lower half adds a touch of glamour and romance.

To me something is sacred if hands have been involved in its manufacture. Every human is unique; the result of long and complex histories which ultimately inform the decisions that a craftsperson makes when crafting something by hand. This is incredible and should be celebrated over mechanised production methods.

I was lucky enough to be approached by the team at Sanlam after working on a project called “Again & Again”, where I hand drew a 600cm-long illustration. I think this proved my love for hand-made pieces and was my ticket into the show.

I believe passionately in handmade work and craft and so to have this platform, where I can share my designs with others, is a huge deal. The exposure can only be a positive thing for everyone. I’m looking forward to the fair because every year a new wave of talent emerges which I find exciting and invigorating. I’m excited to see the new little fish swimming in the big pond.