Member Article

Cumbrian wood carver sets up Manchester business

A Cumbrian artist has moved to Manchester to establish his business and launch himself internationally.

Wayne Hart of Hart Studio, which he set up in October 2012, has spent years in the Cumbrian countryside where he has perfected his craft of woodcarving combined with modern technologies.

The artist recently launched his business in Manchester with help from start-up specialists, Blue Orchid, which he found through the Chamber of Commerce.

After graduating from the University of Reading in Typography and Graphic Communication, Wayne secured work experience with a renowned carner, Richard Kindersley, and went on to win £24,000 in grants for a letter carving apprenticeship with mentor, Pip Hall.

Following a string of professional commissions, Wayne set up his own business before working with Blue Orchid.

He commented: “I’ve always wanted to launch a business and be in control of my own destiny. I have a passion for creativity and making beautiful objects, and Hart Studio has allowed me to achieve the things I have strived for, including making a name for myself in the art world.

“The team at Blue Orchid is giving me all the support I need to ensure my business is successful. My business advisor, Phil Bell, is extremely knowledgeable and meets me before working hours, so our meetings do not affect my hectic work schedule.

“As well as receiving one-to-one support, I’ve attended training workshops on finance and law to learn about the recent changes in legislation that affect my business. I’m also hoping to set up my own website shortly, which Blue Orchid will help me with.”

Since Hart Studio opened last year, Wayne has completed a commission to create a C.S.Lewis memorial for Westminster Abbey, and will be working with the Maison de la Culture d’Amiens in France.

Wayne also won the Gold Award for Specialist Media and Craft Maker of the Year 2013 at the Craft & Design Selected Awards and is already receiving praise from his industry peers.

Blue Orchid’s business advisor Phil Bell said: “Wayne is one of those special people who, when you offer advice, takes it on board, absorbs it and uses it.

“His business model reverts back to the days when this country had a cottage industry, when artisans were found in countryside towns and cities, and a person took pride in their work. He is the best of British, and is on track to becoming the country’s best letter carver.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .