It's not just about the present; it's about honoring the past and transforming it into a brighter future

Being a part of a small family venture Handcrafted by Eva Kuno, I take great interest in researching on other small businesses (just like ours) and what it takes to keep them running. I recently visited a beautiful studio of a small business owned by an extremely inspiring man who is bursting with creative ideas.  His name is Lee and he owns Upcycled Creative which is  based in Belper, Derbyshire UK.  

Lee the creator

Lee is an extraordinary person capable of enjoying the wonder and the marvel of an ordinary life. Before quitting his well paid job, he started making lighting from unused materials. A small unique Upcycled Creative business was born. It is based on the principle of transforming unwanted items into something much more attractive. It is just like recycling but kinder to the environment as it involves no machinery process but all art by the work of hands and necessary tools. 

Lee enjoys the hunt for good materials. He collects waste materials ranging from empty bottles from clubs and restaurants, buying vintage fire extinguishers, lanterns and pipes from eBay and car boot or home moving sales to make funky, functional light lamps and furniture. Anything that used to be something else is fair game. 

Wasted materials brought to second life

The most ordinary things could be made extraordinary simply by the touch of the right person. Lee has the talent and, most importantly, passion for that. He is learning and developing his style by observing surroundings, experimenting, and following his instincts. He loves giving his pieces of work a new lease on life. Lee's lighting is not just about the present, but rather about honoring the past and transforming it into a brighter future.

Lee's vision

In most of his lightings Lee uses Filament bulbs.  With a very soft glow these light bulbs look like works of art. Their exposed filaments add a touch of vintage to any home, bar or lobby area.

'Thinking man'

 

Examples of Upcycled Creative's work

Lee bases his designs not only on his creative liking but on the opinion of his customers making his commodities a price of art. What is mind-blowing is that he does this all with his hands. His style is unique, eye catching and definitely beautiful. I am excited and humbled that he offered to teach me how to make a lamp!

I must add, Lee's workshop is as impressive and well thought of as his work. One would think that working with vintage and waste materials is a messy business, but it doesn't seem like it being in Upcycled Creative’s studio. In contrast, it is extremely tidy, functional and well organized. He has all the materials and tools needed right on hand; starting with a notebook for ideas to write and finishing with a photo shoot set up for finished products to shoot. I am always thrilled to be able to have a sneak peek into the artist's studio.

In the Studio

Upcycled Creative is currently getting set to open a brand new studio shop in Belper. This will give a chance to all the sympathetic or simply curious people visit the studio, meet Lee himself, explore and buy the products or perhaps have something custom made with your own valued items.

Upcycled 1940s WW2 frowo kerosene lamp. One of my favourites

Lee has a website with some of the modern, unique and scarce products showcased www.upcycledcreative.co.uk or visit www.facebook.com/upcycledcreative.

Kind regards,

Renata

- Handcrafted by Eva Kuno