About the Artist
I now work from my home studio in Marlow Buckinghamshire where I continue to develop new collections and one of a kind pieces. I also welcome enquiries for personal commissions. If you would like to find out more about my work or would like to discuss a commission, please get in touch.
“I have always believed that the most interesting things happen when different creative worlds come together.”
For over two decades, creativity design and craftsmanship have been at the heart of my career. I began my journey in fashion with designs worn by celebrities and royalty and alongside my fashion, I created a collection of scarves inspired by ancient Persian history that subsequently sold at the British Museum, an experience that reflected my enduring passion for textiles, pattern, colour and storytelling through design, deepening my interest in combining historical imagery with contemporary design.
Having developed my creative practice, I studied textile design and built an extensive portfolio of digital artwork.
Two years ago, I discovered the art of decoupage and completed a master course with some of the world’s leading practitioners in the field. What began as a new creative exploration soon developed into something much more personal. I began holding workshops in my local community sharing the techniques I had discovered while continuing to experiment with different materials, surfaces and decorative processes.
My work has since developed into a distinctive combination of decoupage Japanese decorative papers and gold leaf, creating richly layered pieces on glass. I am fascinated by the way light, colour texture and pattern interact and I enjoy bringing traditional techniques into a contemporary setting. My latest collection brings together so many of the influences and experiences from my past - from fashion and textile to digital design, pattern and craftsmanship - allowing me to create work that feels both deeply personal and uniquely my own.
The Creative Process
Japanese Papers, Imagery & Gold Leaf
Each piece begins with the careful selection of Japanese decorative papers, gold leaf and, in some cases imagery. I cut and arrange many of the elements by hand, pairing each piece with papers chosen specifically to complement its colours, tones and overall composition.
The backgrounds are built through carefully considered layers of paper, individually arranged onto high-quality, durable glassware until the entire surface has been transformed. Every decision is made by hand, allowing the design to evo
Layers, Detail & Protection
A particularly important part of my process is creating an interplay between the design on the outside and inside of the glass. I enjoy creating compositions that reveal something new from different angles, allowing the viewer to discover unexpected details as they move around the piece.
Once the composition is complete, multiple layers of hard-wearing lacquer are carefully applied to protect the artwork. Each layer requires a lengthy drying period before the next can be added. This process ensures that the delicate paper and decorative elements receive the maximum protection, allowing each piece to be enjoyed and used in the home for many years to come.
Laleh's Past Work
Amongst my most distinctive projects was my silk scarf and kaftan collection for the British Museum. History and visual language of ancient Persia.
In my designs I pay homage to the Persian collection at the museum, in particular that of the Oxus Treasure, and to Mrs Delany’s cut coloured from paper and botanically accurate flowers.
Each scarf tells a story rooted in a majestic civilisation with a love and respect for other nations.
These earlier collections continue to influence my work today. My approach to colour, composition, pattern, cultural imagery and craftsmanship has evolved from fashion into my current practice.
