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Celebrating Craftsmanship and Creativity: Graham Beck x Michael Chandler

Discover the inspiring collaboration between Graham Beck and Michael Chandler, celebrating craftsmanship, mentorship, and creativity

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By Olivia Vergunst  | January 14, 2025 | Art

In a truly inspiring fusion of artistry, mentorship, and South Africa's rich cultural heritage, Graham Beck is proud to announce a remarkable collaboration with Michael Chandler, the founder and creative behind Chandler House. This unique partnership not only celebrates the craftsmanship of its creators but also highlights a shared commitment to nurturing emerging talent through mentorship and collaborative innovation.

Chandler House has long been a beloved destination for art lovers, standing as a beacon of local creativity. The gallery and shop is renowned for its carefully curated collection of works by South Africa's finest artists and makers, all of whom celebrate the diverse beauty of the country's cultural legacy. Chandler has consistently championed emerging talent through his work, offering a platform for new voices in the creative community.

Image: Supplied

Building on this foundation, the collaboration with Graham Beck brings Chandler’s vision to life in a unique and impactful way. The partnership extends beyond his established network to include two up-and-coming design talents: Elise Wessels of Blackfan Studio and Glorinah Khutso, the founder of Renaissance Design. Both artists bring their distinct flair to the project, further enriching this celebration of South African artistry.

The House of Graham Beck Celebration Platter

At the heart of the collaboration is the "House of Graham Beck" celebration platter. Designed by Michael Chandler, this exquisite blue-and-white porcelain piece serves as both a functional object and an evocative work of art. Drawing inspiration from the antique blue-and-white Dutch ceramics, the platter showcases Chandler’s unparalleled skill, as well as his deep connection to the Graham Beck estate in Robertson.

At the heart of the collaboration is the "House of Graham Beck" celebration platter, Image: Supplied

Hand-painted with care, the platter depicts the lush rolling vineyards of the estate, a fitting tribute to the heritage and artistry of Graham Beck wines. Just as each bottle of Graham Beck reflects meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to quality, Chandler’s platter embodies a similar ethos - one that values patience, passion, and attention to detail. It is a celebration of time, tradition, and the artistry that goes into creating meaningful moments.

Botanically-Inspired Design Meets Creative Collaboration

Elise Wessels, the creative mind behind Blackfan Studio, is known for her love of nature and intricate botanical designs. Her work, produced in small batches locally, is a reflection of her deep passion for illustrative detail and enchanting storytelling. In this collaboration, Elise joins forces with Michael Chandler to craft a series of slab-rolled vases inspired by ancient Greek wine storage vessels.

Using slip casting and age-old sgraffito techniques, Elise’s delicate botanical patterns blend seamlessly with Chandler’s expertly crafted surfaces. This fusion of artistic practices highlights the power of mentorship and creative collaboration. The results are a set of intricate pieces that showcase the beauty of nature.

Honouring Africa’s Cultural Legacy

Glorinah Khutso Mabaso, founder of Renaissance Design, is another visionary whose work celebrates the richness of African culture. Known for her bespoke pattern and product designs, Glorinah’s work has earned accolades such as winning the Nando's Clout Designers' competition. In her collaboration with Michael Chandler, she brings a distinctive approach to the table, working on a series of hand-painted porcelain tiles.

Glorinah Khutso Mabaso brings a distinctive approach to the table, working on a series of hand-painted porcelain tiles, Image: Supplied

Glorinah’s patterns draw from ancestral African decorations, incorporating earthy tones and symbolic motifs that reflect the passing of knowledge between generations. These designs not only honour the artistry of the past but also emphasize the importance of mentorship and the transmission of skills to future generations. This collaboration represents a bridge between the old and new, connecting the wisdom of the past with the creativity of the future.

The partnership is a reminder of the profound impact that craftsmanship and creativity can have on our lives, Image: Supplied

The partnership between Graham Beck and Michael Chandler is a reminder of the profound impact that craftsmanship and creativity can have on our lives. As we celebrate the beauty of art, design, and the moments that shape us, this collaboration stands as a testament to the enduring power of mentorship, patience, and passion.