Frolicking monkeys, magnificent elephants and majestic cheetahs come to exuberant life in this proudly South African decor and lifestyle store.
Step through the door of Ardmore’s new Newlands store, and you enter a world of fantasy, colour, whimsy, realism and artful brilliance: a cocktail of sculptural ceramics depicting African wildlife in a riot of colour, pattern and decorative design.
The much-loved South African brand, founded by ceramic artist Fée Halsted, has become a name known to art collectors worldwide. Ardmore even merits a dedicated auction at Christie’s, defined as “a modern-day collectible” in the prestigious London auction house’s catalogue. So much decorative artistry demands a broader canvas, and today Ardmore also delights its design-savvy customers with a range of textiles, from stunning silk scarves to gorgeous table linens, featuring the lively animal-centric designs created by the more than 70 skilled artists (most of whom hail from the local Zulu community) who add their soaring imaginations and storytelling creativity to the vibrant mix.
It’s a wrap
Following a landmark collaboration with luxury French brand Hermès from 2013 to 2016 (the first time Hermès had worked with a South African designer), Ardmore’s own enchanting silk-scarf collection celebrates life and colour, and is a wonderful way to enfold yourself in this inspiring alternative reality. Designed by Fée’s daughter, Catherine Berning, and illustrated by Sydney Nyabeze, the beautiful new Sabie Kings design features two magnificent king cheetahs with tails entwined, as the big cats play together among indigenous aloes and impala lilies.
Table talk
A procession of African animals parades among palm trees in the exuberant table-linen collection, Palm Parade. Artists Leko, Abel, Catherine and Sydney have depicted elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, monkeys, parakeets and cardinal woodpeckers in delightful detail, including a froth of proteas, aloes and ilala palm fronds. They’ve chosen a feather border that symbolises peace, and a palette of royal red and chartreuse green.
Monkey business
The lively animal clay sculptures that define the Ardmore brand come to mischievous life in the new Monkey Palm candleholders. Sculpted by Pomotso Mafura and painted in the soft, harmonious and delicate style of veteran artist Mickey Chonco, these decorative and functional pieces feature a vervet monkey high in a palm tree, holding binoculars to survey future adventures with positive anticipation.
No wonder these glorious pieces that so joyously embody the spirit of Africa find their way to homes and collectors all over the world.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm
Saturday, 8am – 12pm
Contact details 082 358 8045, newlands@ardmore-design.com
Address 35 Kildare Road, Newlands, Cape Town
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