Behind-the-scenes with BOBO1325 on the crafting of The Bard.
These beautifully intricate, painted creations are from the skilled hand of Beth Travers, founder of multi-award winning studio, BOBO1325.
When asked to create a unique facade for the entrance to the recent Grand Designs Live show in Birmingham, Beth conjured up a narrative centred on the work of William Shakespeare.
The essence of the design for 'The Bard' revolved around Shakespeare's use of botanicals throughout his literary works, to not only give his words colour, seasonal meaning, but as an exploration of symbolism.
Beth explains: "The body of the design was inspired by the ‘Tempest,’ a crashing of waves, thoughts and emotions. Whilst ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ inspired the colour palette. The wildness of the botanicals found within this design are all taken from Shakespeare’s words.
"Pencil drawings interspersed depict how Shakespeare’s words were black and white before the botanicals brought them to life to give colour and meaning for the reader to unpick.
"Symbolically, the botanicals so often written about follow the main themes of his sonnets and plays which gives his work a deeper meaning, allowing the reader and audience to form a deeper connection: love, tragedy, friendship, betrayal are all emotions we can relate to.
"With Shakespeare's well-documented love of botany, this symbolism begs the question 'was this a beautiful coincidence or pure intention?’"
In addition to the entrance, Beth also supplied artwork for the Champagne Bar. The design was titled ‘Eden’, and evoked a, "Dynamic romanticism - the intimate and warm tonal palette of the scenic wallpaper is designed to become an embrace.
"It’s a colour palette that’s a little different for me, but I think it truly shows the power that colour has within design. It creates the bridge to this 'one perfect moment' we reflect on where everything just seems to stand still and all you do is feel the rush and warmth of love."
You can discover more of Beth's work at Material Source Studio Manchester, where BOBO1325 is a partner. She's currently working live in-situ on a very special project with local connections. Pop in and say hello!
