A Bold Journey: From Berlin Studios to Global Showcases

Jonathan Lawes studied Printed Textiles and Surface Pattern Design at Leeds Arts University, graduating in 2009, after completing a Foundation Diploma at Arts University Bournemouth. He went on to spend nearly a decade living and working in Berlin, where his distinctive geometric aesthetic began to flourish. Since relocating to south-east London in 2018, Jonathon has developed a dynamic practice that bridges fine art and design, creating vibrant, layered silkscreen prints and mixed-media works on wood. Known for his bold compositions and intuitive, hands-on process, he has collaborated with leading brands including The Conran Shop, COS, Joseph Joseph, Gandia Blasco, and Petit‑Pli. His work has been widely exhibited, from solo shows at The Vanner Gallery and The New Gallery in Little Rock to group fairs across London, Hamburg, Brussels, and beyond - each piece reflecting his signature rhythm, depth, and confident use of colour.

Q&A

Where did your career as an artist begin?

I studied Printed Textiles and Surface Pattern Design at Leeds Arts University, graduating in 2009, before embarking on various design placements abroad. Since then I’ve been weaving my way between the art and design world and keeping myself busy.

Can you walk us through your creative process - from the initial idea to the finished piece?

The vast majority of my work starts on the printing table. I have a ‘library’ of shapes that I like to work with, but compositions form naturally during the printing process. Adding layers here and there, masking bits with subtle overlays. It’s then just a matter of time until I’m happy with the finished piece.

Which piece of your own work means the most to you, and why?

I’m not too sentimental with my work and like to keep moving on and developing things further. It’s all part of the learning process which takes time. I’ve recently been working on some much larger mixed media works on wood and these have been great to do, so there will be more to come. 

If you could collaborate with any artist or famous person (living or dead), who would it be and why?

Last year I went to Mallorca on holiday and visited the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró on the outskirts of Palma. I certainly wouldn’t have minded being friends with them and spending a good few weeks each year in the artist studio and grounds. 

Do you plan your compositions in advance, or let the work evolve organically?

There is always a very simple idea in advance, but like I said before, I allow myself to deviate from that path and things to evolve organically. It’s never a rigid formula. It’s about taking your time and most importantly having fun and enjoying the process. 

What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out on their artistic journey?

It’s a tough industry, like lots of others, and you need to be very proactive to make it work. Working for yourself has its benefits, but there is also no one else to fall back on. You have to be very switched on to make the most of every opportunity. 

As an interiors brand, we'd love to know about your own home interiors style?

I like to keep things simple and clean. No excessive clutter. People think that my home is covered in my artwork which isn’t true. I have my studio for that and like to appreciate things by other artists and designers at home. 

Can you share a design hack or tip that you think every homeowner should know?

It’s not a design hack as such, but make sure you’ve got a good toolbox with all the correct gear in it if you’re going about doing an DIY. Bad tools make a mess!

What is your favourite Birdie Fortescue piece?

Probably got to be a good rug. You can really transform a space. I love the colours in the Namda Spring Felted Rug and the geometric feel of the Moroccan Jute Rug. 

Thank you Jonathan!

To find out more about Jonathan and his work, or for regular updates check out his instagram, and don't forget to visit his website!

You can view some of Jonathan's stunning pieces in The Gallery section on our website, if you would like to view a piece please contact our Norfolk HQ for more information.