An equestrian leather crafter from Hertfordshire has beaten off competition from as far away as Australia to be awarded the annual Abbey England scholarship.
Clare Chapman was revealed as the winner of the prestigious prize after impressing the judges with a gold detail bridle with plaited details, a brown headcollar, and a studded steampunk style leather corset and hat.
Inspired by her lifelong love of horses and heritage, Clare creates everything from bridles and belts to beautifully detailed steampunk pieces through her business, Clare Chapman Leatherwork.
Abbey England is a leading international supplier of premium artisan leatherwork and equestrian products and tools.
Clare, who was one of 20 applicants for the scholarship, trained at Capel Manor College in London and the Walsall Leather Skills Centre and aspires to make heavy horse tack.
‘I couldn’t believe it’
“When I received the news that I had been awarded the Abbey England Scholarship, I couldn’t believe it,” said Clare.
“I love what I do, and how much it differs day to day. One week I could be making a hunt bridle, the next week making a top hat, the week after that adding patent leather inlays to a dog collar. Recognising when to stick with tradition and when to embrace modern techniques, it never gets boring!
“I want to show that the scholarship isn’t just about the young, up-and-coming crowd. There are many older people now turning to leathercraft, and I’d like to show that old dogs can learn new tricks, and for anyone interested in taking up the craft to not to be so afraid of starting something new.
“The support of the scholarship will be amazing. I want to continue expanding my product line and exploring techniques. My ambition is to make heavy horse tack and Level 3 Harness isn’t a cheap project, nor should it be, so the bursary would help greatly towards the leather and hardware I need to continue and the travel bursary will go towards continuing my learning at Walsall Leather Skills Centre.”
Financial and practical support
Designed to celebrate and showcase talented makers and crafters, such as saddlers and leatherworkers, at the outset of their careers, the scholarship gives the recipient financial and practical support from the Artisan leatherwork and equestrian supplier, with £500 worth of Abbey England leathers and tools, as well as expert advice and online support for their business.
“This industry thrives on passion, and The Abbey England Scholarship programme has been designed to celebrate the people behind the craft as much as the craft itself. We are always so inspired by the creative entries we receive, and how passionate entrants are in keeping heritage skills and crafting going in new and exciting ways,” said Richard Brown, ceo at Abbey England and one of the judges.
“We wish to congratulate Clare on this well-deserved achievement. Her story reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue your passion – and that craftsmanship, at its heart, is about continual learning and love for the work.”
Clare will also receive an additional £200 to cover the cost of travel expenses and accommodation to attend training courses and workshops to enhance her skills. This includes a place on Abbey England’s next Masterclass workshop.
Images © Abbey England.
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