KATHRYN M HOLFORD
We are sad to report that Kathryn passed away peacefully on the 4th March 2023, having been admitted to the Arthur Rank Hospice some weeks prior. She faced her prognosis with typical acceptance, grace and courage. She was an exceptional glass artist, with a fierce attention to detail, who also did much for the survival of lead crystal production in England. She was such fun to be with—just thinking about her makes one smile!
Kathryn is passionate about creating beautiful objects in crystal and glass and sustaining the craftsmanship that enables the production of unique handmade pieces.
Graduating from the Royal College of Art in 1992 her award-winning design, craft and sculpture has led her to work internationally with many of the most talented studio glassmakers and artisan manufacturers of both crystal and glass. Kathryn’s awards include Rosenthal Young Designer of the Year, The Laurent Perrier Design Award and The Walpole Awards for Excellence in British Luxury Craftsmanship.
Her contemporary and elegant designs include projects for Wedgwood, Stuart Crystal, Royal Brierley Crystal, Atlantis Crystal, Perrier Jouet Champagne, Tamdhu 50, Crabtree and Evelyn, Diageo, Czech and Speake and many others. Her bespoke pieces and sculptures grace the rooms of The Savoy, Claridges and Malmaison Hotels, several Royal Palaces and many other exclusive residences and collections.
In recent years she was also renowned as the MD and Creative Director of Cumbria Crystal, which she took from decline to becoming the foremost luxury crystal brand in the UK. Whilst undertaking this challenge she designed and developed bespoke products for William and Son, John Walker and Son, Linley, Harrods, Asprey and many other luxury brands.
Her elegant and luminous glass sculpture is shown internationally and is a potent and personal exploration of the metaphysical and physical world in which we live.
At present she is resident in France creating new collections for Cameron Peters and focusing on an exciting new series of sculptures.