Artist - Craig Peebles
Craig Peebles Artist:
From Tile Craftsman to Tile Design Innovator
Born into a family immersed in the tile industry, I eagerly followed in my father's footsteps, starting my apprenticeship at just 13. Working alongside highly skilled Master Craftsmen, I gained hands-on experience that laid the foundation for my future endeavours. In addition to my work in the tile industry, I developed an extensive art portfolio, leading to my graduation from the renowned Edinburgh College of Art with a BA (Hons) in Art and Design. In 2000, I merged my craft and art by joining forces with my father. With a clear ambition to be Scotland's leading authority in tessellated and encaustic tiles, I aimed to breathe new life into historic floors by offering creative designs and authentic installations. Combining modern materials with expert restoration techniques, my goal was to honour the past while embracing the present. However, in 2019, a debilitating back injury forced me to reassess my role in the industry. Despite my unwavering passion for art and conservation, I could no longer bear the physical demands of the work. This pivotal moment gave birth to Welby & Wright Tileworks. Welby & Wright is a cutting-edge tile design consultancy that aims to revolutionise the industry. Through innovative and breathtaking designs, we elevate any interior or exterior space. Our ultimate goal is to transform spaces through the artistry of tiles, providing unmatched expertise and impeccable service.
Mystery, intrigue, and the art of Encaustic Tile manufacture are deeply intertwined. Our ancestors spent years perfecting the revival of Medieval Encaustic Tiles. Now, I aim to leave my mark on that legacy by creating contemporary examples and innovative designs that honour their origins. My journey in clay began in the summer of 2020. Despite COVID restrictions, I set up my studio with determination to manufacture the very tiles I had long held in my hands. Initially self-taught, I further developed my skills in the spring of 2021 through the invaluable mentorship of Chris Donnelly and Fiona Thompson at Cyan Clayworks. In my practice, I strive to incorporate 21st-century techniques, unconventional designs, and a playful, subversive and political voice. This endeavour pushes me to master new and challenging skills, breathing new life into what was once considered an antiquated medium. With each creation, I embark on my own renaissance of these remarkable "Burnt In" masterpieces.
The Future
Bespoke Encaustic Tile Manufacture
Join Craig on his adventure to learn how to manufacture bespoke Encaustic Floor Tiles. Check out the Journal and follow Craig’s progress. Encaustic Tile Making - coming soon!
“Mystery, Intrigue and Encaustic Tile manufacture go hand in hand. Our forebears spent many years perfecting their renaissance of Medieval Encaustic Tiles and I seek to add my own name to that legacy by producing contemporary examples in my inimitable style - my own renaissance of these ‘Burnt In’ masterpieces.”