Staying true to their word to employ the best of local talent when available, luxury goods firm Inkerman has released a new range with the help of an up-and-coming illustrator from Mayfield.
Sam Brickell was chosen to produce Inkerman’s new Froghole Collection after learning that the company, which moved to the edge of Tunbridge Wells two years ago, was seeking local craftsmen.
The brief for the new line of mugs was farm animals, an area of expertise for the 21-year-old who has grown up living on a dairy farm.
So impressed were founders Kiki Grigson and Louise Eadie by the illustrations Mr Brickell submitted in October, they decided the range could not wait for their new year launch as planned.
Mr Brickell said: “I heard about the company through my sister who told me they were looking for someone to illustrate their new line of mugs and ideally they wanted someone local.
“I took over a few drawings in October and it just ran from there. Kiki saw them and decided they would make excellent presents and so pushed for a Christmas launch.”
University of Reading graduate Mr Brickell hopes the venture will result in co-operation with the company.
He said: “It is really exciting to see my drawings on the new range. I am very proud of it.”
Co-founder Mrs Grigson said: “Sam is a talented illustrator who has created the striking Froghole Collection exclusively for Inkerman from his home in Mayfield.
“He has been inspired by the animals and wildlife on the farm, along with the odd visitor, and cleverly captures each animal’s characteristics and behaviour in his illustrations.”
