Visitors at Ffrench's Studio Iron during the london design festival, viewing innovative, avant-garde works by artists.

London Design Festival Unveils Avant-Garde Works by Global Artists at Ffrench’s Studio Iron

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Written by John Oliver

2026-09-17

Ffrench‘s Unique Creative Hub at Saatchi Yates

Famed makeup artist and creative powerhouse, Isamaya Ffrench, unveils her second exhibition at Studio Iron during the London Design Festival. This vibrant gallery spotlights 27 innovative designers, including talents like Andu Masebo and Barnaby Lewis.

Isamaya Ffrench stands beside diverse art installations at her second Studio Iron show.
Isamaya Ffrench has opened her second Studio Iron show

An Exploration of Materials and Creativity during the Celebrated Event

Embedded in the Perfectly Imperfect programme by Alex Tieghi-Walker, the exhibition challenges conventional notions of materiality. “Witnessing these creations up close is extraordinary,” Ffrench told Dezeen, emphasizing the tactile and immersive experience missing from digital or retail displays.

Explore how Dutch designers are revolutionizing tile installation for more insights into innovative design techniques.

Colorful armchairs by Andu Masebo and Thomas Cardiff on display at the festival.
Armchairs by Andu Masebo and Thomas Cardiff feature in the show

Innovative Designs and Unique Artistry

Highlights include Jesse Butterfield‘s hammered steel pouf with a linen cushion by Jane Wright, and Thomas Cardiff‘s angular armchair featuring tattooed leather and cowhide. Nearby, Marten Herma Anderson‘s resin lamp and Atelier Fomenta‘s rubber-encased bulb captivates with their striking forms.

Art pieces feature contrasting materials, showcasing diversity in texture and form.
Various contrasting materials make up the pieces

Visceral and Poetic Displays

A minimalistic yet intriguing installation by Andu Masebo and Barnaby Lewis‘s skeletal chair, along with a chainmail-adorned lamp by Wretched Flowers, exemplify the dynamic creativity Ffrench fosters. “His practice is both visceral and poetic,” she noted of Lewis.

Art installations are part of the Perfectly Imperfect exhibition in west London.
They form part of the Perfectly Imperfect exhibition in west London

Fostering Emerging Talent

Ffrench envisions expanding Studio Iron into a pioneering agency supporting budding designers in London’s open and versatile creative landscape. “It’s essential to nurture and spotlight these emerging talents,” she remarked, underscoring the city’s embrace of new artistic expressions.

Various-sized furniture and objects displayed on a minimalist gallery floor.
Different-sized furniture and objects make up the selection

This contemporary showcase, captured by Andy Stagg, runs from 12 to 20 September. It plays a vibrant role within the UK capital, presenting a kaleidoscope of creativity alongside other events such as the innovative furniture platform Lobby. Ffrench’s daring vision fosters a vital platform for new voices at the annual festival.

For more boundary-pushing art, discover 3D-printed sculptures made from café waste in London.

Unique lamps crafted from rubber and resin showcased in the exhibition.
Rubber and resin were used to create some of the show’s lamps

Source: dezeen.com

Frequently asked questions

What is featured at the London Design Festival’s Studio Iron?

The London Design Festival at Studio Iron showcases innovative works by 27 designers, including talents like Andu Masebo and Barnaby Lewis. It is part of the Perfectly Imperfect programme, challenging conventional ideas of materiality.

Who is hosting the exhibition at Studio Iron?

The exhibition at Studio Iron is hosted by Isamaya Ffrench, a famed makeup artist and creative powerhouse. It is her second exhibition at the venue during the London Design Festival.

What are some highlights of the exhibition at Studio Iron?

Highlights of the exhibition include Jesse Butterfield’s hammered steel pouf with a linen cushion by Jane Wright and Thomas Cardiff’s angular armchair with tattooed leather and cowhide. Additionally, Marten Herma Anderson’s resin lamp and Atelier Fomenta’s rubber-encased bulb are featured.