Lou Clifton – 'Soft Cell' Handbag', in Purple, 2023

Lou Clifton has recently been exploring bag making as an extension of her shoemaking practice, Drawing inspiration from 80’s and 90’s subcultures. These bags are made from luxurious soft leathers that contrast with the hard spikes and shiny, hand-studded metal hardware. They’re pop, they’re playful, and they hurt.

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Lou Clifton is a leatherworker from Wellington, New Zealand. Specialising in shoemaking, she founded her label and education space, Shoe School in 2015. Recently, Clifton has relocated to Melbourne, Australia to continue her practice as a leatherworker and educator. Clifton’s education focus provides her students with the fundamentals of leatherworking, allowing them to learn how to make Boots, Sandals, Sneakers and Harnesses. Most recently, Clifton has completed an internship in Oklahoma, USA, expanding her skillset to include traditional western-style pieces such as Cowboy Boots.

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Everyone’s heard of a dragon  

Curated by James Lemon and Bobby Corica

11 November  23 – 27 January 24 

Read about the exhibition

Material: leather, metal hardware

Dimensions: approx. 37 x 23 x 12cm