Maker in Focus - Celestino Valenti

Celestino Valenti became fascinated by period decorative wirework having bought an original hanging basket from an antiques shop. In the early 90s, he started working in three dimensions, exploring the diversity and design potential of interior and garden pieces as well as hanging and table designs. He wanted to push boundaries with large scale chandeliers and lighting. Celestino has undertaken architectural commissions and his work has appeared in national and international magazines including Crafts Magazine, World of Interiors, House and Gardens, and Country Living.

"I attended Croydon College of Art from the age of 15 and studied Printmaking at the Royal College of Art.

I have shown my six foot drop chandelier at the Chelsea Flower Show through Marston and Langinger. I have shown at Country Living, Hampton Court Flower Show and Collect at Saatchi Gallery. I have been commissioned to make window display pieces for Bergdorf Goodman’s Fifth Avenue store. I enjoy the challenge of creating new work for specific spaces and environments.

I was an illustrator for Nova magazine in the ‘70s and my work is featured in Nova 1965 – 75, published by Batsford 2019 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nova-Style-Bible-60s-70s/dp/1849944784).

I have a studio in Hallidays Mill, Chalford where I am open most days, except Wednesdays but also by appointment.

Most of the work I do is functional as well as decorative. Having come from a Fine Art background I find it refreshing to work in theme and variation. Paul Klee said “Drawing is taking a line for a walk” and that thought has taken me forward in my work.

I spend my time otherwise on my allotment and I run weekly Life Drawing classes on a Wednesday in South Cerney.

I am an associate member of the Guild.