Un-hide: Redefining leather, luxury, sustainability
Leather manufacturers Bridge of Weir and Muirhead, part of the Scottish Leather Group and known for high-performance leather in aviation and commercial upholstery, have announced their joint sponsorship of the installation "Un-hide: Reframing Luxury" at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in South Kensington during the London Design Festival 2024.
The installation, designed by Kusheda Mensah of Modular by Mensah, explores leather's role in contemporary design, with a focus on sustainability. "Un-hide: Reframing Luxury" examines the parallels between human skin and leather, emphasizing the material’s natural characteristics and lifecycle. It challenges traditional views of luxury by showcasing leather as an ecological and sustainable material.
The installation highlights the unique qualities of each leather hide, reflecting its origins and the journey from raw material to finished product. By doing so, it encourages visitors to reconsider their understanding of luxury, focusing on authenticity and craftsmanship.
Debra Choong, Design Manager at Scottish Leather Group, commented that leather's natural features are central to its sustainability and durability. She emphasised that responsibly sourced leather can redefine luxury by aligning it with environmental responsibility and long-lasting craftsmanship.
The installation runs from September 14 to October 13, 2024, in the V&A’s Medieval and Renaissance Galleries, with free entry.
