Collaboration: Some Cunning stuffing.

One of our passions is finding local crafters to work with, particularly when they're involved in something a little unusual or leftfield. Our newest collaboration is quite frankly better than anything either of us could have dreamed of.

Before Christmas, we had a stall at Goth Mart in Ash, and we're lucky enough to be positioned opposite the phenomenal Surrey Stuffer. We absolutely LOVE taxidermy (in particular the underrated Internet genre of Crap Taxidermy) so we were absolutely delighted and reaching for our wallets immediately. Helena's work is far from crap, mind you. It's exquisite, and her respect and love for the wildlife she works with is obvious with every piece.

The beautiful Helena of The Surrey Stuffer

Baz got chatting to Helena (the eponymous Stuffer) and together their creative brains exploded with ideas. I lurked in the background with Helena's husband Chris, being supportive, nodding when required and handing out cards. It's clear that we both know our place!

Baz and Helena have spoken several times since and they are working on a project that will (might) revolutionise UK Taxidermy!

Being an engineer, rocket scientist and all-round legend, Baz has been working with Helena to create accessories to aid the taxidermy process. They have experimented with printed Owl stuffing, articulated ball joints for wing positioning, and Baz is scheduled to scan some eyeballs soon, so that's nice.

Jay by The Surrey Stuffer

What struck me is how sensitively they're treating the craft as they're developing ideas. Taxidermy has existed for millenia, so the last thing it needs is some t*t with a printer waltzing in and stripping the skill and soul from it. Helena and Baz are working to create solutions that enhance the pieces and enable the artist to effectively manipulate the subjects into firm poses, without detracting from the tradition of the art form.

Helena has also commissioned several of our anatomically accurate human skulls to integrate into her work. I have artfully jammed one under the stunning Jays that she kindly gifted us to give you an idea of what to expect. She's been an absolute dream to work with so far, and has generouslywelcomed us into her home for tours of her workshop, which was fascinating. We have also fallen in love with her dog Bramble, and if she goes missing we definitely haven't stolen her.

Pair of Jays by The Surrey Stuffer with skull by Cunning Artificer.

Photos: The Surrey Stuffer/Cunning Artificer

Skull: Cunning Artificer

Jays: The Surrey Stuffer