ABIGAIL LUCY BRUFORD
I studied Art at College then briefly went onto study Costume Design at Bournemouth before making a U turn to get a BA hons in Mixed Media Fine Art. I then got my PGCE & went on to teach within London & quickly became Head of Art.
I started Abilu Creations in 2006 after being drawn to follow my own creative path. I started out with Jewellery & accessories whilst teaching PT & set up stall at Camden Lock Market where I was until 2012. Abilu went on to be sold worldwide in boutiques & major department stores including Selfridges & Debenhams & became my main job. I was featured in numerous magazines including; Elle, Grazia & Style.
I now live just outside Dorking in the Surrey Hill's with my wonderful husband and 2 gorgeous children. It wasn't until moving back to the countryside that I realised how much London had stifled my creativity. Taking time out to reflect after having my Children and being able to rebrand the business to include my artwork in late 2018.
“I am a forager of the seashores, hedgerows & charity shops. A combination of growing up in Devon, a family history of finding bargains at boot fairs, charities & jumble sales seeking treasure in others trash along with many years of teaching with tight budgets & being resourceful with materials has lead me down this sustainable path of which is the rich tapestry that has become Abilu.”
Here you will find all the things that make me happy from foragers finds to Vintage delights with untold stories and a sense of mystery within them. Everything you need to make your home unique and your style individual. My materials come from within the UK & are sustainably sourced. I love to re-work old, broken or unloved items to try and give them a new lease of life.
As well as running my business I currently teach BTEC Art & Design PT and a variety of adult education classes as well as 1-2-1 tuition. Have a look at my Teaching page for more info on classes & tutoring.