LOUISE AYLING - BESPOKE SHOEMAKER

As a shoemaker I value the opportunity to practice my craft of making sustainable high quality footwear recognising that shoemaking is a gentle craft that takes many years to master and always provides the artisan craftsperson with new challenges.

Footwear made in the English Bespoke tradition uses high quality leathers sourced from New Zealand and around the globe and celebrates and keeps alive traditional and highly valued hand skills and sustainable shoemaking practices.

I was born in Aotearoa New Zealand, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Canterbury.  My passion for creative outlets led me to a career in shoemaking. From 1999 to 2009, I trained and worked as a shoemaker at a bespoke shoemaking company in London as well as studying shoemaking at both a theoretical and practical level at Cordwainers College in London.

After returning to live in New Zealand, I continued to make made to measure footwear as well as furthering my skills in footwear repair work and specialised upper alterations.  Living in New Zealand also leads me to explore the relationship between the European sensibility of footwear in which I am trained and the impact of New Zealand cultural visual influences and how I can incorporate these in my work.

If someone asks me why I love bespoke shoemaking, I answer: It is not just making footwear, it is a creative and disciplined way of working that builds on and combines my artistic dream and technical abilities; produces a sustainable, durable work of art primarily using high quality renewable materials; uses skills I have developed over a long period of time as well as the opportunity to learn new ways of doing things; enjoyment from knowing that I am part of a community of skilled craftspeople whose skills are in danger of disappearing if not taught, nurtured and practiced.

I welcome opportunities to work with clients to develop ideas about how to fulfil their footwear visions and dreams. These may include being the proud owner of a bespoke pair of footwear or a specialist custom alteration of a favourite pair of boots or shoes to obtain a more perfect and comfortable fit.

Louise