Meet the Maker: Lu Mason

Who are you, where are you from and what do you make?

I am Lu Mason, I make rag rugs. I also work with cut paper and with laser cut perspex, making jewellery and mobiles. I live in York, but prior to that I lived in London and during my growing up years we travelled around owing to my father’s job.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by mid-20th century art and textile design (e.g. Lucienne Day, e.g. Barbara Hepworth). Also by Victorian and Edwardian posters, and sheet music titles. Also by costumes from around the world. Also by African art, textiles, baskets, colours. I am inspired by music from Africa, Jamaica, and Latin America. Also by album covers from the 1950’s and 60’s. I am inspired by Fair Isle knitting, and by museums large (e.g. V&A) and small (e.g. the Putty Museum in Leeds). I’m inspired by jumble sales and car boot sales. Also by children’s books from the 1950’s and 60’s.

What is your workshop luxury?

My workshop luxury is listening to my music, and to the radio (Radio 4 1Xtra, and 6 music).

Your favourite studio lunch?

Sometimes we all bring things in and picnic together. We are round the corner from the market, so lovely cheese, fresh salad and fruit, and deli stuff are all available.

Best spot in the British Isles?

I’m more of an urban creature than the country, but I love the seaside. And I love cities! So maybe the North East coast, including Newcastle. Or the Borders including Berwick. Favourite city is Edinburgh.

What do you find challenging about being a creative?

It’s challenging to maintain self belief, especially if you measure your talent on the £££ that you make.  

What would you like to learn next?

I’d love to learn more about lino printing. I’d also love to learn more about history – our recent political shambles in this country has made me want to learn more about the hows and whys we have got into this state. I’d also like to learn Tai Chi or really any kind of dance.

How do you let your hair down?

I let my hair down by dancing. Usually at one of York’s reggae do’s.

What are you listening to at the moment?

Right now this minute I am listening to some Afrobeat. The more gentle kind, not aggressive. I’m also listening to Bisa Kdei (from Nigeria). And to Billy Bragg, the Pogues, and Chronixx.

What makes you feel well chuffed?

I feel well chuffed when I sell a rag rug! Also when people say nice things about my Instagram posts. I also feel chuffed when I’ve cooked a nice meal for mates.  

What is your fave recipe?

I’m not the world’s greatest cook, but I love to put together a curry with the spices from York’s own Rafi’s Spice Box.

Who is your biggest inspiration? 

Maybe Lubaina Himid. Maybe my friend Louisa Creed who still makes rag rugs, aged well into her 80’s with very little vision. Maybe the Obamas for bringing hope to the USA.  I’d like to include Vivian Westwood. But also an old friend who made new clothes out of old clothes and sold them in Portobello Road market in the 1970’s.

What is your fave item on The Chuffed Store? 

I love Kitty Pennybacker’s blanket scarves.

Spring, summer, autumn or winter? 

My favourite season is autumn. I was born in October. I love the colours, I even love the nights drawing in and getting out my jumpers and woolly tights.

And, lastly, one question you would like us to ask the next Meet the Maker….? 

How did you get going in making what you make?