Laura Derby

Significantly influenced by a rural upbringing, Laura Derby (Rugaura) chose to obtain a BA Honours Degree in Industrial Design (Woven Textiles) at The Scottish College of Textiles through which her creative appreciation for colour, materials and application could develop. Working as an artisan rug maker in New Zealand inspired Laura to create her own designs and another influence has been the life and work of Friedensreich Hundertwasser; painter, architect, ecology activist and philosopher. A parallel detour into health and social care over the past 25 years has further enriched and shaped Laura's artistic identity.
Thanks to WASPS, Craft Scotland and The Inches Carr Foundation significant milestones which have steered and informed Laura include residencies at Marchmont Creative Spaces and The Admiral's House on Skye. Laura exhibits annually through Upland’s Spring Fling Open Studios event and features regularly in group exhibitions in Kirkcudbright. Kirkcudbright National Gallery and Buy Design Gallery in Jedburgh also stock Laura’s work.
Proudly achieving The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere Certification Mark acknowledges the origin and sustainability of Laura’s work, emphasising her use of 100% British Wool and upcycled local materials. This intentional choice underscores Laura’s commitment to environmental responsibility and her creations to a level of ecological integrity. In essence, Laura's artistic journey serves as a testament to her innate connection with nature, commitment to sustainability, and the sincere desire to weave a positive thread into the fabric of life through her distinctive hand-tufted creations.