About
The Amber Tree, nestled in the quaint town of Eye, Suffolk, is not just your typical shop; it's a vibrant community hub that showcases a delightful array of beautiful things. From the moment you step through its inviting doors, you'll be captivated by the carefully curated selection of handmade wooden kitchenware, exquisite furniture, and breathtaking award-winning photography. Each item tells a unique story, crafted with passion and skill by local artisans who pour their heart and soul into every creation.
Whether you're in search of a unique centerpiece for your home or a one-of-a-kind gift, The Amber Tree is the perfect place to browse and discover treasures that will add a touch of elegance and warmth to your surroundings. Step inside and immerse yourself in the artistic wonderland that awaits, where every visit feels like a delightful journey of inspiration and creativity.
Justin James –
The Amber Tree
Justin James was born in South London in 1970 and has been based in Aspall, Suffolk since 2013. His interest in creating art and sculpture began in his teens and were pursued at Chelsea Art College in the 1990s. His early years were spent developing multi-disciplinary skills as he looked to find his niche, and wood soon became central to his work.
Justin takes inspiration for his designs from the hidden gems he finds in rural and urban landscapes, seeing shapes and possibilities in both the poetic and prosaic.
Justin’s passion for the lifecycle of a tree sees him work through each stage, from felling and curing to the final product. His bespoke furniture designs are sourced sustainably from his trees in Aspall at the end of their lifespan.
Paul Cooklin –
Photographer
Paul Cooklin is a fine art photographer, using analogue film and traditional darkroom printing in his practice.
A digital artist early in his early career, he initially created abstract and conceptual images incorporating digital photos into multiple layers. His practice has developed to favour analogue film, preferring the timeless tonal qualities and grain often associated with the medium.
Drawn to the rules of negative and traditional printing methods, Cooklin prefers the more rewarding and hands-on approach needed to make an individual gelatin silver print. He has a diverse body of work consisting of an eclectic collection of prints, covering various photographic genres. His works have been featured in numerous publications including TIME Magazine and Italian Vogue, used in TV and he has participated in a number of global exhibitions. His works are represented by Saatchi Art.
Portfolio: https://paulcooklin.com
Saatchi: https://www.saatchiart.com/pcooklin
Dom Tabley –
Earthwood Designs
Dom Tabley has over 26 years’ experience working as an Arborist in his business Earthwood Tree. He is skilled in the art of tree climbing using ropes, harnesses, and other specialized equipment to safely access and work in the tree canopy. Look up and you will find Dom climbing trees in various locations around Suffolk.
With his extensive knowledge of this industry Dom is highly familiar and passionate about the large variety of wood he encounters.
Since 2019, he has transformed his skills to woodwork based in his Debenham workshop. Dom utilises species such as Oak, Chestnut, Maple, and Walnut, which he encounters in his daily work and artfully transforms into beautiful pieces of home décor.
Jenny Moss –
Sandgrown Ceramics
Jenny Moss is from Blackpool, Fylde Coast, Lancashire but has lived in Suffolk for over 20 years. People originating from the Fylde Coast are called Sandgrownians or Sandgrown'uns which is the inspiration behind the name!
Jenny’s passion for pottery has been a constant for over 20 years, starting at college in Blackpool where she received an award for Excellence in the Visual Arts and the A C Okell prize for Art. Jenny’s pottery was put on hold while she diversified her talents by completing a degree in Zoology, living and working overseas, and raising a family.
Jenny has reignited her passion for pottery, using the natural environment as inspiration for her hand-built pieces, with a selection on display and the opportunity to request bespoke pieces.
Jo McLaughlin –
Wylde With Woodcraft
Jo is 60 years old and is a well-known local to Eye, living with her Boxer dog. Many years ago, whilst assisting a tree surgeon Jo was dismayed to see beautiful pieces of wood being scrapped for the fire.
This started Jo on a mission to transform the fantastical shapes into mirrors; each one unique with its own individual story.
The trees are sourced responsibly, and the wood is seasoned outside and inside for two years before being reincarnated as her beautiful mirrors.