Montcalm Mayfair Hotel Artwork – Large-Scale Plaster Carving Petra Börner
A highlight of this year was collaborating with Swedish illustrator and Marimekko collaborator Petra Börner on a large-scale plaster mural for the Montcalm Mayfair Hotel, London (W1H 7TN). Measuring 250 x 150 cm, it was hand-cast and carved in my studio, a true meeting of illustration and material.
Petra attended my Plaster Masterclass in 2021, where she first explored translating her illustrative line into clay and plaster through carving and mould making. When she later collaborated with an interior stylist on a site-specific project, she reached out for my ceramics consultancy to help realise the technical and structural aspects of a large-scale plaster relief.
Working together, we tackled the practical challenges of a public-facing installation:
Weight restrictions and durability in a high-traffic hotel lobby
A flawless surface finish suited to a luxury interior
Precision framing and installation logistics
We meticulously planned and executed the piece in my London studio. Petra hand-carved her design into the plaster under my guidance; I then refined, polished, and finished the surface to meet client requirements. The final artwork was framed by a specialist company and now greets guests in the Montcalm’s reception, a stunning centrepiece of the space.
“Helen thrives when problem-solving. She bridges traditional techniques with modern pathways — inventive, professional, and generous in sharing her expertise.”
— Petra Börner
Petra’s words “ The commission held new territories for us both and we found it easy to work in tandem, share the space together and achieve - thanks to Helen’s neat and well-considered planning. The project ran well throughout and was completed to the expected timing and deadline - an essential aspect to ensure a projects conception through to completion.
We have had fantastic feedback and responses to the Plaster Mural which can be viewed as the proud welcoming piece in the entrance of the Moncalm Hotel Mayfair.
If you’re interested in commissioning a bespoke plaster or porcelain artwork, or wish to discuss a collaborative project, with medo get in touch → and we can explore the possibilities, whatever the scale.
