At Artisanal & Co, we pay homage to tradition whilst celebrating innovative design.

Hi, I’m Leah Burke, a Maker and Founder behind Artisanal & Co.

I’m lucky to be living off grid, nestled in eucalypt forest just outside of Cygnet, lutruwita/Tasmania. It’s an area celebrated for its eco-friendly, diverse community and thriving creative arts. In my case, diversity runs to having two Fur Forepersons - Pearl the Pig and Drynie the Dog. You’ll see them ‘directing creativity’ along our journey.

Handcrafted items are lovingly created here with time and care. These curated works are for the discerning buyer who appreciates quality craftsmanship over mass production.

Textile art is my focus - handwoven, crocheted and sewn. I do turn my hand to other creative genres such as woodwork and crafts using a multitude of mediums, particularly when creating art installations and store merchandising props.

I am a Member of The Spindle Tree (a Tasmanian Fibre Arts Co-operative) at the Salamanca Arts Centre, and of the Hand Dyers, Spinners and Weavers Guild.

In addition to my own creations, I promote, style and sell the works of other Artisans.

Ken Smith, Textile Artist (1943 - 2024)

Ken Smith was born in Far North Queensland and spent many years in England before returning to Australia.  

He had his own fashion label and retail store in Cairns before relocating to Brisbane and then finally to Nicholls Rivulet in the Huon Valley, lutruwita/Tasmania.

A student of English doyenne of Embroiderers, Constance Howard M.B.E., Ken participated in touring textile and wearable art exhibits abroad and within Australia. 

His skill at freestyle machine embroidery (or FreeMotion Embroidery) saw him touring for sewing machine company, Bernina Australia, teaching master classes.

The focus of the works currently exhibited is on hand painted silk and freestyle machine embroidery on silk.