Project Overview
This large, walnut-framed Memory Box was commissioned to honour the remarkable lives of John and Edna Ferguson. It transforms a collection of sentimental keepsakes into a beautiful narrative of their 70-year journey together.

The Client’s Story
Fiona, a retired editor from East London, reached out to me after the passing of her father. While clearing out her parents' home, she discovered numerous ordinary objects that evoked profound memories of her childhood and their shared life. She wanted to create a custom Memory Box that would encapsulate the milestones, triumphs, and love stories of her parents.

“Pippa has taken these objects and sympathetically created a wonderful memory box that conjures my Mum and Dad's lives together… A little slice of John and Edna lives on in this box, shining out to the generations to come.” – Fiona

Our Creative Journey
Initial Consultation
Fiona and I met locally to explore her treasure trove of keepsakes. We identified the items that held the most significance – ensuring a harmonious mix of styles, sizes, and textures for the Memory Box. Some delicate items were excluded to maintain balance and longevity.

Design Development
After our meeting, I curated several layout options for the artwork, considering the final size to fit Fiona's chosen display space. We collaborated closely, refining the arrangement until we reached a design that resonated with both of us.

Adding Personal Touches
To elevate the composition, I proposed incorporating real wax seals, inspired by Fiona's collection of wax seal matrices. I carefully selected red wax to complement the overall design and sent her colour samples for approval. I also suggested wrapping her parents’ wedding rings in a delicate ribbon, enhancing the box’s sentimental value.

Finalisation
Before finalising the piece, I sent Fiona a snapshot of the arrangement to “live with” for a week. This step ensured her complete satisfaction with the layout before I began the intricate process of securely attaching each item to the fabric backing.

Crafting with Care
The final composition showcased a variety of cherished items – from fragile photographs to her father’s war medals – each meticulously secured using tailored fixing methods to ensure durability and preservation.

The Result
The completed Memory Box is a stunning rectangular tribute to John and Edna, now beautifully framed in walnut, proudly displayed in Fiona's home on the South Coast. This artwork serves not only as a decorative piece but as a heartfelt connection to their legacy, resonating with love and shared history.