Fine Cell Work, is a charity and social enterprise which makes beautiful handmade products in British prisons, many in collaboration with the country’s leading contemporary designers. de Le Cuona is proud to support Fine Cell Work, providing its beautiful linen to be made into high-quality cushions and accessories. Hand-embroidered by people in prison, and machine stitched in Fine Cell Work’s workshops, this purposeful, paid activity supports stitchers to rebuild their lives, and to build a non- criminal identity.

‘Over the years de Le Cuona has donated thousands of metres of wonderful, natural fabric to Fine Cell Work, which has been used as the basis for an entire range of products from aprons to tea towels, tote bags and has been used as the backing for countless cushions. This generous donation of fabric has allowed us to provide work for our in- prison stitchers. Teaching high-quality needlework skills to people in prison boosts their self-worth, instils self-discipline, fosters hope and encourages them to lead independent, crime-free lives.' – Jordanne Cliffe, Workshops Manager

Last year, Fine Cell Work worked in 32 British prisons in England & Wales, engaging with over 600 people – the largest workforce of hand-stitchers in Europe. Prisoners spend an average of 24 hours a week crafting exquisitely stitched cushions, quilts, a range of contemporary bags and giftware in their cells.

Stitchers are taught by experienced volunteers and staff to work in their cells and in prison workshops. Having the opportunity to work independently helps them to regain control of their lives, maintaining dignity, developing hard and soft work skills, building relationships and mental resilience.

Through the sale of their work, Fine Cell Work provides stitchers with a sense of connection to the world outside prison, allowing them to send money to their families or save for their release.

de Le Cuona joins other supporters, including esteemed artists and designers such as Kit Kemp, Pentreath & Hall, Cornelia Parker, William Yeoward and Melissa Wyndham.

Fine Cell Work Patrons include actor Dame Judi Dench, authors Tracy Chevalier and Esther Freud, and designers Kaffe Fassett and Cath Kidston.

de Le Cuona celebrates art, interiors and sustainability with the Artists' Retreat Installation.

de Le Cuona has made linen tote bags from offcuts to support the idea of Zero Waste, which further supports sustainability by protecting the environment.

The artwork, accessories and bags created for the installation will be available to purchase.

All proceeds will be donated to the Marine Conservation Society,

Paris: 18 - 22 January 2018
London: 25 - 1 February 2018

The Artists’ Retreat installation was a great success at Paris Deco Off, with generous support from all our visitors. Thank you to everyone who purchased a painting, cushion and linen bag as 100% of the proceeds will go to the Marine Conservation Society. This installation now moves to London with a final opportunity to view and purchase pieces at our Chelsea Harbour showroom where the Artists’ Retreat installation is on display from the 25th January - 1st of February.

Share your experience with the world:  #DELECUONA   #ARTISTSRETREAT