Drawn to the elusive and intangible qualities of reflecive surfaces, Elizabeth Kent approaches the mirror not as a static object but as a living material – one that captures light, movement, and the viewer’s gaze. Each mirrors journey begins with traditional water-gilding techniques and the application of thin layers of gold leaves to the glass. The surfaces are then enhanced through contemporary methods such as acid etching, screen printing, and hand drawing. Layering marks both reveal and obscure reflections – and create a dialogue between transparency and opacity.
Natural motifs, fluid forms, and painterly textures are woven throughout her work, inviting viewers to engage with the piece beyond mere reflection – encouraging an active visual exploration where the interplay of layered surfaces reveals new details from different perspectives. Kent’s mirrors inhabit a space between function and poetry, transforming everyday environments into quietly enchanted realms where surface and depth coexist.
© Courtesy of the artist
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I live in Hornsey, in North London. It’s part of a group of villages in the residential parts of North London, beyond the centre. It’s popular with families because of the extensive green spaces such as Alexandra Palace and Highgate woods. My studio is 15 minutes further east in Tottenham, which is home to lots of creative businesses, and industrial areas.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
We are lucky to have large, beautiful woods in North London. They’re great for walking my dog and particularly special in Autumn. I enjoy swimming at our local Lido in Crouch End, it feels holiday-ish, and there are several arthouse cinemas to choose from. They often show short runs of independent films/documentaries, I still prefer to watch a film in the cinema if possible.
© Alexandra Palace, North London – geograph.org.uk – 5208892, CC BY-SA 2.0
Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?
There’s a huge housing crisis in the UK which has been building for decades, and is particularly extreme for Londoners and businesses too. London is unaffordable for most craftspeople, particularly those that need workshop space. Often artists don’t have secure tenancies which makes establishing a business within a community long term very difficult.
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
In Tottenham, the area has developed a lot in terms of new apartments being built and creative start-ups/businesses moving in. A small number of makers workshops have been established and are thriving, allowing craftspeople to access high-tech machinery within London, without having to invest in expensive equipment. This has been great for me, and really allowed me to develop my techniques. The cost of living crisis is very visible here though, people seem worse off in terms of support from public and health services.
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
My studio is filled with an eclectic mix of makers, some of them include: Fazio (Leather products), Josefina Isaza (Ceramics) and Angela Britton (Prints). There are lots of regular farmer’s markets in London which are great for finding local produce – I go to Alexandra Palace Market and Tottenham Green Market regularly.
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
London has vast creative capital, I think artists here learn to be very resourceful and resilient because there’s so much competition. It’s tough, but ultimately it drives up the standard and originality of work being produced.
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
Many of the pubs in North London serve great food, I like St. John’s Tavern in Archway and The Queen’s in Crouch End. Near my studio, there are some great independent cafes including Craving Coffee and Markfield Park Cafe. I also really like Morito in Exmouth Market and Hackney Road.
© Tanya Arya/ St John’s Tavern
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
Libertys in central London has a revolving curation of small British brands as well as big names. It’s a great place to explore, and discover new designers. Stoke Newington High Street has lots of independent food, clothing/homeware shops, I like Everyday Sunshine which sells prints, artworks and good coffee too.
© Everyday Sunshine
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
In relation to my work, I like to read Crafts Magazine, Hole & Corner and Wanderlust magazine. Online we subscribe to FT for news and I use ArtRabbit for art and exhibitions. I also visit the National Art Library at the V&A for research.
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
I use Instagram, Google Maps and various puzzle game apps while on public transport in London.
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
Being mayor of London is a tough job, I think our current mayor has tried to protect free school meals, and implement the development of creative quarters in London, both of which I support. I would like to see increased financial support for organisations helping the elderly, and the re-instigation of local youth clubs. Ultimately encouraging people in cities to support eachother.
© Diliff, Tower Bridge London Dusk Feb 2006, CC BY-SA 3.0
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?
In this position, I would probably choose to live in several places over the course of the year, perhaps avoiding the British weather in winter! Having always lived in the cities, I’d love to spend an extended amount of time making my work in a completely different kind of natural landscape. Recently, I have been working on some mirror pieces inspired by the Volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote. There’s a very unique atmosphere and quality to the landscape, I’d love to spend more time there.
© Christina Thaisen
