Annahieta is a self-taught sign writer and reverse glass gilder based in Stockport, greater Manchester. She is passionate about combining water gilding and signwriting with a modern twist.
Her QEST funding will see her to participate in a five-day workshop with master gilder Richard Walker, learning how to apply gold leaf and other metals to glass, creating decorative effects, blending colours, and drawing into gold to make bespoke pieces of art. Annahieta will also embark on a year-long programme with her mentor and sign writer Beccy Roberts, undertaking weekly practice sessions covering letter formation, typography, kerning, marbling, font memorization, 3D lettering, and more.
Her long-term vision is to continue to gain confidence in sign writing projects involving bespoke art pieces, shop fronts, boats and pub signs.
Annahieta is also eager to expand her client base internationally, become a respected figure in the field and nurture the next generation of makers through the creation of her own craft school.