Craig Peebles is a tile maker based in Edinburgh and Creative Director of Welby and Wright. His practice specialises in handmade encaustic tiles that combine traditional techniques with contemporary design and modern technology. Each piece is inlaid with colour and pattern within the tile body itself, ensuring designs remain vibrant for centuries. With more than 30 years of experience in tile restoration and conservation, Craig is dedicated to sustaining vital skills and contributing to the preservation of Britain’s architectural heritage.
Through his QEST Scholarship, Craig is advancing his expertise with hands-on training at The Firing Line in Stoke-on-Trent, exploring experimental dust-pressed encaustic floor tiles under the guidance of Richard and Steve Wilshaw. He will also carry out one-to-one training with Mark Cumberlidge, Head of Technical at Valentine Clays to explore clay formulation, materials behaviour, and processes relevant to encaustic tile production.
Craig’s ambition is to push the boundaries of encaustic tile making, redefining it as a contemporary art form rather than a purely architectural material. He hopes to inspire new generations of makers to rediscover this critically endangered craft and ensure its future within both heritage and modern design contexts.
