Rory Dobner

A favourite in the Liberty Gift Room, Rory Dobner’s intricate illustrations are a must-have for any stylish home. With a repertoire including sculpture, print and home furnishings, his English-made artworks have garnered a global following. With the Love collection a roaring success, we chatted to Rory about his Valentine’s Days past and present.

Best Valentine’s Day?
Sitting on the beach as the sun came up after a fun night out with our feet in the sand.

Worst Valentine’s Day?
It was at an antiques market where I came across the most amazing chandelier which I wanted to buy for my wife so I was extremely pleased that I had: a) remembered Valentine’s Day and b) actually come across something she would like. I was happy all the way on the bus to meet her at her favourite restaurant up to the point where I greeted her, and mid-cuddle realised I had left the aforementioned chandelier cosily on its own seat on the bus…

Best Valentine’s gift to receive?
Anything! If you get a Valentine’s gift think yourself very lucky!

Best Valentine’s gift you’ve given?
A personalised Intricate Ink Tile I wrote a VERY special secret message on. It’s now publicly on display on [my wife’s] office wall.

Dream Valentine’s date location?
Underwater – preferably scuba diving in Mexico.

Favourite piece you’ve worked on?
Having the opportunity to hand paint (in the boiling hot sun under a holey umbrella) my cat monocle on a 20 foot wall at a hotel abroad.

Favourite character in your alphabet?
E for Extinct. I love my little dodo. I think we would have been pals if he was still around to hang out with on Valentine’s Day.

Top 3 inspirations?
My childrens’ imaginations, the Natural History Museum and any and every antiques market.

Why made in England?
I was made here so it made sense. I love England!