Chris Sturgess-Leif
1937-2011

It was with great sadness that I heard of the death of Chris Strugess-Leif on the eve of the KDF Christmas Show this year.  I had got to know Chris many years ago when he started supplying the London Dolls House Co, (my shop in Covent Garden). 

It was probably around 1998 when I met Chris at one of the dolls house shows I attended, hunting for new talent and although, unknown to me, Chris had been making miniatures for many years, it was the first time I spotted his charming work.

His miniatures were an instant hit in the shop.  The toys he made were evocative of childhoods from a past era, and although they looked naive in style, he put a lot of research & work into all the items he made (this is shown in the short film you can watch by clicking on the rocking horse in the right-hand column)

Chris has been an exhibitor at Kensington since I took over the Festival in 2005 (before as well I think) and when Darlene & I were discussing who we should feature in our documentary we made to celebrate 25 years of the Festival, Chris was an obvious choice.  His charm & passion for his work made him a perfect specimen.

Chris will be missed by all who work & visit the KDF, and if you are lucky enough to own one or more of his exquisite pieces, hold onto them tight, as you won't find anyone else making wooden miniatures with quite Chris' style.

Charlotte Stokoe - KDF Organiser

Masterclass videos

Chris Sturgess-Leif

KDF talks to miniaturist, Chris Sturgess-Leif. Click below to watch a short film.

Masterclass 5 - Roberson Miniatures

KDF talks to miniaturist, Roberson. Click below to watch a short film.

Chris in his workshop

Toy box & contents