I recently had the pleasure of returning to Cornwall for an assignment with Travel + Leisure — my first time back since I was 13.

The story, written by Rosecrans Baldwin, explores a quiet but powerful creative resurgence happening along the Cornish coast. Over five four, I travelled from Penzance to St. Ives and beyond, photographing the people, spaces, and landscapes shaping this narrative, a community of artists, craftspeople, and designers all deeply connected to place.

One of the first stops was The Roundhouse Coffee in Penzance — a tiny, circular café tucked into an old tollhouse. It set the tone for the trip: unassuming, characterful, and full of heart. From there, I visited Porthmeor Studios in St. Ives, where I photographed painter Philip Medley’s work and the unexpected sight of shellfish traps stored below, a nod to the building’s dual heritage of art and fishing.

A highlight was documenting Roelof Uys, lead potter at the historic Leach Pottery, whose calm focus and connection to the studio’s legacy made a strong impression. I also spent time with Tom Kay, founder of the cold-water surf brand Finisterre, and Andrew Todd, the brand’s head designer, in his light-filled studio in St. Agnes — both thoughtful, passionate people whose work is rooted in sustainability and the sea.

In between, I captured quiet details: a plate of tagliatelle and a minimalist guest room at Harbour View House, cafés along the St. Ives harbourfront, the beach at low tide, and finally, St. Michael’s Mount, rising out of the water near Penzance like something from a dream.

What stood out most wasn’t just the beauty of Cornwall (though it’s undeniable), but the feeling that creativity there isn’t performative — it’s lived, built into the rhythm of the day, shaped by weather, tide, and community.

I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of telling this story — thank you to the Travel + Leisure team for the commission.

View the full article here:

https://www.travelandleisure.com/cornwall-england-stives-makers-11725063

If you’re interested in editorial commissions or story-led photography, feel free to get in touch.