A Sustainable Umbrella
In July 2023, Frances Costelloe, a London based illustrator celebrated for her freeline drawings of faces and flora, embarked on a creative partnership with BLUNT Umbrellas. The collaboration resonated deeply, with Frances's half Kiwi heritage aligning naturally with BLUNT's legacy of championing New Zealand talent.
BLUNT Umbrellas, founded by New Zealander Greig Brebner, has built its reputation on creating products designed to last a lifetime rather than ending up in landfill. Their innovative radial tensioning system and modular, repairable design represent a conscious rejection of disposable culture. As a certified B Corporation, BLUNT's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself, encompassing eco-friendly materials, optimised supply chains, and reduced carbon footprint throughout their operations.
For Frances, the partnership offered an opportunity to bring her distinctive botanical illustrations to a functional, everyday object that embodies longevity and environmental responsibility. The result was the limited edition BLUNT Metro canopy, transformed through Frances's hand into a serene artwork. The design, featuring cornflower blue paisley motifs rendered with soft brushstrokes and playful drawings, evokes a sense of freedom and vibrant calm. "It has converted me from a raincoat girl to an umbrella in a bag kind of person," Frances remarked, capturing her own delight in the functional beauty of the finished piece.
Her creative process was equally thoughtful and exploratory. Frances visited the V&A Museum, the world's largest institution dedicated to art, fashion and design, in search of inspiration. With sketchpad and camera in hand, she perused its archives of fabric, ceramics and glassware, settling on a paisley pattern that reminded her of a psychedelic dress she once loved. After many sketches, she honed her vision into a reinterpretation of that motif, ultimately selecting a striking blue reminiscent of her cherished cornflower, a hue meant to uplift even the greyest rainy day.
The collaboration speaks to a broader philosophy both Frances and BLUNT share: that beautiful, well-crafted objects can and should be built to endure. In a world of fast fashion and disposable goods, this umbrella stands as a quiet rebellion, proving that art, function, and sustainability can exist in perfect harmony.
BLUNT's founder describes their mission simply: if you make great products designed with engineering excellence, timeless qualities, and ongoing repairability, the product should be with you for a lifetime. Frances's contribution adds an aesthetic layer that celebrates the natural world while maintaining the brand's commitment to durability and function.