Reinventing Tradition

Tradition is often thought of as something fixed, a set of practices, materials, or techniques passed down unchanged over time. But in the hands of today’s artists and makers, tradition becomes something far more dynamic. It is revisited, reworked, and reimagined.

Across disciplines, these creators are finding ways to honor the integrity of time-tested methods while adapting them to reflect contemporary lifestyles, values, and perspectives. Whether through craftsmanship, technology, or process, each artist is building upon what came before to create something distinctly their own.

Discover how these artists reinterpret tradition through their work, blending heritage with innovation. You can find these artists and many more at the One of a Kind Spring Show, April 24 – 26.

Gavin Midlam and Casey Rutledge, founders of Leon Footwear, are bringing a fresh perspective to traditional shoemaking. With roots in Michigan and an appreciation for exceptional, traditional leatherwork their brand blends heritage craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities.

Why was it important for you to build your brand around traditional craftsmanship?

Gavin & Casey: We started Leon with a simple belief — that the things you live in every day should be made with care, intention, and respect for the craft. In a world of fast, disposable products, we wanted to slow things down and focus on making fewer things, better.

How do traditional shoemaking techniques shape your designs today?

Gavin & Casey: Traditional shoemaking is at the core of everything we do. We focus on time-tested construction methods, quality materials like full-grain leather, and thoughtful detailing that prioritizes both durability and comfort. These techniques have existed for generations because they work, our role is to build on that foundation and create something that feels relevant for today.

How are you reimagining classic footwear?

Gavin & Casey: We take traditional silhouettes and reinterpret them through material, construction, and detail. Whether it’s incorporating hand-sewn elements or weaving techniques like huarache into familiar styles, we’re creating something that feels both timeless and new.

Meet Jessica Stephens, founder of Meliora Forever, is rethinking the ritual of cocktail-making. By transforming classic drinks into portable, easy-to-use cubes, she preserves the essence of traditional recipes while adapting them for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.

How did Meliora Forever begin?

Jessica: After stepping away from my career as an environmental scientist to focus on my family, I found myself wanting to return to work — but the pandemic changed everything. During that time, I started experimenting at home, and one Old Fashioned led to another. That’s really where the idea took shape.

How do you maintain the integrity of traditional cocktails in your products?

Jessica: We strongly believe that a cocktail isn’t complete without bitters — they’re the foundation. Every cube is built around that idea. We spend a lot of time researching and developing flavors to make sure each one still delivers the balance and depth you’d expect from a classic cocktail.

What excites you most about reinventing this experience?

Jessica: I love that we’re making something traditionally very hands-on more accessible. You can enjoy a well-crafted cocktail anywhere — whether you’re traveling, camping, or just at home — without sacrificing quality.

Ashlee Barclay, founder and principal designer of Admiral Landings Designs, approaches lighting with the belief that it is the finishing touch — the jewelry of the home. Rooted in a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and legacy, her work transforms traditional lampshade-making into something both timeless and distinctly personal.

Tell us about your work and what led you to it.

Ashlee: I founded Admiral Landings Designs from a passion for craftsmanship and a belief that lighting has the power to complete a space. My background is actually in education, but I’ve always been drawn to design. That started in my teenage years while helping decorate my parents’ home, and later continued as I created thoughtful, inspiring classroom environments for my students. As I began building my family’s custom home, that passion deepened and ultimately led me to handcrafted lampshades.

How does tradition influence your design approach?

Ashlee: Tradition plays a central role in everything I create. I’m inspired by timeless design, English interiors, and classic techniques, particularly pleated fabric work. Rather than simply replicating those elements, I reinterpret them — creating pieces that feel refined and familiar, but still fresh and relevant for modern homes.

What makes your work a reinvention of traditional lighting?

Ashlee: What began as a search for distinctive, pleated lampshades evolved into a studio focused on elevating lighting into heirloom-quality pieces. Every shade is made to order, with an emphasis on slow design and intentional craftsmanship. For me, it’s about honoring traditional methods while creating something that feels personal, lasting, and thoughtfully integrated into everyday life.

For over three decades, milliner Karyn Ruiz of Lilliput Hats has been preserving and evolving the art of traditional hat-making. Working from her Toronto atelier, she and her team create handcrafted pieces that draw from historical techniques while embracing contemporary style.

Tell us about your process.

Karyn: Each hat is handcrafted using traditional blocking and sewing techniques. We work with both antique and modern hat blocks, which allows us to create a wide range of shapes while maintaining the integrity of classic millinery.

How does tradition influence your designs?

Karyn: My work is deeply rooted in the past, in the materials, techniques, and forms that have defined hat-making for generations. At the same time, I’m always thinking about how those elements can feel current and wearable.

What keeps this craft evolving?

Karyn: I think it’s about balance. There’s a deep respect for tradition, but also a willingness to adapt and experiment. That’s what keeps the work feeling fresh while still honoring its origins.