LUMEN DESIGNS & CRAFTS

Sheryl Hall-Andersen is a British artist, cultural anthropologist, and author whose work explores folklore, nature, and cultural traditions through art and storytelling. She is the founder of Lumen Designs & Crafts, an independent creative business established in 2014 and based in East Sussex near Hastings beach.

What began with a humble basket of hand-poured candles soon grew into a diverse creative practice producing handmade artwork, greeting cards, candles, headdresses, clothing, stationery, and home décor. Each design reflects Sheryl’s anthropological background and her deep interest in ritual, symbolism, and cultural expression.

In 2015, after being diagnosed with Type 1 Narcolepsy with Cataplexy, Sheryl made the life-changing decision to become her own boss. Through determination and creativity, she continued to grow her business while navigating the challenges of independent trade and the global lockdowns that reshaped many small businesses. During this time she also embraced sustainability within her practice, dramatically reducing plastic use and shifting toward more environmentally responsible materials.

Born in Britain in the early 1980s and raised in a Roman Catholic household, Sheryl’s creative work is influenced by her Guyanese, Anglo-Indian, and Norwegian heritage as well as her academic background in Cultural Anthropology. These influences can be seen throughout her designs, where mythology, nature, and cultural symbolism intertwine.

Alongside her creative work, Sheryl remains deeply committed to community. She continues to offer free workshops and events, ensuring that creativity remains accessible to everyone.

Whether through a handcrafted candle, a piece of illustrated art, or a story about woodland creatures, Sheryl’s work celebrates imagination, culture, and the quiet magic found in everyday life.