MEET THE FOUNDERS
MATTHEW J, MAWFORD
Founder & Creative DirectorMatt’s journey into scenic production is rooted in a lifelong passion for art, design, and visual storytelling. With a strong background in fine art and experience in stop-motion animation, he developed a deep understanding of scale, composition, and materiality — skills that now inform every project at Mawford Arts. His animation experience taught him how meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving can bring imaginative worlds to life, a philosophy he applies to all theatrical and immersive projects.
As Co-Founder, Matt specialises in guiding the artistic direction of each production. He works closely with designers and art departments from initial concept through to final application, developing material samples, scenic textures, and finishes that translate the creative vision into reality. His focus is on maintaining the integrity of the design while ensuring it reads beautifully on stage, in installations, or across immersive experiences.
Matt is known for his collaborative approach, keen eye for detail, and ability to translate creative ideas into practical artistic solutions. He thrives on the iterative process — testing materials, refining finishes, and ensuring every scenic element supports the storytelling and aesthetic goals of the project.
Through his leadership in the art department, Matt has been instrumental in building Mawford Arts’ reputation as a studio that prioritises creativity, originality, and meticulous artistic quality. His work spans theatre, experiential events, bespoke installations, and animation-inspired projects, consistently delivering immersive and visually compelling experiences that reflect the designer’s intent.
Founder & Creative Director HARRY M, MAWFORD
Harry is a focused, approachable, and results-driven creative whose expertise lies in turning ambitious scenic visions into reality. Specialising in carpentry and scenic art, he brings a rare combination of technical skill, practical problem-solving, and creative insight to every project.
As Co-Founder of Mawford Arts, Harry oversees the construction, fabrication, and installation of complex scenic environments. From structural planning and material selection to joinery, fabrication, and finishing, he ensures each element is built to the highest standards of durability, safety, and visual impact. His deep understanding of construction processes allows him to navigate technical challenges efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the creative vision.
Harry’s approach is highly collaborative. He works closely with designers, clients, and production teams to interpret creative concepts into practical, buildable solutions. His clear communication and hands-on leadership ensure that even the most intricate designs are executed precisely and efficiently, with attention to detail at every stage.
Known for his calm decision-making under pressure and his commitment to excellence, Harry thrives on complex projects where technical innovation and creative problem-solving are required. His expertise has been instrumental in establishing Mawford Arts as a trusted partner for theatre productions, immersive installations, and experiential events across the UK.
Harry’s work bridges the gap between imagination and execution, ensuring that every project is not only visually striking but also structurally sound and delivered to the highest professional standard.
JACK R, MAWFORD
Videography & Social Media CreativeJack is the creative eye behind every project at Mawford Arts. As the company’s dedicated videographer, he documents each build, installation, and production, capturing the artistry, scale, and detail that define the studio’s work.
With a keen sense of storytelling and a strong visual eye, Jack ensures that every moment — from initial concept to final installation — is preserved in compelling imagery. Beyond documenting projects, he specialises in creating engaging Instagram reels, helping Mawford Arts showcase their work to wider audiences and grow their social presence.
Jack is also developing his own brand, Mawford Reels, aimed at helping other businesses elevate their profile and impact on social media. By combining his videography expertise with strategic content creation, he helps brands tell their story visually and connect with their audience more effectively.
Known for his attention to detail and understanding of each project’s narrative, Jack plays an integral role in both preserving the artistry of Mawford Arts’ work and sharing it in ways that inspire and engage.
OUR STORY
Mawford Arts was born from the shared vision of brothers Matt and Harry Mawford, who combine creative imagination and technical expertise to bring ambitious scenic projects to life.
Harry’s journey began with a foundation in Art and Design at Weston College, which led him to the theatre world through a Theatre Production course at Bath Spa University. Excelling in his studies, he secured a placement at Bay Productions, where he learned the technical intricacies of scenic construction and fabrication. In 2019, Harry also built a close connection with Theatre Royal Bath, assisting with Theatre Royal Bath Productions Ltd — working in the Main House and Ustinov Theatre — and learning the fundamentals of the Stage Department. These experiences, alongside freelance work with scenic artists, honed his carpentry skills, stagecraft knowledge, and problem-solving ability for live performance environments.
Harry’s recent credits include Lead Production Carpenter for Endgame at the Ustinov Theatre in 2025, previous collaboration on Into the Woods from workshop scenic art at Cardiff Theatrical Services to on-site paint calls at Theatre Royal Bath, and work on Elf The Musical at the Dominion Theatre in 2023 and Aldwych Theatre, London in 2025. These projects reflect his hands-on expertise and deep understanding of theatre production processes.
Matt’s path also began at Weston College, followed by work in the Art Department at Aardman Animation Studios on the film Pirates. This experience sharpened his eye for detail, scale, and texture. Beyond animation, Matt established himself as an independent artist, with works collected privately across the UK and internationally, further refining his creative voice and artistic talent.
In 2019, both brothers worked freelance with major companies such as Bay Productions and Cardiff Theatrical Services, gaining industry insight, expanding their professional network, and learning the importance of combining creative vision with practical execution. Inspired by these experiences, they decided to take the leap and start their own studio.
In 2017 They began building their first workshop from the ground up in their parents’ garden, creating a small, hands-on space to develop and execute projects. From these humble beginnings, their dedication, ingenuity, and collaborative approach quickly propelled the business forward. As demand grew, Mawford Arts expanded into a 2,500 sq ft workshop in the heart of Wells, Somerset, creating a fully equipped hub for large-scale scenic production.
The studio became a creative ecosystem, collaborating with local businesses and specialist freelancers — from fabrication and engineering experts to carpenters, puppeteers, electricians, and scenic artisans. By bringing together diverse talents, Matt and Harry ensure every project is executed with precision, artistry, and innovation, supporting the broader creative arts sector while delivering immersive, bespoke experiences.
Recent works include:
Your Lie in April — Harold Pinter Theatre, London
Mamma Mia and The Party! — O2 Arena and Rotterdam
Pace Live Entertainment Ltd’s “A Taste of Ireland” — International Tour
Dracula, 2026 - Noel Coward Theatre London.
Elf The Musical — Dominion Theatre 2023 and Aldwych Theatre, London 2025
The Grand Appeal in Partnership with Aardman Animation Studios - Wallace Sculpture, Gromit Unleashed 3
Ongoing partnership with Cardiff Theatrical Services for on-site scenic services for large-scale productions
These projects showcase Mawford Arts’ ability to deliver ambitious, high-quality scenic solutions across theatre, live events, and international touring productions.
Today, Mawford Arts reflects the brothers’ journey: a space where artistic vision meets technical mastery, every project is crafted with care, and imagination, collaboration, and craftsmanship converge to create ambitious, unusual, and unforgettable scenic experiences for theatre, film, and immersive events across the UK and beyond.