artists
every piece has a story, and every story begins with an artist
NEW ZEALAND · CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY & LEATHER ARTISTS
Sophia and Lynley
Sophia and Lynley are the artists behind Two Puppies Leather Studio, a contemporary creative practice shaped by love, memory, cultural heritage and a deep connection to the natural world. Combining traditional Chinese leather-carving techniques with modern design, they transform locally sourced New Zealand leather into jewellery and meaningful objects that carry both story and a sense of place.
about
The story of Two Puppies Leather Studio begins with love, loss and the enduring bond between people and their animals.
In 2018, Sophia experienced the heartbreaking loss of her beloved chow chow, Feifei. More than a pet, Feifei had been a constant companion and an important presence in her life.
While processing her grief, Sophia began imagining an object that could preserve something of that connection—a lasting and deeply personal tribute to the animals who become part of our families and stories.
She was joined by Lynley, whose artistic background and eye for detail helped bring their shared vision to life.
Growing up in China, Lynley was immersed in art from an early age. Her grandfather was a renowned painter whose work is permanently displayed in the China Art Museum. His influence helped shape her appreciation for craftsmanship, close observation and the emotional possibilities held within a handmade object.
Together, Sophia and Lynley began creating bespoke leather accessories from photographs supplied by their customers. Cardholders, keyrings and other personal objects are carefully handcrafted to capture the individual character and spirit of a much-loved pet.
Each piece becomes more than an accessory. It offers a tangible way to honour a companion, preserve a memory and keep an important connection close.
Central to their practice is the traditional Chinese technique of leather carving, known as pi diao (皮雕). This intricate craft carries generations of knowledge, with different regions of China developing their own distinctive histories, methods and visual traditions.
Sophia and Lynley bring this ancient technique into a contemporary setting. Each design is carefully carved and shaped by hand, preserving the character of traditional craftsmanship while creating pieces suited to modern life.
They work with high-quality, locally sourced New Zealand leather, selected for its natural beauty, durability and ability to hold fine carved detail. The material gives each piece warmth and individuality while allowing it to be both artful and functional.
A second creative direction emerged through Sophia and Lynley’s shared study of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University.
Their training encouraged them to observe the relationships between people, place and the natural environment. The distinctive landscapes and biodiversity of Aotearoa became an ongoing source of inspiration, leading to a collection of handcrafted contemporary jewellery.
Their designs draw from the shapes, colours and textures of native flora and wildlife—from the plumage of tūī, huia and pīwakawaka to the distinctive forms of kōwhai and kawakawa.
Rather than simply reproducing nature, Sophia and Lynley distil its movement, colour and character into contemporary wearable art.
Through carving, sculpting and colouring, leather is transformed into lightweight, tactile forms that move naturally with the wearer. Fine details and subtle variations reveal the artists’ hands, ensuring every piece carries its own character.
Across both sides of their practice, Sophia and Lynley create objects grounded in connection and storytelling. One collection honours the relationship between people and their pets; the other celebrates the natural character of the place they now call home.
Their work reflects a desire to encourage care—for the animals that share our lives, for the cultural knowledge carried through traditional craft and for the natural environment that continues to inspire them.
Through Two Puppies Leather Studio, personal stories, ancient techniques and the beauty of Aotearoa are brought together in objects designed to be worn, held and carried forward.
Because the most meaningful objects do more than accompany us—they carry the stories, places and connections we treasure.
Two Puppies Leather Studio
Deep brown leather and warm copper-toned markings bring an earthy character to this sculpted feather cuff.
In Kiwi Ember — The Heart of Aotearoa, Sophia and Lynley shape leather into a feather that curves around the wrist. Fine grooves trace outwards from a raised central line, with warm highlights revealing the detail against the dark surface.
Inspired by the kiwi and its connection to the land, the cuff reflects the studio’s appreciation for Aotearoa’s native wildlife. Its rich tones and tactile finish translate that inspiration into a distinctive piece of wearable art.
Wear it on its own or alongside other favourite jewellery. Complimentary engraving inside allows you to add a name, meaningful date or short dedication.
Earthy · Sculptural · Textural
Handcrafted leather · Approximately 3 cm wide · Small 17 cm / Large 19 cm · Free optional engraving inside · Handmade in New Zealand