Job Description

Senior Decorative Artist with Polished Plaster Specialism

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary from 36,000

Expected hours: 40 per week

Company Overview - Mathew Bray & Matthew Collins Ltd - MBMC Studios

Mathew Bray & Matthew Collins Ltd is a specialist decorative arts company founded in 2016 by Mathew Bray and Matthew Collins, following the establishment of Mathew Bray Decorative Arts and Furniture Ltd in 2004. We are based in both London and Somerset, and renowned for our bespoke, high-end finishes and interior design solutions.

We specialise in creating and applying unique paint, plaster, and lacquer finishes to walls, ceilings, woodwork, furniture, and decorative objects. Our extensive services include the production of wallpapers (including hand-painted Chinoiserie and cracked gesso wallcoverings), gilding, stencilling, polished plaster, cabinet making, decorative mirrors, and full timber interiors.

Much of our work is commissioned by top-tier interior designers and private clients around the world.

We are particularly known for our ability to replicate antique finishes and techniques using modern materials, often developing custom paints and plasters in-house.

With a diverse team of fine artists, cabinet makers, and decorators, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. Our ethos centres on reviving and evolving historical decorative techniques to meet contemporary needs while maintaining the highest standards of artistry and quality.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior Decorative Artist with Polished Plaster Specialism to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in all decorative applications to a high standard and applying Marmorino, Spatulato Plaster, Stencilled Polished Plaster, Metallic Polished Plaster, Smooth Polished Plaster, Stucco to our exceptional standards. This role requires expertise in surface preparation, application techniques, and finishing, with a keen eye for detail and craftsmanship.

SENIOR DECORATIVE ARTIST

To apply for the position of senior decorative artist you should have experience working in the industry and of working on site locations. You would be familiar with each of the following

Basic preparatory decoration Oil and Acrylic Glaze finishes Wall-covering printing or manufacture Polished and burnished plaster finishes Painted faux finishes Timber finishes/French polishing Mirror and glass finishes/gilding
You will need to be capable of mixing exact colours to specification in any paint media, a critical skill that underpins all studio and site practice.

Experience in handling a range of media, oil and acrylic, scumble-glazes, gesso and casein bound pigments, gouache and watercolour, tempera, encaustic, distemper colour washing & limewash is a vital requirement, along with a strong understanding of their properties and uses.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2 years' experience in handling hand-painted papers, textured paper, fabric and digital prints, ensuring flawless installations for high-end luxury interiors.

Key Responsibilities for Polished Plaster

Prepare surfaces, including cleaning, priming, and applying appropriate base coats Apply polished plaster finishes using traditional and modern techniques Match and replicate custom finishes according to project specifications Work on high-end residential, commercial, and heritage restoration projects Ensure the highest standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail Collaborate with designers, architects, and project managers to achieve the desired aesthetic Maintain tools and equipment, ensuring proper care and storage Adhere to health and safety regulations on-site and in the workshop

Skills & Experience Required

Minimum 2 years of experience in polished plaster application Proficiency in various polished plaster techniques, including burnishing and waxing Ability to create and replicate custom textures and finishes Strong understanding of materials, including lime-based and synthetic plasters Excellent attention to detail and ability to work to precise specifications Experience working on high-end projects with a focus on luxury interiors Ability to work independently and as part of a team Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to different site conditions A valid driving licence

Desirable Skills

Experience in colour-matching and pigment mixing Knowledge of other decorative finishes such as gilding, patination, or lacquer work Familiarity with modern application tools and techniques Computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Outlook, Word & Excel are required A working knowledge of any of the following software is desirable; Adobe Photoshop: Illustrator; AUTOCAD or Vector Works Health & Safety CITB Certification Working at Height PASMA Certification Emergency First Aid at Work certification

What We Offer

Competitive rates, based on experience Opportunity to work on prestigious projects across London, Somerset, and beyond A collaborative and creative work environment Career development opportunities and training in specialist finishes
Much of our work will be based in London, but we also operate on sites around the UK and Internationally.

References & Basic DBS Check will be required.

If you have the skills and passion for polished plaster and decorative finishes, we'd love to hear from you!

Visit our website www.mbmcstudios.com to find out all about us.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, cover letter, and references to our General Manager, Mary Wyatt - mary.wyatt@mbmcstudios.com - with the subject line "Senior Decorative Artist with Polished Plaster Specialism - [Your Name]".

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From 36,000.00 per year

Experience:

relevant: 2 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (preferred)
Location:

London (preferred)
Willingness to travel:

75% (preferred)
Work Location: On the road