Michael Rust, FCLAS, CertEd:

Michael has a life long interest in art, lettering and design. After a career which involved the Civil Service, RAF and organic agriculture for over twenty years, in 1985 he returned to his first love - art. He started carving sculptures in wood and, although not formally trained in carving, quickly established a reputation for fine artistic work. As a left hander he had found calligraphy a bit daunting in his younger days but found carving letters was a joy and a significant proportion of the Studio commissions now involve fine lettering in wood, stone and occasionally engraved glass.

He studied lettering at The Reigate School of Art & Design and has been awarded the Fellowship of The Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society. He is a full elected Member of Letter Exchange, the prestigious society for professional lettering artists. In 2004 he was appointed lettering consultant to the Canterbury Diocesan Advisory Committee.

He is also a professional member of The British Woodcarvers Association.

In addition he is a qualified teacher having gained the Post Compulsory Certificate in Education at The University College of Christ Church, Canterbury. He teaches occasional short courses, particularly in lettering, calligraphy and design.

Deidre Rust:

Deidre brings her extensive business and executive charity experience to guide the work of the Studio on efficient lines and is in charge of administration. She is the Studio's finest and most valued critic and is a skilled member of the team in handling the flow of work in the Studio and on site. As a hands on worker she is frequently involved in installation and finishing work of lettering and sculptures.

Outside of her Studio responsibilities Deidre is busy with family commitments, gardening and looking after her hens. She is a trustee of two Charities, The Laurence Society of Holistic Medcine and The Pelegrin Trust, and is also an active volnteer for the East Kent Hospices Trust.