In a quiet corner of South Somerset, Robert Ellis and James Coplestone began a conversation that has lasted more than three decades. They shared a love of classic children’s books, a habit of sketching from life, and a belief that characters on the page could belong in real landscapes. Today, their literary bronze water features and sculptures are handmade in the South West and collected around the world.
How it all began
The ideas that shaped the workshop
The partnership grew out of theatre work and teaching, then settled into a studio practice on the Dorset–Somerset border. Robert and James studied original illustrations, built wire armatures as drawings in space, and modelled characters in clay. The lost-wax process followed – wax, ceramic shell, and molten-wax pours – until each figure returned to bronze with the weight and presence needed for the garden.
“The challenge is to breathe life into these magical characters.”
James Coplestone
Craft and purpose
Keeping faith with the books and original illustrations
Every sculpture begins with research and drawing, then moves through mould-making, casting, chasing and patination. Edges are polished to catch the light, surfaces are sealed and waxed, and bases are prepared for secure siting. The aim is simple – a character that reads from every angle, carries feeling at garden scale, and endures through seasons.
Chelsea and beyond
A small stand, a chessboard floor and an audience from everywhere
The first appearance at RHS Chelsea Flower Show came in 2011 with help from Clipper Tea. Tea chests formed the display and curious conversations began. A year later, the “Chelsea Hat” stand arrived – a tent with a chequered floor and asymmetrical chests with an unmistakable essence of Wonderland.
The show’s reach changed everything. People flew in from across the world, photographs multiplied, and the stand became a regular stop for visitors to Chelsea. Over time, the display grew from seven pieces to more than sixty, and the workshop’s immersive, show-stopping installations earned Five Gold Stars on four occasions. Planning starts almost as soon as the crates come home, with new characters joining the cast each year.
Meet the people
The makers, the studio dog and the voices behind the scenes
Sculptors Robert Ellis and James Coplestone lead the creative work. Director Karen Watkins brings horticultural knowledge and client care to each placement. Junior manager Louis Coplestone supports the studio and exhibition design.
Limited editions, collected worldwide
Provenance, delivery and support
Hot cast editions ship with certificates of authenticity, and every piece is packed and crated with care. The workshop advises on plinths and stands, delivery and installation, and maintenance. International shipping is arranged regularly with trusted partners.
Visit and enquire
See the work in person or request details
You can book an appointment to visit the Robert James Workshop Gallery for a coffee, a studio tour and time with the sculptures. If you’d like to speak to makers or request a brochure, use the buttons below.
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