Obsidian Design was founded by local Artist and Graphic Designer Nicola Makepeace BA.

She creates needle-felted animals full of charm and character. Her sculptures are a unique mashing of creatures and humans. Each creation has its own wonderful personality and are known as Stranglings.

She has had work exhibited in the Lowry Gallery (Manchester) and in the Japanese embassy (London).  She has also had an international project displayed in the Hida Takayama Gallery (Japan).

As well as creating needle-felt art, she works as a graphic designer with clients including Durham Cathedral, Mercedes Benz, The Wildlife Trust, NHS and many more, designing anything from business cards to exhibition material.