Amelie Lankester

The Secrets of Hollow Oak is a theatrical collection of knitted headpieces inspired by classic murder mystery games and films. Through textured, three-dimensional knits, it brings to life a cast of eccentric characters, drawing viewers into a whimsical world where every character hides a secret. 

Four letters came at the break of dawn, 

From a house long dead, by ivy worn. 

A butcher, a gardener, a widow, a seer 

And a taxidermist with motives unclear. 

They gathered where the oak tree split, 

Where secrets stirred and candles lit. 

A game began with tokens deep, 

Each turn unmasked what did not sleep 

Old misdeeds and buried truth, 

Bloodied hands and shattered proof. 

One was lost; a cleaver remained, 

The others haunted, quiet, strained. 

The prize unknown, the silence stark, 

As Hollow Oak grew cold and dark. 

So if you find that twisted crest 

Burn the note, and hope for rest. 

This project is based on my own murder mystery story. The characters are a mix of personal and imagined influences, many inspired by people and places in Somerset. The Gardener is based on my mother and her work on a large country estate. The Widower draws from my grandmother, alongside my father’s love for astronomy and somersets stary skies. The Butcher references a neighbour’s pig farming traditions and their renowned bacon. Finally, the Taxidermist, inspired by vintage taxidermy in old country houses and antique stores, as well as based on a mixture of birds of prey spotted in the countryside. I've designed these headpieces in the context of costume, millinery and set design, specifically tailored for theatre.