Hayward Gallery Heart Brooch by Maison 203

Last updated: 9 April 2026

What is the Hayward Gallery heart brooch?

This bold red brooch is sold through the Southbank Centre Shop alongside the current Chiharu Shiota: Threads of Life and Yin Xiuzhen: Heart to Heart exhibitions. Designed and produced by Maison 203, an Italian studio specialising in 3D-printed jewellery, the brooch is made from PLA filament, a biodegradable plastic derived from corn starch. It is lightweight, vivid, and eye-catching, with a texture and form that nod to the themes of connection running through both exhibitions.

The heart shape ties directly to Yin Xiuzhen's centrepiece installation A Heart to Heart, while the deep red colour mirrors Chiharu Shiota's signature crimson thread. As a result, it works both as a standalone accessory and as a meaningful keepsake from a gallery visit. For our full thoughts on both shows, read our Chiharu Shiota and Yin Xiuzhen Hayward Gallery review.

Key details

Designer: Maison 203
Material: PLA filament (biodegradable, derived from corn starch)
Made in: Italy
Small: Approx. 25 x 30 mm — £15
Large: Approx. 51 x 57 mm — £20
Available from: Southbank Centre Shop (in-store and online)

Why we like it

Gallery shop gifts can feel throwaway, but this one has substance. The PLA material is genuinely biodegradable, so it sits well with anyone who cares about sustainability. On top of that, the 3D printing gives the brooch an intricate, lattice-like quality that photographs well and feels contemporary. At £15 for the small size, it also makes a thoughtful, affordable gift for someone who loves art or design, without the commitment of a £3,250 limited edition print.

The large version at £20 makes more of a statement on a coat lapel or bag strap. Both sizes are lightweight enough for everyday wear.

Who is Maison 203?

Maison 203 is an Italian design studio that creates jewellery and accessories using 3D printing technology. Based in Italy, the studio collaborates with international designers and cultural institutions to produce pieces that sit between fashion and art. Their use of PLA, a plant-based thermoplastic, keeps the production process lower-impact than traditional manufacturing. The studio has previously created pieces for museum shops and design retailers across Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy the Hayward Gallery heart brooch online?

Yes. The brooch is available through the Southbank Centre Shop online and in-store at the Hayward Gallery.

Is PLA filament eco-friendly?

PLA is derived from renewable resources like corn starch and is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions. It is considered a more sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, though it does not break down easily in a standard home compost bin.

Which size should I choose?

The small brooch (25 x 30 mm) is subtle and works well as an everyday pin. The large version (51 x 57 mm) is more of a feature piece, ideal for jacket lapels or tote bags. If in doubt, the large size tends to have more visual impact.

More from CoolCuration

• Chiharu Shiota Edition: Connected to the Universe — The limited edition Ukiyo-e woodcut print from the same exhibition, for serious collectors.
• Hope Pin by Giles Deacon — Another wearable art pin that supports a good cause.
• Gift Guide for Artists and Creatives — More curated picks for art lovers.
• Hockney Ashtray — A playful art-inspired homeware gift from another iconic British gallery.
• Chip App — Start saving towards your next gallery haul or collectors' piece.

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