Where did you hone your experience of working with steam-bent wood?
I have spent many years learning how to steam-bend wood in various workshops, however the majority of my experience comes from working on my own, extensive trials and meticulous note keeping. I believe to understand something you have to repeat it over and over again, until you have a feel for the limits of the technique.
What led you to the creation of bespoke light sculptures?
I was drawn like a moth to the light, so to speak. The mix of modern LED lighting and the simple curves made with steam-bent wood, l find to be magical. The three-dimensional aspect of a light sculpture is also extremely enjoyable to create.
What type of wood do you work with?
I try to be as eco responsible as possible. l fell my own trees from my own land and use a local sawmill to process the wood. I only take what l need and plant more trees to replace the ones l have felled. At the moment l have American oak and European ash in my wood store.
How do you go from inspiration to ideas to the final piece?
I start with a simple drawing. However, l am not the world’s best artist. Once l have an idea, l let my mind run with it, l try to overcome as many obstacles as possible in my head. Once l have a general plan, then l start to work with the wood directly.