As a black, self-taught Designer Maker, I deeply desire to be as ethical and conscious as possible, encompassing a deep love for my craft and a genuine appreciation for the natural world. Each piece is handmade using sustainable and ethically sourced materials. This ensures the longevity of all my work and minimises the negative impact on the environment. I meticulously source wood and metals from responsibly managed sources and recycle or up-cycle materials whenever possible, reducing waste and promoting conservation.
A
When making furniture, I carefully design each piece to complement the space it will inhabit but ensure the pieces can work in myriad spaces. My use of richly textured exotic hardwoods and rare earth metals, as well as natural colour pallets, tones and timbers often associated with Africa, the Caribbean and other ‘exotic regions’ act as a homage to the colonial history of the diaspora and its influence on contemporary design in western culture.
By being ethical, conscious, and caring with my crafts, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, help others understand the history of materials we extract from it, value sustainable practices, and embrace the philosophy that each piece I create, could be a testament to our love for the environment and the care we should all take in preserving it.
Image A - Selecting timber
Image B - Inspecting Fresh casting
Image C - OG Don rings on hand
B
I take inspiration from the intricate patterns of the natural world, the delicate textures and graceful curves of life shaped by time. I strive to capture the essence of these organic textures in every piece I make, Furniture or Jewellery, infusing them with a sense of timeless beauty and harmony. The process is not merely about crafting functional items but about capturing the essence of nature's artistry, preserving it for generations to come. To achieve this and inspired by the Japanese Wabi-Sabi tradition, I engage in traditional craftsmanship techniques that honour the material's inherent qualities and embrace natural imperfections. I aim to create work that not only beautifies a wearer or space but also serves as a reminder of our connection to the Earth.
C
Photos by Hugo Alaimo @hugoherehugothere