The Art of Making

10 February – 19 March 2022

Reflecting Australian Design Centre’s commitment to showcasing outstanding studio practice, The Art of Making: Studio Woodworkers Australia, demonstrates technical mastery pushing creative and material boundaries. Across an eclectic selection of furniture, objects and wall pieces, the exhibition highlights the unique qualities of Australian timbers and fine craft and design skills

Studio Woodworkers Australia supports designer/makers and artists working in wood and this exhibition presents several pieces created through mentorship and collaboration - a reminder of the fruitful creative exchange between makers. Using processes that respect and draw out the intrinsic beauty of fine timbers, these designers have created objects intended to span across generations.

Kristie Phelan, (Head of Sturt) commented in her Opening remarks:

Each of these makers has taken different paths - some started as doctors, engineers, teachers or scientists, but each has made a fascinating choice to slow down and develop a deeper, more meaningful connection to nature through their craft. Connection to the natural world around them, but also the nature within. As one maker said, as we shape the wood, we shape ourselves.

In these challenging times, it’s a choice many are making. Contemporary craft is now a symbol of a more authentic, more sustainable relationship to the objects in our world. Appreciation for fine-furniture masterfully-made is flourishing. Commissions for Australian makers are at an all time high, as is the desire to learn from those makers.

Contemporary craft is so exciting, it exists on the precipice of continual reinvention, the dangerous tightrope between the old and the new, of tradition and innovation. To be a master not only requires wisdom but also bravery. It is a delight to witness true masters who’ve honed their skill and carry generations of accumulated knowledge then blended it with their own imaginations to create something new.

About Studio Woodworkers Australia

Studio Woodworkers Australia Limited (SWA) was established to promote Australia’s finest designer makers and artists working in wood. They embrace a life dedicated to studio practice and high craft that seeks to express the qualities of a living material.

Studio Woodworkers Australia would like to thank their exhibition supporter Felder Group, and SWA supporters Australian Wood Review, H.N.T Gordon & Co, Anagote Pty Ltd and Colen Clenton.

Image top: Evan Dunstone, Mutawintji 1, 2021, photo: Adam McGrath of Hcreations

Events:

Artist Talks: The Art of Making in Wood
Take a tour through The Art of Making and meet some of Australia’s finest artists working in wood.
When: Saturday 19 February, 2-3.30pm
Where: Australian Design Centre
Free event, bookings required, RSVP here

Explorations in Wood: A Designer/Maker Panel Discussion
An industry focused panel discussion for designers, makers, and lovers of wood. What is the value of bespoke furniture in a mass market, what is sustainable wood, why does mentoring matter, and how can you sustain a successful studio practice? Consider these questions and more in a conversation led by Grace Cochrane AM speaking with Evan Dunstone, Tony Kenway, Darren Oates and Ruth Thompson.
When: 12 March, 2-3.30pm
Where: Australian Design Centre
Free event, bookings required, RSVP here