I was unusual, as a traditionally indentured apprentice, in having a thirst for the more contemporary; this led me to a summer school with Rod Wales at Parham House. That environment of fine craftsmanship and the designs and work of the John Makepeace studio all around lit a spark that has taken me on a two decade journey. Along the journey working on listed buildings, churches and cathedrals of southern England. Then, setting up a company specialising in high-end fit outs and installations in London.

A long held desire took me and my partner to New Zealand and Australia travelling and working for two years, feeling and becoming more in tune with nature and the more creative crafts.

After a few years back in the UK applying for our Australian residency, my partner and I were off again. Living and travelling for two years through Asia, learning different languages and cultures. Seeking out and being taught by local wood carvers, bone carvers, weavers, traditional tattooists and jewellers, always looking and searching out people with passion, craft and skills.

Landing back in Australia with the decision to pursue this path in fine furniture and craft, I started looking at teaching schools. Realising I was far too obstinate to be taught along-side other students, (it wouldn’t be fair on them!), an encounter with Ross Annels led me to another bend in the road, two years as an intern with him. A contemporary furniture designer-maker, specialising in chairs at his studio up in the beautiful hills of the sunshine coast.

Learning new skills, falling in love with the beautiful Australian timbers and finding my own style with now two decades of experience, drawings, designs and sketches, it feels great to be starting this new chapter, bringing my thoughts and ideas to life.