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A boarded construction from knotty oak of great strength, locally sourced in the Scottish Borders. The hinges are forged in shape around the knots by John Hill – one-time blacksmith to York Minster Cathedral. John reused the wrought iron from ancient farm implements.
This was pegged and hinged 25 years ago and sat dormant until I decided to fill the cracks (inside and out) with oak and brass composite. The outsides are darkened with gall ink. The surface is smoothed over to feature the knots and I have left raw saw-marks in other areas.
I have managed to blend uncomplicated jointing with sculptural minimalism expressed through the wood craft of cleft oak. Referring back to early styles of cottage furniture has become a frequent source of inspiration and rudimentary character. I like things to last well and be relevant over time to fresh interpretation.
Adrian McCurdy has worked with wood since an early age. With a background in Fine Art, Adrian’s career moved first from painting to a development of unique wood-skills in furniture and more recently carved panels. From his workshop in the Scottish Borders, Adrian produces furniture using quality local timber and craft techniques both long established and contemporary, often working with storm damaged wood felled by local saw-mills.
‘My roots in traditional crafts go back to childhood experiences in a home where hand making furniture was my father’s career and regular conversation subject. We even had a lesson in cutting bread. I took a somewhat contrary direction by choosing art college and painting, but perhaps unsurprisingly found earning an income easier using what felt like natural wood-skills. I found a part-time opportunity that brought me to the Scottish Borders 45 years ago to assist Tim Stead with furniture. Although Tim’s preference to folk art was greater than mine, the simple approach he practised made sense to me.’ – Adrian McCurdy, 2023
Public collections include: Perth Art Gallery and Museum; National Museums Scotland, Edinburgh; Globe Theatre, London; Ann Getty Collection, Hawaii.
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