hold on tight: here we go

2009: it's going to be an interesting year. And I can't wait.

Usually at this time of year I'm joining my fellow bloggers in reflecting upon the past 12 months and giving you lists of ten best things of this and that. But I'm having none of it this time round: the past is gone, we can't change it, so let's move on and look to the future.

And there's going to be lots happening around here. First of all I've added two new categories: china connect and cold cuts from ko. There'll be more news about those in the days ahead. But let me just say that this year we're going global.

Second up is that I've been reflecting upon my unwritten rules; one of which is not to mention my day job (or, more accurately, not to comment on jobs that I'm actively working on). But I'm very fortunate in being able to work on some really exciting projects, and to work with some really interesting people. And so I've decided to reinterpret that particular rule. Which allows me to introduce you to the work of Gareth Neal:

Gareth is a furniture designer who graduated from Buckinghamshire University in 1996 and established his own design practice in 2002. His practice combines the technical capabilities of 3D computer drawing and computer numerically controlled processes, allied to the tradititional skills of professional craftsmanship.

His current body of work derives from the aesthetic and conceptual experimentation of his earlier work, and has a complex geometric configuration that takes on a dual form. The exterior structure is meticulously chipped away to reveal an interior design that is reminiscent of traditional furniture styles. Over time, the surface erosion gradually unveils the forms of a previous era.

That's pretty amazing, isn't it? You can find out more about Gareth from his website. And he'll be exhibiting at the Crafts Study Centre from 2 June to 25 July (which is where I come in: I'm just putting together the next programme for the Centre - email me if you'd like a copy).

So, there you are. A great start to a great year. And plenty more to come.

Comments

[Adrian McEwen]

I think you're right. Onwards and upwards, rather than all this looking back. Happy new year!

Gareth's stuff is cool. His work was some of the most memorable stuff I saw at the Milan furniture festival last year.

[caroline]

That furniture is beautiful, really stunning. You are really lucky to work with such a creatively adept person. Its reassuring to hear you being so positive about the year to come. I'm thinking last year was hard for a lot of people me included, and the last time I noticed so many people having a bad year was 2000.
I met a guy the other night who is also very excited about the coming year ref work and some partnerships he has formed locally and in the midst of the credit crunch (Im already bored of saying that arent you?) its great that happiness, creativity and the desire to achieve is still maintained. Can't wait for another year of DTD!

[wine furniture racks]

I also went to the Milan furniture festival, and I have to say that his designs were incredible. Very talented artist. Greetings