In our latest edition of the Journal - East Meets West, we had the privilege of interviewing Gareth Neal, an experimental maker and renowned figure in the world of contemporary British craft.
As an award-winning artisan furniture maker, Gareth strives to combine traditional techniques with digital technology to push the boundaries of what’s possible. He is passionate about respecting the process, understanding the material and enjoys working collaboratively with others to create bespoke pieces that are celebrated across the world.
Gareth currently runs his own progressive design practice in London, a mere 5 miles from one of our international Design Centers.
DRIVEN BY DESIRE TO TRANSCEND CONVENTIONAL BOUNDARIES
With a specialization in crafting bespoke wood furniture since the 1990s, Gareth has garnered recognition as an award-winning artisan furniture maker.
Gareth endeavors to blend traditional techniques with digital technology, constantly pushing the limits of what can be achieved. His work embodies a deep respect for the artistic process and a profound understanding of materials, often collaborating with others to produce bespoke pieces that have garnered acclaim on a global scale.
Currently operating his progressive design practice in East London, Gareth's work is defined by his role as a designer-maker. However, he believes there is a deeper significance to his craft. He envisions the fusion of traditional and digital techniques in a harmonious manner, resulting in one-of-a-kind creations. By considering the wider impact of his objects, from sourcing materials to the manufacturing process and the individuals involved, Gareth strives to generate original, visually captivating, and thought-provoking ideas that are both environmentally sustainable and aesthetically pleasing.
LOOKING AHEAD
I am particularly excited about our ongoing exploration of a new range of Sand Vessels in the workshop. The process not only fills me with anticipation but also offers a sense of liberation, as it opens up endless possibilities. What I find truly fascinating about printing directly from the computer is the ability to visualize the final result before committing precious materials and resources. The fluid yet solid nature of the substrate allows for boundless configurations, enabling me to materialize designs that were once mere dreams. I perceive the machine as an extension of the human hand, and I believe that the absence of a chisel does not diminish the craftsmanship deeply embedded in every stage of producing these vessels. We are thrilled to create new iterations of these captivating vessels.
To explore more of my work, please visit garethneal.co.uk or follow me on Instagram @garethnealfurniture.
JOURNAL: EAST MEETS WEST
In our latest Journal you’ll discover Japanese interiors, brand-new floors and cultural techniques collated to inspire you on your own Japanese journey. The articles are a celebration of East Meets West design fusion and demonstrate the rich heritage and influence of Japanese techniques and culture on the landscape of contemporary American design.
Download a copy or get in touch to order a physical version.
Woodworks by Ted Todd, Suite 408, Fourth Floor, NYDC 200 Lex, 200 Lexington Avenue, NY10016
Phone: 212.597.2693
