Simon Hooper, Simon Hooper (Studio Furniture 2018)

My woodworking career began on the end of a Hargen saw cutting sleepers and fence posts in North Queensland. I became fascinated with the timber and was always excited at the prospect of opening a new log and being the first person to discover the hidden treasure within. My early furniture was built out of necessity and was big, solid and rustic. I was forever hobbled by my lack of equipment and woodworking skills, however, I was obsessed, and continued making furniture which I began to sell at the local markets. After moving to Sydney decided that if I was ever to make a living out of furniture I needed to get some formal training. Two of the most rewarding and productive years of my life were spent at the Canberra Institute of Art wood school. In Brisbane I started a small building company but over the years furniture became my main focus. My designs now draw from Art Deco and oriental practices. The techniques used in these pieces are extremely challenging, and require a degree of perfection that constantly taxes my ability. Therein lies the extreme sense of satisfaction gained through being challenged and coming through the process with a piece you look at, and say, ‘Did I make that?’ Website: www.simonhooperfurniture.com

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