Benchmark for furniture art

When artist and USQ Visual Arts Studio Manager, Andrew MacDonald takes on a project, he does not do things by halves. More than a decade ago, he curated an exhibition showcasing the range and quality of furniture art being produced in our region.

Little did he know, this was the first step in an ongoing series which now sees him presenting mark three of the exhibition; Cutting List #3.

'Any exhibition of furniture is rare, especially a collection of unique handcrafted pieces by such a diversity of makers,” said Mr MacDonald.
“There is little opportunity for exposure for designers and makers in Toowoomba, and I see this series of exhibitions as a small but vital step in creating a profile.'

This year’s exhibition features pieces by twelve south east Queensland furniture makers, artists and designers.

'There will be a wide range of styles and abilities on show, from consummate professionals working in traditional techniques and design, to amateurs with a passion for timber.

'There will be minimal, even conceptual work and baroque carved pieces that have taken years to produce.

Toowoomba artists include cabinetmaker, Dean Timms; traditionally trained German craftsman, Frank Wiesner; self-trained timber recycling and restoration team, Adrian and Deanna Smith; boutique furniture makers, Jon and Sue Jesberg; passionate amateur woodworker, Wendy Hoey; and minimalist artist, Kyle Jenkins.

From further afield are Brisbane-based contemporary designer, Zane Separovich; Crows Nest furniture maker, David Dyson; and self-taught Lockyer Valley craftsman, Mockmickey.

Each has been asked to submit one piece in any media and style, giving participants an opportunity to showcase their skills and to take up the challenge to extend their usual practice.

A sculptor with a passion for wood and all things recycled, Mr MacDonald will also be contributing a piece to the exhibition.

'I consider myself a bricoleur; someone who puts things together - skills, parts, junk and things not intended for the job - in a creative manner.

'I have been working with recycled piano parts for ten years or so and the cabinet I will be showing is by far my largest and most ambitious project to date.'

The exhibition also provides the opportunity for industry-based workers, like kitchenmakers, to explore the possibilities of original, one-off work.

'I see art furniture as a departure from usual furniture in that the design is unique and the production as being limited to one-off pieces, definitely not a production run.

'The functionality is sometimes questionable, which allows for exploration of form and concept, which can aid in the development of new designs.

'It can therefore question people’s expectations of furniture.'

Cutting List #3 runs from 21 September until 8 October and will be officially opened by Master Craftsman, Laurens Otto at 5pm on Wednesday 29 September in the USQ Arts Gallery.

The Gallery is open Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm and admission is free of charge.