Neil Erasmus was born in Cape Town, South Afiica in 4954. In 1974 he started an apprenticeship with his father. Working wood is very much in Neil's blood, it having been passed down from father to son through 3 generations, with Neil now having been at it for over 20 years.

Neil's design philosophy subscribes to an eclectic school of thought, with his work divided evenly between conventional and contemporary styles. However, he prefers the special challenges offered by the latter. Neil's original contemporary designs are somewhat inspired by American Shaker, Traditional Japanese and the Arts and Crafts Movement styles, where small detail and joints are exposed and highlighted, and fine contrasting intarsia and inlays are featured. Tibetan architectural styles also have a strong influence on Neil's designs, Neil works mainly in solid Australian hardwoods like Jarrah and Blackwood and occasionally hand-cuts special highly figured veneers for visual effect on such things as drawer fronts and panels. Central to his philosophy is a disciplined practise of woodworking skills using traditional techniques, and an unwavering commitment to maintaining a pleasing balance between form and function. The natural beauty of the timber is enhanced 'With hand rubbed oils, waxes or shellac.

Neil is a former head of the Australian School for Fine Furniture located in Launceston, Tasmania and a regular contributor to Australian Wood Review Magazine.