IAN COLLISHAW work as an artisan is most often inspired by interactions with oWA's South-Western wilderness environments. He loves to create objects which reflect his sense of wonder and intrigue, and illustrate some of the narratives that anchor thse places in the senses. Ian aims to produce works which, like our old-growth forests are both unique and enduring. Utilising a combination of traditional skills and current technology, Ian's work is a blend of old and new practices in woodcraft. He is principally concerned with "melding the warmth and texture of wood with the tangible 'presence' of an artifact that has been finely handcrafted. Such an object is a pleasure to hold, and a joy to create."
PETER COOK has always been active in drawing and working creatively with his hands. One of his earliest and most enduring influences was an intricately crafted Japanese puzzlebox, received as a gift from his grandparents as a small boy. This magical totem remains with him to this day. Being strongly visual, Peter designs primarily from an aesthetic perspective. Organic forms - influenced by a love for the Australian wilderness - contrast with a strong bent towards engineering and things 'mechanical'. Within these parameters, as a contemporary artist and craftsman he is linked to the past and the future. His work explores form and function, magic and whimsy.