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History:
After training to be a junior school teacher in the nineteen seventies, Andrew realised that a career in a classroom of ten year olds wasn't for him. An earlier interest in design and craftsmanship resurfaced and he spent two years of informal tuition in fine furniture making with his father Harry, who spent most of his working life teaching woodwork and technical drawing in schools and to student craft teachers. Added to this, workshop experience and a course at Chesterfield College of Art set Andrew on the road to life as a designer maker. Since nineteen eighty he has been creating furniture in the former workshop of 'pioneer Derbyshire craftsman' Ben Coopland
[c. 1885-1965]in the magnificent landscape of the Peak District National Park.
His work has been widely exhibited, notably at the annual 'Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design' in Cheltenham, various exhibitions held in London and the provinces by the Society of Designer Craftsmen,
and most recently, 'The Arts & Crafts Legacy'in London, curated by Martin Grierson.
Andrew is a Member of The Chartered Society of Designers, a Fellow of the Society of Designer Craftsmen and a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Furniture makers.
Away from his own workshop, he has taught at the Center For Furniture Craftsmanship, Maine, USAand assisted Alan Peters OBE, Minehead, Somerset, for two short periods.
Description:
Andrew creates furniture that is fit for purpose, of high quality materials throughout and using the best constructional methods for the job, with the joints themselves forming a decorative element of the design where appropriate. Much of his work has a geometric, rather than organic feel, which is partly a result of his fascination with Art Deco and Modernist architecture.
Most of his work is made to commission, but he also makes several speculative pieces each year to offer for sale at exhibitions and directly from his small showroom.
Enquires are invited for any single item or room scheme that requires distinctive and individual handling, for private homes, corporate clients and public buildings.