Wood Hackers

A new generation of wood artists are pushing the limits of wood by sculpting it into radical forms, carving near impossible objects of beauty

Bethan Gray, (Bethan Gray design)

What prompted you to become a product designer?

Looking back, I believe that one of the most important factors was the encouragement from my family. My grandfather was a research forester and used to make and carve items for me as a child. I think I inherited his passion for trees and wood. My mother and father encouraged this and I then studied three-dimensional design at the university.

How do you decide the theme for your projects?

My maternal ancestors were Romany gypsies, who originated from Rajasthan and travelled all over the Middle East, before settling in Wales. They went on an incredible journey across continents - I have since visited many of the places they passed through, inspired by my own love of travel, art and culture. My mission now is to bring contemporary relevance to the traditional techniques from these regions - keeping both cultural narratives and craftskills alive.

What comes first - the materials or the design idea?

It is actually the combination of both, and it comes from working closely with master craftsmen. Micth Abdul Karim Crites, based in Delhi and Jaipur, introduced me to various collections in Islamic sections of museums as well as primary research, and I designed the Ruby Tree collection based on my design ideas and the materials his workshop specialised in. I am now delighted to be working in partnership with Shamsian, a renowned Omani artist and master craftsman who showcased middle eastern techniques, and who brings an exquisite appreciation and meticulous approach to the intricacies of marquetry, which I have paired with my contemporary approach.

What inspires you?