Xylographic Furniture: A reintroduction of meaning through ornament.

Abstract

The objects we cherish most are the ones that tell a story. This project is an investigation into methods of achieving this quality. I have chosen to approach this by examining the role of ornament in furniture design. In the past, ornament was used to convey collective narratives. In today’s design landscape the idea of ornamentation is relegated to kitsch. By combining the practice of Xylography (woodcut printing) and furniture design I have modernised the idea of ornament and imbued my work with tactile narrative qualities, which I feel are often lacking from design today. The process of ornamentation developed during this project, is intended to be applied holistically. The pieces shown here are examples of this application and its development. If successful, the process should deliver a piece of furniture which reflects the theme of the print. The print itself relates to the context or function of the object, this further enhances the narrative qualities. The result is a unique piece that visually communicates a place or memory. This then elicits an emotional attachment to the furniture. This project results in a piece that expresses these qualities. I chose myself as the client and therefore the furniture is a response to my memories. The piece in question is the kredenc1, which relates to food preparation. I therefore started by creating a set of prints based around my own fond food memories. Once the printing process is complete, the woodblocks take on a new role - as ornaments on the kredenc. As I cook the fragmented images subtly remind me of all the good food and associated memories I’ve had in the past. At the core of this project is the need to make objects that spark joy and curiosity. Objects such as the kredenc, that through their ability to make an impression accompany us throughout our lives, their story evolving along with our own.