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I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

I am on a mission to learn, to make space for hearing voices which will lead to a more inclusive making community.
We held a hands on consultation last weekend, guiding some inspiring social sector professionals through the design and build of a beautiful little mirror – all while holding conversation about how to reach diverse communities, how to invite more people into the workshop and explore ideas for creating a community of skilled and empowered makers.
I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.

I am developing this pathway, one of many for Built In-Kind, to explore how providing tool and construction skills might empower more people, and change how we as a society relate to our built environments, to ourselves - our own ideas of our capacity and identity.

I am so grateful to the deeply caring, passionate and experienced professionals who joined me last weekend – from OT’s to social workers and more!. Thank you for the energy, support and generosity you brought to the workshop – I can’t wait to take this learning further!

These mirrors – their forms each designed by their maker, are crafted from salvaged mirror, and precious old Australian Cedar – passed on to me from a friend who’s great grandfather used to make grandfather clocks with it. I have had a bit of paralysis of what to do with this ancient and irreplaceable timber, so precious – fearful that anything I could do with it would be unable to do it justice, but somehow I feel that teaching, and making small and sentimental things with it, is the best form it can take. I am deeply grateful to it.

Thank you to the ever amazing @livecreativlee who captured these stunning photos! What a talented story teller...

@taylor_springthorpe
@maryamfarnia
@absolucieee
@jye_whyte
@christinamundyrobberds
@moa_newcastle

What does it look like when you bring together 18 people over 7 days, all building toward a collective project - designed to facilitate teaching, community building and sustainability?It looks a bit like this! Three amazing work benches, built from recycled hardwood, all the whole inviting new and amazing humans into the workshop, sharing lessons, labour, food, music and connection in reciprocity.Huge thanks to @everett_creative for co-facilitating this heart - filling week, and to the amazing humans who came along to help! @christinamundyrobberds Sophie Wheeler, Donny, @einschoi @_jarod_pak_ @gretel.m @taylor_springthorpe @tlee.archi @james.sara42 @simonasoeters @reptile_overlord @living.breathing.grace and to our friends @round2timbersnewcastle for letting us use your amazing drum sander to give these beauties a face lift!

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Thursdays are my favourite because I get to spend the day with Hannah working on our exhibition piece ✨

We are in the final stages now where every little detail matters. We are refining each element & making sure it feels intentional & cohesive. Lately we have been adding some gold magic & experimenting with these prototypes have been so much fun.

Somehow we even found extra time for Hannah to show me some wood carving techniques which was such a treat!

@built_in_kind
@newcastleartspace
@soapfactorynewcastle

#goldieaustralia #artmentorship #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #exhibition

Very chuffed to have won the @woothaprize for Sculpture with 'I love you (Everyday)'

The Wootha Prize is a pretty amazing initiative, hosted by Barung Landcare, the prize aims to celebrate sustainable timber practices.

It's on exhibition up in Montville, QLD before finding it's forever home having sold this weekend!

Does anyone else get sad when their work sells? Or is it just me?

Photo credit to @livecreativlee and Wootha Prize Coordinator Corrie Wright

Very chuffed to have won the @woothaprize for Sculpture with 'I love you (Everyday)'

The Wootha Prize is a pretty amazing initiative, hosted by Barung Landcare, the prize aims to celebrate sustainable timber practices.

It's on exhibition up in Montville, QLD before finding it's forever home having sold this weekend!

Does anyone else get sad when their work sells? Or is it just me?

Photo credit to @livecreativlee and Wootha Prize Coordinator Corrie Wright

Very chuffed to have won the @woothaprize for Sculpture with 'I love you (Everyday)'

The Wootha Prize is a pretty amazing initiative, hosted by Barung Landcare, the prize aims to celebrate sustainable timber practices.

It's on exhibition up in Montville, QLD before finding it's forever home having sold this weekend!

Does anyone else get sad when their work sells? Or is it just me?

Photo credit to @livecreativlee and Wootha Prize Coordinator Corrie Wright

Very chuffed to have won the @woothaprize for Sculpture with 'I love you (Everyday)'

The Wootha Prize is a pretty amazing initiative, hosted by Barung Landcare, the prize aims to celebrate sustainable timber practices.

It's on exhibition up in Montville, QLD before finding it's forever home having sold this weekend!

Does anyone else get sad when their work sells? Or is it just me?

Photo credit to @livecreativlee and Wootha Prize Coordinator Corrie Wright

There is a Garden

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
32cm x 42cm

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right-doing
there is a field. I’ll meet you there
Where the soul lies down in the grass
The world, is too full to talk about
Ideas, language – even the phrase ‘each other’
doesn’t make any sense.
- Rumi

In Tehran, Iran, my friends work together to clean up rubble and replace smashed windows—waiting, sheltering, and hoping that the tyranny of the US and Israel doesn’t reach them—all while continuously enduring their own oppressive regime. Phone calls out of the country to family are cut short; the internet is an on-again, off-again, unreliable love affair with the outside world.

All the while, I get to live in a kind of paradise. I move through the world as I desire. I can make art. Free.

‘There is a Garden’ (a mistranslation from a Farsi-speaking friend who first read to me Rumi’s There is a Field) is a rumination on geopolitical turmoil and my local experience of freedom and peace. There is intergenerational wisdom to be found in Rumi’s writing—a message that carries beyond generations, war, continents, centuries, languages, and religions. Rumi asks us to connect beyond our ideas of right and wrong, to find love, understanding, and our inner gardens.

While in Iran, I came to appreciate the confluence of mathematics and traditional art with biophilic form. There is something innately natural about mathematical patternation, repetition, and natural materials. The iridescence of cedar complements the waves of this piece, introducing an optical illusion that shifts as it is viewed from around the room.

‘There is a Garden’ is on exhibition (and for sale) at @thelockupartspace 2026 COLLECT exhibition, opening May 15th. This show is a fundraiser, raising funds to support the operation of the gallery.

See you there?

There is a Garden

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
32cm x 42cm

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right-doing
there is a field. I’ll meet you there
Where the soul lies down in the grass
The world, is too full to talk about
Ideas, language – even the phrase ‘each other’
doesn’t make any sense.
- Rumi

In Tehran, Iran, my friends work together to clean up rubble and replace smashed windows—waiting, sheltering, and hoping that the tyranny of the US and Israel doesn’t reach them—all while continuously enduring their own oppressive regime. Phone calls out of the country to family are cut short; the internet is an on-again, off-again, unreliable love affair with the outside world.

All the while, I get to live in a kind of paradise. I move through the world as I desire. I can make art. Free.

‘There is a Garden’ (a mistranslation from a Farsi-speaking friend who first read to me Rumi’s There is a Field) is a rumination on geopolitical turmoil and my local experience of freedom and peace. There is intergenerational wisdom to be found in Rumi’s writing—a message that carries beyond generations, war, continents, centuries, languages, and religions. Rumi asks us to connect beyond our ideas of right and wrong, to find love, understanding, and our inner gardens.

While in Iran, I came to appreciate the confluence of mathematics and traditional art with biophilic form. There is something innately natural about mathematical patternation, repetition, and natural materials. The iridescence of cedar complements the waves of this piece, introducing an optical illusion that shifts as it is viewed from around the room.

‘There is a Garden’ is on exhibition (and for sale) at @thelockupartspace 2026 COLLECT exhibition, opening May 15th. This show is a fundraiser, raising funds to support the operation of the gallery.

See you there?

There is a Garden

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
32cm x 42cm

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right-doing
there is a field. I’ll meet you there
Where the soul lies down in the grass
The world, is too full to talk about
Ideas, language – even the phrase ‘each other’
doesn’t make any sense.
- Rumi

In Tehran, Iran, my friends work together to clean up rubble and replace smashed windows—waiting, sheltering, and hoping that the tyranny of the US and Israel doesn’t reach them—all while continuously enduring their own oppressive regime. Phone calls out of the country to family are cut short; the internet is an on-again, off-again, unreliable love affair with the outside world.

All the while, I get to live in a kind of paradise. I move through the world as I desire. I can make art. Free.

‘There is a Garden’ (a mistranslation from a Farsi-speaking friend who first read to me Rumi’s There is a Field) is a rumination on geopolitical turmoil and my local experience of freedom and peace. There is intergenerational wisdom to be found in Rumi’s writing—a message that carries beyond generations, war, continents, centuries, languages, and religions. Rumi asks us to connect beyond our ideas of right and wrong, to find love, understanding, and our inner gardens.

While in Iran, I came to appreciate the confluence of mathematics and traditional art with biophilic form. There is something innately natural about mathematical patternation, repetition, and natural materials. The iridescence of cedar complements the waves of this piece, introducing an optical illusion that shifts as it is viewed from around the room.

‘There is a Garden’ is on exhibition (and for sale) at @thelockupartspace 2026 COLLECT exhibition, opening May 15th. This show is a fundraiser, raising funds to support the operation of the gallery.

See you there?

There is a Garden

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
32cm x 42cm

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right-doing
there is a field. I’ll meet you there
Where the soul lies down in the grass
The world, is too full to talk about
Ideas, language – even the phrase ‘each other’
doesn’t make any sense.
- Rumi

In Tehran, Iran, my friends work together to clean up rubble and replace smashed windows—waiting, sheltering, and hoping that the tyranny of the US and Israel doesn’t reach them—all while continuously enduring their own oppressive regime. Phone calls out of the country to family are cut short; the internet is an on-again, off-again, unreliable love affair with the outside world.

All the while, I get to live in a kind of paradise. I move through the world as I desire. I can make art. Free.

‘There is a Garden’ (a mistranslation from a Farsi-speaking friend who first read to me Rumi’s There is a Field) is a rumination on geopolitical turmoil and my local experience of freedom and peace. There is intergenerational wisdom to be found in Rumi’s writing—a message that carries beyond generations, war, continents, centuries, languages, and religions. Rumi asks us to connect beyond our ideas of right and wrong, to find love, understanding, and our inner gardens.

While in Iran, I came to appreciate the confluence of mathematics and traditional art with biophilic form. There is something innately natural about mathematical patternation, repetition, and natural materials. The iridescence of cedar complements the waves of this piece, introducing an optical illusion that shifts as it is viewed from around the room.

‘There is a Garden’ is on exhibition (and for sale) at @thelockupartspace 2026 COLLECT exhibition, opening May 15th. This show is a fundraiser, raising funds to support the operation of the gallery.

See you there?

There is a Garden

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
32cm x 42cm

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right-doing
there is a field. I’ll meet you there
Where the soul lies down in the grass
The world, is too full to talk about
Ideas, language – even the phrase ‘each other’
doesn’t make any sense.
- Rumi

In Tehran, Iran, my friends work together to clean up rubble and replace smashed windows—waiting, sheltering, and hoping that the tyranny of the US and Israel doesn’t reach them—all while continuously enduring their own oppressive regime. Phone calls out of the country to family are cut short; the internet is an on-again, off-again, unreliable love affair with the outside world.

All the while, I get to live in a kind of paradise. I move through the world as I desire. I can make art. Free.

‘There is a Garden’ (a mistranslation from a Farsi-speaking friend who first read to me Rumi’s There is a Field) is a rumination on geopolitical turmoil and my local experience of freedom and peace. There is intergenerational wisdom to be found in Rumi’s writing—a message that carries beyond generations, war, continents, centuries, languages, and religions. Rumi asks us to connect beyond our ideas of right and wrong, to find love, understanding, and our inner gardens.

While in Iran, I came to appreciate the confluence of mathematics and traditional art with biophilic form. There is something innately natural about mathematical patternation, repetition, and natural materials. The iridescence of cedar complements the waves of this piece, introducing an optical illusion that shifts as it is viewed from around the room.

‘There is a Garden’ is on exhibition (and for sale) at @thelockupartspace 2026 COLLECT exhibition, opening May 15th. This show is a fundraiser, raising funds to support the operation of the gallery.

See you there?

There is a Garden

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
32cm x 42cm

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right-doing
there is a field. I’ll meet you there
Where the soul lies down in the grass
The world, is too full to talk about
Ideas, language – even the phrase ‘each other’
doesn’t make any sense.
- Rumi

In Tehran, Iran, my friends work together to clean up rubble and replace smashed windows—waiting, sheltering, and hoping that the tyranny of the US and Israel doesn’t reach them—all while continuously enduring their own oppressive regime. Phone calls out of the country to family are cut short; the internet is an on-again, off-again, unreliable love affair with the outside world.

All the while, I get to live in a kind of paradise. I move through the world as I desire. I can make art. Free.

‘There is a Garden’ (a mistranslation from a Farsi-speaking friend who first read to me Rumi’s There is a Field) is a rumination on geopolitical turmoil and my local experience of freedom and peace. There is intergenerational wisdom to be found in Rumi’s writing—a message that carries beyond generations, war, continents, centuries, languages, and religions. Rumi asks us to connect beyond our ideas of right and wrong, to find love, understanding, and our inner gardens.

While in Iran, I came to appreciate the confluence of mathematics and traditional art with biophilic form. There is something innately natural about mathematical patternation, repetition, and natural materials. The iridescence of cedar complements the waves of this piece, introducing an optical illusion that shifts as it is viewed from around the room.

‘There is a Garden’ is on exhibition (and for sale) at @thelockupartspace 2026 COLLECT exhibition, opening May 15th. This show is a fundraiser, raising funds to support the operation of the gallery.

See you there?

I’m delighted to have been selected as part of the @newcastleartspace Mentorship 2026 ✨

I have been paired with Hannah from @built_in_kind & over the past few weeks we have been getting to know each other & exploring our practices together. Last week, we began our first experiment, bringing together Hannah’s expertise in wood with my work in clay.

We have an exciting concept in mind, with many experiments & iterations ahead to bring it to life. This journey has already been incredibly inspiring & I’m really looking forward to the many sessions to come.

I'm feeling very grateful for this opportunity! Thanks Hannah @built_in_kind for your time & generosity in sharing your knowledge.

#goldieaustralia #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #thesoapfactory #artmentorship n

I’m delighted to have been selected as part of the @newcastleartspace Mentorship 2026 ✨

I have been paired with Hannah from @built_in_kind & over the past few weeks we have been getting to know each other & exploring our practices together. Last week, we began our first experiment, bringing together Hannah’s expertise in wood with my work in clay.

We have an exciting concept in mind, with many experiments & iterations ahead to bring it to life. This journey has already been incredibly inspiring & I’m really looking forward to the many sessions to come.

I'm feeling very grateful for this opportunity! Thanks Hannah @built_in_kind for your time & generosity in sharing your knowledge.

#goldieaustralia #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #thesoapfactory #artmentorship n

I’m delighted to have been selected as part of the @newcastleartspace Mentorship 2026 ✨

I have been paired with Hannah from @built_in_kind & over the past few weeks we have been getting to know each other & exploring our practices together. Last week, we began our first experiment, bringing together Hannah’s expertise in wood with my work in clay.

We have an exciting concept in mind, with many experiments & iterations ahead to bring it to life. This journey has already been incredibly inspiring & I’m really looking forward to the many sessions to come.

I'm feeling very grateful for this opportunity! Thanks Hannah @built_in_kind for your time & generosity in sharing your knowledge.

#goldieaustralia #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #thesoapfactory #artmentorship n

I’m delighted to have been selected as part of the @newcastleartspace Mentorship 2026 ✨

I have been paired with Hannah from @built_in_kind & over the past few weeks we have been getting to know each other & exploring our practices together. Last week, we began our first experiment, bringing together Hannah’s expertise in wood with my work in clay.

We have an exciting concept in mind, with many experiments & iterations ahead to bring it to life. This journey has already been incredibly inspiring & I’m really looking forward to the many sessions to come.

I'm feeling very grateful for this opportunity! Thanks Hannah @built_in_kind for your time & generosity in sharing your knowledge.

#goldieaustralia #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #thesoapfactory #artmentorship n

I’m delighted to have been selected as part of the @newcastleartspace Mentorship 2026 ✨

I have been paired with Hannah from @built_in_kind & over the past few weeks we have been getting to know each other & exploring our practices together. Last week, we began our first experiment, bringing together Hannah’s expertise in wood with my work in clay.

We have an exciting concept in mind, with many experiments & iterations ahead to bring it to life. This journey has already been incredibly inspiring & I’m really looking forward to the many sessions to come.

I'm feeling very grateful for this opportunity! Thanks Hannah @built_in_kind for your time & generosity in sharing your knowledge.

#goldieaustralia #newcastlensw #newcastleartspace #thesoapfactory #artmentorship n

I Love You (Everyday)

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
30cm x 80cm

To create something fluid from something solid. To test the limits of timber.
To have a finished piece that can be moved and re-formed into perpetuity.

These were the ways I wished to honour this ancient red cedar.
A piece that is a meditation on love: the love received, love offered, and the love that’s still trying to find her place.

I Love You (Everyday) was brought together thanks to 30 loving hands.

Special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 @gillybananas @milene_matter @ljh_design @livcreativelee @jenkdust @katskoumbas @shellilabelle @newylyfe @old.butstillgood @a_little_wils0 @_jarod_pak_

Over 100 hours of sanding, waxing and buffing in this one! ❤️

Come visit I Love You (Everyday) at the group exhibition “Everyday” at Back to Back Gallery - opening Saturday 7th March!@novocastrian.art @newcastle_studio_potters_inc

I Love You (Everyday)

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
30cm x 80cm

To create something fluid from something solid. To test the limits of timber.
To have a finished piece that can be moved and re-formed into perpetuity.

These were the ways I wished to honour this ancient red cedar.
A piece that is a meditation on love: the love received, love offered, and the love that’s still trying to find her place.

I Love You (Everyday) was brought together thanks to 30 loving hands.

Special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 @gillybananas @milene_matter @ljh_design @livcreativelee @jenkdust @katskoumbas @shellilabelle @newylyfe @old.butstillgood @a_little_wils0 @_jarod_pak_

Over 100 hours of sanding, waxing and buffing in this one! ❤️

Come visit I Love You (Everyday) at the group exhibition “Everyday” at Back to Back Gallery - opening Saturday 7th March!@novocastrian.art @newcastle_studio_potters_inc

I Love You (Everyday)

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
30cm x 80cm

To create something fluid from something solid. To test the limits of timber.
To have a finished piece that can be moved and re-formed into perpetuity.

These were the ways I wished to honour this ancient red cedar.
A piece that is a meditation on love: the love received, love offered, and the love that’s still trying to find her place.

I Love You (Everyday) was brought together thanks to 30 loving hands.

Special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 @gillybananas @milene_matter @ljh_design @livcreativelee @jenkdust @katskoumbas @shellilabelle @newylyfe @old.butstillgood @a_little_wils0 @_jarod_pak_

Over 100 hours of sanding, waxing and buffing in this one! ❤️

Come visit I Love You (Everyday) at the group exhibition “Everyday” at Back to Back Gallery - opening Saturday 7th March!@novocastrian.art @newcastle_studio_potters_inc

I Love You (Everyday)

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
30cm x 80cm

To create something fluid from something solid. To test the limits of timber.
To have a finished piece that can be moved and re-formed into perpetuity.

These were the ways I wished to honour this ancient red cedar.
A piece that is a meditation on love: the love received, love offered, and the love that’s still trying to find her place.

I Love You (Everyday) was brought together thanks to 30 loving hands.

Special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 @gillybananas @milene_matter @ljh_design @livcreativelee @jenkdust @katskoumbas @shellilabelle @newylyfe @old.butstillgood @a_little_wils0 @_jarod_pak_

Over 100 hours of sanding, waxing and buffing in this one! ❤️

Come visit I Love You (Everyday) at the group exhibition “Everyday” at Back to Back Gallery - opening Saturday 7th March!@novocastrian.art @newcastle_studio_potters_inc

I Love You (Everyday)

Toona ciliata (red cedar), wax finish
30cm x 80cm

To create something fluid from something solid. To test the limits of timber.
To have a finished piece that can be moved and re-formed into perpetuity.

These were the ways I wished to honour this ancient red cedar.
A piece that is a meditation on love: the love received, love offered, and the love that’s still trying to find her place.

I Love You (Everyday) was brought together thanks to 30 loving hands.

Special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 @gillybananas @milene_matter @ljh_design @livcreativelee @jenkdust @katskoumbas @shellilabelle @newylyfe @old.butstillgood @a_little_wils0 @_jarod_pak_

Over 100 hours of sanding, waxing and buffing in this one! ❤️

Come visit I Love You (Everyday) at the group exhibition “Everyday” at Back to Back Gallery - opening Saturday 7th March!@novocastrian.art @newcastle_studio_potters_inc

Cartography of Connection

Scrap MDF, acrylic housepaint.
60xm x 50cm

I was delighted to be invited to create a piece for @mahalia_ceramics_ exhibition, centering objects and moments from our ‘Everyday.’

Rather than exploring everyday objects, I wanted to explore everyday feelings.

Cartography of Connection was a meditation on connectedness, friendships, and the social fabric that envelopes my day-to-day.

I was looking for a form that celebrated repetition and material exploration, aiming to delight and surprise a viewer when they discover the materiality.
Meant only to be a prototype for a chainmail blanket made from solid timber, the MDF prototype grew its own legs, becoming a piece in its' own right!

With special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 for the technical production assistance, and for being my friend <3

Cartography of Connection is being shown at “Everyday,” at Back to Back Gallery – join us for opening drinks Saturday 7th March 2026 4pm to 7pm.

I will be joining a herd of 16 other artists! Including: @baggesbruk amararosallia @ecoreart @ramona___raven @old.butstillgood @mariaivanart @lauren.wiltshire.art @holly_in_bloom @__sulk @built_in_kind @gill.is.glazed.and.confused @lexieworboyart @sketchy____kid and @emma_guthrey_ceramics

Cartography of Connection

Scrap MDF, acrylic housepaint.
60xm x 50cm

I was delighted to be invited to create a piece for @mahalia_ceramics_ exhibition, centering objects and moments from our ‘Everyday.’

Rather than exploring everyday objects, I wanted to explore everyday feelings.

Cartography of Connection was a meditation on connectedness, friendships, and the social fabric that envelopes my day-to-day.

I was looking for a form that celebrated repetition and material exploration, aiming to delight and surprise a viewer when they discover the materiality.
Meant only to be a prototype for a chainmail blanket made from solid timber, the MDF prototype grew its own legs, becoming a piece in its' own right!

With special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 for the technical production assistance, and for being my friend <3

Cartography of Connection is being shown at “Everyday,” at Back to Back Gallery – join us for opening drinks Saturday 7th March 2026 4pm to 7pm.

I will be joining a herd of 16 other artists! Including: @baggesbruk amararosallia @ecoreart @ramona___raven @old.butstillgood @mariaivanart @lauren.wiltshire.art @holly_in_bloom @__sulk @built_in_kind @gill.is.glazed.and.confused @lexieworboyart @sketchy____kid and @emma_guthrey_ceramics

Cartography of Connection

Scrap MDF, acrylic housepaint.
60xm x 50cm

I was delighted to be invited to create a piece for @mahalia_ceramics_ exhibition, centering objects and moments from our ‘Everyday.’

Rather than exploring everyday objects, I wanted to explore everyday feelings.

Cartography of Connection was a meditation on connectedness, friendships, and the social fabric that envelopes my day-to-day.

I was looking for a form that celebrated repetition and material exploration, aiming to delight and surprise a viewer when they discover the materiality.
Meant only to be a prototype for a chainmail blanket made from solid timber, the MDF prototype grew its own legs, becoming a piece in its' own right!

With special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 for the technical production assistance, and for being my friend <3

Cartography of Connection is being shown at “Everyday,” at Back to Back Gallery – join us for opening drinks Saturday 7th March 2026 4pm to 7pm.

I will be joining a herd of 16 other artists! Including: @baggesbruk amararosallia @ecoreart @ramona___raven @old.butstillgood @mariaivanart @lauren.wiltshire.art @holly_in_bloom @__sulk @built_in_kind @gill.is.glazed.and.confused @lexieworboyart @sketchy____kid and @emma_guthrey_ceramics

Cartography of Connection

Scrap MDF, acrylic housepaint.
60xm x 50cm

I was delighted to be invited to create a piece for @mahalia_ceramics_ exhibition, centering objects and moments from our ‘Everyday.’

Rather than exploring everyday objects, I wanted to explore everyday feelings.

Cartography of Connection was a meditation on connectedness, friendships, and the social fabric that envelopes my day-to-day.

I was looking for a form that celebrated repetition and material exploration, aiming to delight and surprise a viewer when they discover the materiality.
Meant only to be a prototype for a chainmail blanket made from solid timber, the MDF prototype grew its own legs, becoming a piece in its' own right!

With special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 for the technical production assistance, and for being my friend <3

Cartography of Connection is being shown at “Everyday,” at Back to Back Gallery – join us for opening drinks Saturday 7th March 2026 4pm to 7pm.

I will be joining a herd of 16 other artists! Including: @baggesbruk amararosallia @ecoreart @ramona___raven @old.butstillgood @mariaivanart @lauren.wiltshire.art @holly_in_bloom @__sulk @built_in_kind @gill.is.glazed.and.confused @lexieworboyart @sketchy____kid and @emma_guthrey_ceramics

Cartography of Connection

Scrap MDF, acrylic housepaint.
60xm x 50cm

I was delighted to be invited to create a piece for @mahalia_ceramics_ exhibition, centering objects and moments from our ‘Everyday.’

Rather than exploring everyday objects, I wanted to explore everyday feelings.

Cartography of Connection was a meditation on connectedness, friendships, and the social fabric that envelopes my day-to-day.

I was looking for a form that celebrated repetition and material exploration, aiming to delight and surprise a viewer when they discover the materiality.
Meant only to be a prototype for a chainmail blanket made from solid timber, the MDF prototype grew its own legs, becoming a piece in its' own right!

With special thanks to @ben.schaeffer89 for the technical production assistance, and for being my friend <3

Cartography of Connection is being shown at “Everyday,” at Back to Back Gallery – join us for opening drinks Saturday 7th March 2026 4pm to 7pm.

I will be joining a herd of 16 other artists! Including: @baggesbruk amararosallia @ecoreart @ramona___raven @old.butstillgood @mariaivanart @lauren.wiltshire.art @holly_in_bloom @__sulk @built_in_kind @gill.is.glazed.and.confused @lexieworboyart @sketchy____kid and @emma_guthrey_ceramics

This is Hannah Cheetham @built_in_kind she is one of the amazing @newcastleartspace mentors for 2026. Applications are now open to participate in this dynamic arts professional development program, link in bio.

A little more about Hannah's practice: ‘Built In-Kind’ is informed by a need to explore solutions to both societal and environmental stressors experienced when living in a world in the throes of a changing climate, and a society of unequal social privileges.

Built In-Kind as a practice is a synthesis of architectural design, workshop and fabrication education, story exploration, material recovery and community development.

I first met Hannah through her collaboration with @everett_creative and their fabulous Morphology project and workshops @soapfactorynewcastle which were part of New Annual 2024 @newannual

Hannah is one of twelve mentors for 2026 including: @hithereclare @danimarti0 @deirdre_bean @h_ollymacdonald
@izabelapluta__studio
@timelesstextiles @jootoole_artist @lezlietilley @michelleteear
@claycanoe and @patricia_wilson_adams #artsmentor #artsmentorship #applynow
Photo Credit: Lee Ifield @livecreativlee

Sound on
Art can be a powerful tool
The making of morphology was a collective outpouring of memories and dreams, an often highly emotional and cathartic experience for the contributors and the audience
A special shout-out to this music writer/ producer @jettybuoy who’s beautiful soundtrack to the piece helped drive the emotionsand engagement
Thank you to everyone who got swept up in the concept and gave back in spades ❤️

Perfect lighting by @_jarod_pak_

A rainy end to the amazing @enlighten_canberra

#enlighten #sculpture #designermaker #furnituredesignermaker #canberra #art #furnituredesign

Celebrating 1 week since we bumped Morphology into this spectacular location in Canberra for the @enlighten_canberra festival!
This powerful shot in front of the Federal High Court was taken by the formidable @edwinajillrichards

There are more events and programming lined up for the last 5 days of the festival, maybe it’s time to take a wee trip to our Nations mighty Capitol?!

@everett_creative
@edwinajillrichards
@newannual
@built_in_kind
@enlighten_canberra

So excited to be part of @enlighten_canberra with our sculpture Morphology
Running until March 10 -come and visit this truely magical lights festival in the nations Capital
@enlighten_canberra
@built_in_kind
@everett_creative

#sculpture #art #designermaker #furnituredesignermaker #furnituredesign #canberra #woodensculpture