A craftsperson specialised in making unique and functional hand-crafted wooden objects.
Based in East London
He learned his craft at London Green Wood – a cooperative workshop run out of Hackney City Farm. Woodworking started for him as a creative outlet from his career in finance, but that eventually became an all consuming passion.
Traditional and contemporary techniques
Mat mostly uses hand tools. Working in this manner allows him to enter a meditative flow state that connects him with the natural materials he uses.
He switches to power tools (specifically, the electric lathe) when these better suit the work at hand. He sees no issues with using the best tool for the job.
Mat leaves a tool finish on his work that he believes conveys the characters of the timber as well as the maker.
Green Wood
He works with green, locally grown timber which is sourced from the by-products of London’s tree management system. The transformation of wood that would otherwise go to waste into beautiful objects is a large motivational force for him.
Once he has finished shaping the piece, it is carefully allowed to dry. As all the remaining moisture from the tree leaves the timber, the piece will shift and warp in a predictable, but uncontrollable manner. Pieces that were originally turned perfectly round will become slightly oval shaped. Lines that were carved dead straight will curve. The interaction between this natural process and the maker is beautiful and freeing.
Edge tool making
Mat has begun forging many of his own tools. Making bespoke tools for specific purposes opens up different avenues for him, allowing him to explore shapes that were previously unattainable.
By working locally sourced, natural materials with traditional techniques, Mat aims to make unique, beautiful objects that will inspire and connect people and places.
