Alexander Berchert

Atelier D'offard

Furniture maker

From wood comes movement

Alexander enjoys collaboration with other artisans
His favourite materials are wood, leather and brass
His biggest challenges in his craft are durability and longevity

Alexander Berchert is a kinetic sculptor, woodworker and furniture maker who merges his dual passion for engineering and woodworking to create high-end, mechanical games. Creative from a young age and with a background in graphic design and illustration, Alexander discovered his love for sculpture during the third year of his Fine Arts degree at university. Drawing inspiration from everyday life, ranging from architecture and cars to toys and nature, Alexander works primarily with wood, leather and brass. Once an idea takes hold, he thoroughly researches and prototypes it before sourcing materials and bringing it to life. Today, he operates from his own small workshop, nestled in the Cotswolds. Notably, Alexander was commissioned by FedEx, a sponsor of UEFA Euro 2020, to build a chain-reaction machine, also known as Rube Goldberg machine, for a commercial.

Interview

Do you master any specific technique?: I am very proficient in all aspects of woodwork but would not say I mastered them. That is for other people to decide. I do consider myself a good problem solver and engineer, as my kinetic work often comes with challenges that you do not find in other media. I am inspired by Rube Goldberg machines, physics and the relationship between objects.
Is it important for you to use recycled materials?: Using a renewable resource such as timber as my main medium means my work maintains a level of sustainability. Working in wood allows me to recycle material often and prevent waste.This is something I consider very important.
What stories or messages are you trying to convey through your work?: I produce art that is made to be played. My main aim is to invoke feelings of nostalgia and joy in the viewer. By redesigning classic childhood games into stylish, analog and mechanical pieces of art, I hope to bring back the joy of play to everyone, no matter our age.
Do you think your craft could be replaced by technology?: Fine woodwork takes time and many different processes to produce a finished piece. Craftsmanship will always be craftsmanship. Technology cannot replace what I do. In fact, I am turning high-tech, electrical games into low-tech, mechanical pieces. Someone described my pinball machine as pinball for the Amish!

Alexander Berchert is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2012