Bold carvings, smooth colours
- Donald’s creations are carved with a deep appreciation for the subtleties of nature
- A combination of curves and colour are his signature design
- His work showcases mastery of hand-carving, texturising and distressing
Donald Baugh's journey with woodwork began with a visit to the renowned Biennale exhibition in Venice, where he became so inspired by the artistry of the wooden pieces he saw, that he set a change in motion in his professional life. Childhood memories of Jamaica, the land of wood and water, are a starting point for many of his creations. Today, trees inspire new pieces, too. Masterful teachers guided Donald's learning and work at Rycotewood College and during his degree in 3D Furniture Design at Middlesex University. "The environment is a constant source of motivation for my work," he says. Every piece is instilled with a connection to the inherent beauty of wood and the expertise of the hands that hold it.
INTERVIEW
It began when I stumbled across the Biennale during a visit to Venice. I had never been in an environment quite like it before. I was fascinated and inspired all at once. Being exposed to that amount of creativity informed my love of furniture design.
I appreciate the beauty of trees and the unpredictability of the grain. I also love how the wood responds to the environment it exists in, expanding, contracting, or losing moisture depending on where it resides. For me, wood never dies.
I started with traditional elements through my education. Once these skills were mastered, I felt free to add my personal style. I take a lot of inspiration from Jamaica, a place I spent time in whilst young, whose colours, shoreline and natural environment are striking.
Creating each piece involves a lot of emotion. Once I have finished a piece, however, I totally detach emotionally as I am already thinking about moving on to the next one.
