Networking Opportunities

2025 Residency Programme: An Exploration of Curves

We are offering an exciting and unique opportunity to work alongside two absolute world class experts in the field of bending wood – Yuri Kobayashi & David Haig. This residency offers six uninterrupted weeks developing skills and techniques in relation to designs incorporating elements of curvature.

It is Intended for makers with enough previous experience to work independently as woodworkers but it is not necessary to have had previous experience in bending or curvature techniques.

This programme is focused on refining designs and developing techniques rather than creating finished pieces of work in the time frame. Although we will require participants to bring an idea of what they might like to develop or how they wish to incorporate curvature into their projects, we also recommend participants come with an open mind, and be prepared to modify or alter their designs in consultation with Yuri and David.

The programme will run with Yuri & David both being available in the morning sessions with afternoons being self-directed. Yuri & David will work on a collaborative piece when not teaching, but will incorporate demonstrations and discussions throughout the programme as well as one to one consultation with each student.

The programme will explore:-

• Design inspirations

• Both Yuri & David’s individual approach to design

• Developing a design – model making, drawing, mock-up

• Testing and problem solving

• Discussions and interactions with the whole group – there is much to learn from observing what your colleagues are working on.

• Steam Bending and the necessary equipment, both low and hi-tech .

• Kerf Bending, Laminating, and Hot Pipe Bending will be covered too.

• The options available for steam bending applications – single plane curves, reverse curves and multi-plane bending

• Creating forms and jigs

Whilst Yuri & David work on their collaborative project, Lou Fuller, our resident senior tutor will be available where required.

This is a rare opportunity to work alongside and learn from two absolute experts in the field of bending wood who are both highly esteemed makers and educators. Yuri & David, as well as producing extensive bodies of their own work, have taught together at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Maine, USA where Yuri is currently the Lead Fellow in the prestigious Fellowship programme, but also teaches in colleges and institutions throughout the USA. David has also taught at the CFC many times and has also worked in their Fellowship Building as a visiting Artist in Residence. Their differing techniques and approaches to bending most definitely complement each other, whilst offering participants a unique and exciting opportunity to immerse themselves and develop their design awareness and skill level.

WHO CAN APPLY ?

This programme is open to any woodworkers and former students who are confident enough with basic woodworking machinery to prepare their own materials as they require.

Please note that applications received from both professional and non-professional makers will be given equal consideration.

The closing date for all applications is 31st August 2024 and places will be offered mid September. If you are offered and accept a place on the programme you will then be required to pay a 25% non refundable deposit which will hold your place until the balance of the course fee which is due on 1st December 2024.

Please submit the following documents with your application:-

• Completed application form

• A brief statement of why you wish to participate and what are you hoping to achieve out of it?

• A proposal / outline with your initial ideas as to your project. Please nogte they do not have to be finalised at this stage.

• Images of work you have done that support your application. This can include any written material supporting the work, if you so wish.

• A letter of recommendation from a person vouching for you as a maker/woodworker.

• Images of a minimum of three pieces of completed work to support your application which clearly demonstrate your skill level. This can include any written material supporting the work if you so wish.

• Link to your Website/Instagram/Facebook or any other platform which promotes your work (if applicable).

• Any other material you feel is relevant to your application.

Course Dates: 13th January - 21st February 2025

Course Fee: $8995 plus materials

Learn More: https://www.cfw.co.nz/all-courses/dovetail-box-making-crn3j-gyrjd-m64xk

The Great Lakes Chapter of the Society of American Furniture Makers meets twice a year at the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute. Learn more about their organization and events at sapfm.org.