Tuesday 1 February 2011

Maker of the Week - John Plater


J0hn Plater is a woodturner who works from his home in Brighton producing beautiful vessels.

One favourite living craft maker.
Apart from me, Bert Buri, Sussex Guild Cabinet Maker, nice bloke and lovely work.

What was the last art/craft/design thing you purchased? What one product/item do you really covet?
A pencil drawing from John Amos, local artist. Possibly a bigger lathe and somewhere to put it, so that I can be incompetent on a grander scale !


At age 18 who influenced your style? Was there any individual who very much helped you on your way?
At 18 I was in Teacher Education, the woodturning came later and self taught. Influences are varied but all reflect honesty of design and construction and truth to materials.

What’s currently on your i-pod, cd player, tape recorder?
Muse, Katie Melua and Bryan Adams.

Where and what is your studio?
A shed in the garden at home.



What is your favourite (art) website?
http://www.societyofdesignercraftsmen.org.uk/. A quality site, full of interest.

Surprising activity/hobby?
Landrovers.

Do you have a good work/life balance? Are you able to switch off from art work?
Yes, coming late to design/craft as a “second career” has helped to keep a perspective.



What one word would describe your feeling of doing your work?
Joy.

Do you think art and craft has any real importance?
For me yes, for others – “…in the eyes of the beholder”. They are a significant part of life’s rich tapestry, offering spiritual and cerebral solace.


What do think are crimes against good taste & decency in art/craft/design?
I find conceptual stuff difficult to cope with and dislike elitism.

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