KOM

‘KOM’ is a digitally designed and produced craftwork. It is the first demonstration of complex asymmetric four axis CNC milling by the author and is highly innovative due to the complete reciprocity of all aspects of the design and making process.

The facilities and access available to the author at Falmouth University have enabled his innovative engagement with digital engineering hardware needed to create a one-off craft practice. The author’s development of 3D and textural patterning techniques is the unique amalgam of precise digital processes and the reactive ‘hacking’ of automated production processes such as CNC milling.

This particular method and level of engagement is unique in the UK and possibly internationally as most designers and craft makers either have not recognised the impact of this stage of the creation process or have been forced to subcontract their designs when using complex, foreign or expensive processes. The author’s work is championed by the Crafts Council. ‘ST14’ (2007) and ‘Terraincup’ (2005) were purchased for the permanent collection in 2011 supported by Sir Nicholas Goodison (former Chair of the Crafts Council). The objects have been used as to demonstration the pinnacle of digital craft practice at Crafts Council exhibitions. The author gave a public lecture to communicate his creative approach to digital processes at the Northern Design Festival (2013)., ‘KOM’ was purchased by Shipley Art Gallery with the aid of Northern Rock funding after it was exhibited for the first time at ‘Collect’, 2012. ‘Collect’ is an international showcase of Contemporary Craft from high profile Craft Galleries, selected by the UK Crafts Council and located in the Saatchi Gallery, London. The work is on permanent display at Shipley Art Gallery, Gateshead.