Gordon Wight
Background
Gordon was born and raised in Canada. It is not surprising that he has inherited a strong practical streak through both Canadian and English grandfathers, one a boat builder and the other a head gardener on an English country estate. Initially he resisted this heritage and pursued a more academic career. After obtaining a PhD and further study in Europe, Gordon established a successful career as a research scientist with a large multinational.
Designer Maker
A gradual awakening of Gordon's latent practical skills combined with a growing disillusionment with corporate life led to a determination to develop and pursue an alternative career as a designer and maker of contemporary furniture. After obtaining a distinction in a City & Guilds Advanced Craft Certificate in cabinetmaking, Gordon started in a prestigious workshop producing high quality furniture. After a brief period he left to establish his own workshop and pursue his own design ideas. He now works mainly to commission but also produces some speculative pieces.
Hallmarks
Original design and exceptional craftsmanship are key characteristics of his work. His pieces display a sense of movement created by the use of boldly curved shapes or more subtly by the spatial manipulation of linear elements. Many of his designs are inspired by natural forms and often use flowing curved structures to create sensual pieces with an organic feel. In some of his work he uses exceptional skills in marquetry to create bold, stylised images usually inspired by a natural theme. These images have a very clean, contemporary flavour and have been described as 'painting with wood'.
Materials
He works primarily with European and North American hardwoods and uses both solid timber and quality veneers according to which is more appropriate for each design. Ecological issues are important to him and he strongly endorses sensible approaches to using natural resources wisely. This includes supporting the use of timbers from sustainable sources.
Recognition
Gordon's work has been recognized with a Guild Mark and other major national awards. He is an established exhibitor at major international and national exhibitions and examples of his work can be viewed at leading contemporary galleries. His work has featured in the mainstream press and he is an author and contributor to specialised technical magazines. Awards and Major Exhibitions
- Guild Mark - The Worshipful Company Of Furniture Makers, London, 2004
- Certificate in Excellence in Craftsmanship - The Worshipful Company Of Furniture Makers, London, 2000
- 1st place - Furniture & Cabinetmaking/APTE Competition, Professional Category, 1999
- SOFA Chicago, Decorative Arts Exhibition, Chicago USA, 2002
- Celebration Of Craftsmanship & Design, , 1998 - 2002, 2005
- A Celebration of Excellence - The Art of Furniture Making, London, 2005