April 4th – April 29th, 2003
John Bird and Rudy Zator
John Bird
John Bird was born in Vancouver, BC. He first started making furniture in 1993 using second-generation wood from demolished Vancouver homes and buildings. The amount of high-quality wood being thrown away is what originally inspired his interest in combining salvaged materials with contemporary designs.
In 1996 John was one of eleven international students to be accepted tp Parnham College in Dorset, England. Here he had the opportunity to study with some of Europe’s leading furniture designers under the guidance of renowned designer and college founder, John Makepeace. This intense two-year program honed his skills as a furniture maker and enhanced his innovation as a designer.
John returned to Vancouver in 1998. His work has expanded into two creative outlets: John Bird Originals, and Marlet Design.
Rudy Zator
There are two equally important spheres that inform and inspire my work: architecture and sculpture. From an architectural point, my work evokes the elemental and true-to-materials ethos of modernism. With my background as a sculptor it is not surprising that my furniture is envisioned with the mindset of a sculptor. Again, I am influenced by modern works with a formalist esthetic.
The use of reclaimed wood (pallets, fallen logs, demolished buildings) is especially important to me. Finding beauty in the otherwise discarded stock of society is very appealing.
There is also a distinctive Asian influence in my work. The elegance and balance suggest a Zen quality, hence their "Buddhist" titles: Lotus Blossom, Pure Lotus, Reflecting Water.
Opening Thursday April 3rd 6pm-8pm
Circle Craft Gallery - Granville Island Net Loft
