Revealing the hidden ecological biographies of furniture : intervention as a tool to conservation : an exegesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Fine Arts at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Date
2019
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Massey University
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Abstract
This study looks at the growing decline of once common tree species, due to the increasing threat of pathogens globally. As a consequence the availability of once commonly used timbers in furniture making is growing scarce. There is an irony in how many older items of furniture made from these timbers, at a time when they were more readily available, have endured the test of time due to the quality of the materials, and yet are devalued in their second hand state or rendered vulnerable due to poor quality elements. This study looks at the ecological biography of furniture considering what stories are intrinsically embedded within older, discarded or devalued items of furniture and how these items can play a role in future education, engagement and preservation. Using case studies with ecological biographies has enabled me to examine the materials, cost, style and their functionality, which in turn led to the development of an intervention model. Here, I closely examine the level of intervention that is needed to expose the furniture’s story and bring awareness to the value of the material. I explore how embellishments through aesthetic can encourage social engagement and discussion to connect users with narrative. Through traditional and modern craft techniques such as marquetry, illustrator craft and embroidery, my approach aligns to the Arts & Crafts movement. Here I use case study pieces to act as ambassadors in the fight for increased awareness around the vulnerabilities to both threatened timbers and the crafted objects with which they have been historically made. Relegated to charity shops, these forgotten items of furniture require intervention to introduce them to new audiences and provide an identity that helps celebrate and enhance appreciation for the natural qualities of the timbers. "Putting dark stains on beautiful Australian grained timber for the sake of imitating continental dark wood furniture is a crime" (George Korody the Moderns: European designers in Sydney exhibition). Adapting old furniture through inlay work and modern marquetry I tell its ecological biography, aiming to educate the user of the stories or intrinsic qualities that lie beneath dark stain, worn elements or damage. The study looks at breaking down the components of furniture to determine what is considered valuable and what impedes my notion of value. Employing functional pieces of furniture such as a dining room table and chairs as canvases, the user is able to interact with the piece through visual, conceptual, tactile, multi-sensory engagement. The table provides a site for social exchange, thus encouraging conversation that may lead to efforts for conservation/education.