Travel and Trade: A Blog for Design Lovers and Adventurers in South Africa and Beyond.
Explore the beauty and diversity of South Africa and its surroundings, and meet the local entrepreneurs and artisans who create amazing products and stories. Travel and trade is a concept that blends tourism and culture, giving you a rich and unforgettable experience in this stunning continent. From architecture to art, from vintage cars to African decor, our blog will inspire you with every post.
A SOUTH AFRICAN MASTER IN WOODTURNING│A PHASES AFRICA DISCOVERY
PHASES AFRICA, ANNOUNCES A DISCOVERY - This South African artist has participated in thirty local and international exhibitions, including major solo exhibitions in London and Johannesburg. Recently he was awarded first place in an international woodturning competition held in the United Kingdom.
His work can be found in several international private and corporate collections and was featured in a bestselling coffee table book, together with thirty of the world’s top woodturners. The artist also strongly believes in supporting the less fortunate by raising funds, through his wood art, both locally and internationally.
African Teak (Kiaat) vase with carved flutes 640H x 375W mm - phasesafrica.com
‘My close association with nature, both as a child and professionally as a wildlife ecologist, has had the greatest influence on my work. I enjoy working with African hardwoods for both small and large projects, especially if I am able to exploit colour, grain and textural contrasts.
Wood represents one of the most beautiful, varied and challenging materials to work with. You can turn it on a lathe, carve, texture, scorch, stain, bleach or bend it. Each time something different and exciting will emerge. On top of this, nature’s agents such as sun, wind, rain, insects and fungi will attack exposed timber and change it into a sculptural opportunity with its own unique colours and textures.
I am able to source my timber from dead indigenous and exotic trees or material that has been discarded from building sites, farms, roads and other projects. What a privilege to work with a beautiful natural product that would often simply be wasted or burnt!’