In an era where the cost of building materials is soaring, with complex supply chains stretching across distant origins, the challenges are twofold: delays and an amplified carbon footprint. But what if we could source materials much like we do with local, organic food? Enter the concept of “Locavores of Making.”
Bronwyn Harm and Dr. Mike Epworth, artist-designers hailing from the scenic Mt. Coolum area, bring this innovative idea to life in collaboration with Barns Lane Farm.
Their creative journey began with salvaging timbers from an abandoned farmhouse right on our site. From this reclaimed wood, they meticulously crafted the first of a limited series of ‘Barnes Lane’ Jimmy Possum chairs. What makes these chairs truly special is not just their hyper-local sourcing but also the sustainable approach in their creation.
Bronwyn and Mike take craftsmanship to heart, carving the chair components by hand, under the shade of a majestic fig tree in their garden. This manual approach not only imparts a unique touch to each piece but also saves electricity, aligning perfectly with the principles of sustainability.
Their resourcefulness doesn’t end there. They’ve gathered wall-boards, floor-boards, rafters, batons, and even the occasional piece of discarded furniture. These materials are carefully examined to reveal their natural and most robust qualities, ensuring each piece is a testament to both craftsmanship and sustainability.
One might wonder about the comfort of these handcrafted chairs. Jason, who has experienced their cozy embrace, can vouch for their comfort. The secret lies in the intricate hand carving, creating a flat surface that cradles your back with care.
But Bronwyn and Mike’s mission extends beyond their artistry. They generously share their chairmaking skills through workshops, where participants have the unique opportunity to learn while co-creating their very own Jimmy Possum chair. It’s a beautiful blend of creativity and education, fostering a deeper connection to the art of craftsmanship.
So, as the world grapples with the challenges of material sourcing and sustainability, Bronwyn Harm and Dr. Mike Epworth exemplify a vision of making that’s not just local—it’s a celebration of artistry, sustainability, and community. Together, they invite us to rethink how we create and connect, one handcrafted chair at a time.
If you are interested in commissioning one of the limited edition ‘Barnes Lane’ chairs or you want to learn the fundamentals of chairmaking by co-creating your own Barnes Lane chair contact Bron and Mike: [email protected]