Karyo Rocking Chair

Project Info

Pushing the boundaries of steam-bent construction, the Karyo Rocking Chair exudes lightness and flexibility. Made from fast-growing ash, this perfectly proportioned, symmetrical form offers a fun, sprung seat.

The frame is fabricated by steaming and wrapping a three-metre length of green ash around two moulds before being clamped, then kiln dried to consolidate the profile. The subtly curved slats are pre-shaped prior to steam-bending over a large, radiused mould. The locally-sourced ash timber – selected for its unique bending qualities – was felled due to the recent ‘ash die-back’ disease.

The complex bending techniques that underpin this piece were developed during a collaborative four-week making residency in Wales. After which, additional months were spent refining the process and bending choreography in order to realise the final design. Named after the process of Karyokinesis – where a single cell divides into two – the Karyo Rocking Chair celebrates the creative possibilities of our native hardwoods.

With support: Creative Scotland – Four Nations International Fund