One time concrete form-worker Adrian Olasau has won the inaugural Top New Talent Award, created by professional designers and makers’ body, Studio Woodworkers Australia.
The 30-year-old from Berwick, Victoria took out the inaugural title in Sturt School for Wood’s 2014 graduating class last week. Olasau’s final portfolio, including a dining chair entitled The Reluctant Chair, is showcased alongside works by 11 fellow students in current exhibtion, ASSEMBLAGE at Sturt in Mittagong, NSW. Adrian completed the esteemed one year fine furniture, Certificate IV Furniture Design & Technology.
Overjoyed at receiving the honours, Adrian, who is inspired by Danish design, said the practical hands-on experience he received from teachers, such as Neil Erasmus and David Upfill-Brown, SWA members, has been life altering. Studio Woodworkers Australia includes more than 100 Australian, wood designers, makers and artists, many of whom are internationally renowned.
‘Coming from a non-design background I was quite apprehensive when I started at Sturt about my ability to really tap into my creative side, and design items people would like and enjoy. Having a professional body like the SWA choose me for this award has really been a wonderful vote of confidence as I start out on my design and making career.’
SWA president Phoebe Everill, who presented Adrian with cash and a tool prize generously provided by sponsors HNT Gordon and Colen Clenton, said the SWA’s Top New Talent Award acknowledges the creative work produced by Adrian, and his prospects in moving forward.
‘As designers and makers in the 21st century, one of our first challenges is to find ways to stay relevant, connect with our clients, and make a living from our passion. Adrian’s eye for design and his willingness to push the boundaries with wood, impressed all his tutors. He is a young designer with a very bright future.’
Ms Everill said Studio Woodworkers Australia is intent on rolling the prize out nationally in 2015, and continuing to mentor young designers and makers working in wood.
‘There is an increasing number of Gen Y and Millennials moving into design and making, possibly because they realise working with your hands also feeds the soul. As seasoned professionals, it is the SWA’s aim to help those younger makers find their style, and to design original, cutting edge and handmade pieces that will resonate with the public, and make them household names.’
More information about Studio Woodworkers Australia from www.studiowoodworkers.org.au