VWA inaugural scholarship winner announced

Hannah Cheetham (left) with workshop scholars Gemma Brown and Anna Greaves. Photo: Lee Illfield

The Victorian Woodworkers Association has announced the inaugural recipient of its recently created Vic Wood Scholarship.

Hannah Cheetham is a furniture designer and maker, educator and Masters of Architecture student from Newcastle, NSW. With a varied background working in workshops, construction sites, set building for theatres, assisting fine furniture makers and working in a non-profit organisation that designs and builds architectural amenities for marginalised communities, Hannah now splits her time between her professional practice, volunteering and teaching.

“I have recently started my own workshop practice: Built In-Kind, designing and building bespoke furniture and joinery from sustainable materials for private clients, and teaching people from diverse backgrounds tool and wood-working skills. I still have so much to learn in my craft, but I love sharing where I am at with others – and learning together as we go.”

Hannah will be undertaking a short intensive Japanese joinery class in 2024 by Hiroshi Yamaguchi of Koitoya, ACT. Hiroshi Yamaguchi gained his experience and skills in a traditional, private school in Takayama, Japan, a town famous for its carpentry tradition prior to establishing his business in Canberra in 2015.

The course will provide Hannah the opportunity to develop strong skills in hand tool techniques, particularly using handsaws and chisels to create glue-less joints which can be applied to both carpentry and furniture. These skills will be highly transferable, helping Hannah in her teaching classes to diverse communities without machinery or power tools, broadening teaching opportunities.

Hannah Cheetham and her community focused practice Built In-Kind are featured in the current issue (#120) of Australian Wood Review magazine.