Hugh Smith
3D Technician, 3D Fabrication workshop
Professional furniture designer-maker Hugh can be found working in the 3D workshop on Saturdays where he is keen to help students realise their creative projects.
3D Technician, 3D Fabrication workshop
Professional furniture designer-maker Hugh can be found working in the 3D workshop on Saturdays where he is keen to help students realise their creative projects.
During the week I am busy running my own company designing and building high end bespoke furniture to private and commercial clients in Norfolk. As a small business I am lucky to be part of the whole design process: from defining the specification with the client; through design and refinement; to sourcing materials and the production of the finished piece. It’s challenging work. At all points I’m seeing the process through the eyes of both a designer and a maker – it’s a careful balance: how the piece should look and how this can be technically achieved. I believe this holistic viewpoint is a useful starting point to help students achieve their creative visions here in the 3D workshop.
After studying Marine Biology to Masters level and working in the offshore industry I had the opportunity to pursue my creative ambitions and studied furniture making at the prestigious Rowden Atelier in Devon. The creative buzz, supportive environment and mentoring relationship I experienced at this formative period have stayed with me and inspired me to become part of the team at Norwich University of the Arts. I find working with students here a truly rewarding experience: each week I look forward to witnessing all the vibrant creations they produce and I find their enthusiasm motivates me in my own practice.
3D Technician, 3D Fabrication workshop