In his work Stephen Robinson uses English and European hardwoods, often incorporating stainless steel features endeavouring to combine the clean sharp lines of contemporary design with the quality and skill of traditional craftsmanship.
In aiming to push the boundaries of conventional functionality of design, the aesthetic is as vital to Stephen as object's purpose. He draws inspiration from modern engineering and is fascinated with the underlying configuration of a building, or a bridge, and how the structure that lifts it from the ground supports its weight. Stephen has recently been studying the construction of aircraft and is drawn to the fluidity and aerodynamics of the machine.
It is the design aspect of furniture making that really fascinates Stephen and he is driven by the need to create something unique and totally original. He has worked with wood for over 20 years and, having struggled with dyslexia, is largely self-taught.
Stephen started his working career in 1984 as a professional welder, but it was whilst working at a Cabinet Makers that he realised he wanted to create and design his own work. In 1990 and over the next seven years he established his own workshop in Norfolk. Stephen relocated to Wysing Art Centre in 2002 and now specialises in creating contemporary furniture for both private and corporate clients.