David Trubridge

David Trubridge is an innovative furniture designer based in Havelock North, New Zealand. His work is produced in New Zealand using only natural materials in order to reduce the effect on the environment [1].

Biographical background

David Trubridge graduated from Newcastle University in England in 1972 with a degree in naval architecture (boat design). In 1981 Trubridge and his family set sail around the Caribbean and Tahiti for four years, making a living as needed by building furniture for expatriates on the islands, using the facilities and materials available to him. They eventually settled in Havelock North, New Zealand. He is a self-taught furniture maker, developing his own designs, which he has exhibited around the world.

Environmental influence

Trubridge has had a long-standing passion for the environment, deepened by his time at sea. In 2004 he was selected for the Antarctica New Zealand program, which allowed him to spend several weeks in Antarctica. This experience inspired Trubridge to continue to find ways to live that would not impact negatively on the earth. In 2007, Trubridge was given the Green Leaf Award for artistic excellence, presented by the Natural World Museum and the United Nations Environment Program, celebrating his commitment to inspiring and engaging the public in environmental awareness and action. This quote from Trubridge sums up his philosophy: "I work within the limits of what I have and know, simplicity and low impact, natural materials and processes, leaving a delicate footprint."[2]

Awards and exhibitions

Trubridge has exhibited his work widely, both within in New Zealand and around the world. He has had works commissioned for London's Victoria and Albert Museum, exhibited at the Milan furniture fairs as well as the International Contemporary Furniture Fair and taught at the Vitra summer design school in Milan. Notably, in 2007, Trubridge received the John Britten award, New Zealand's highest design recognition. Martin Sidoruk, speaking for the DINZ Council, said, "David is a true advocate of New Zealand's design industry, speaking regularly overseas and mentoring young designers, while at the same time achieving international success and recognition for his incredible designs."[3]

Notable works

'Body Raft 98' was designed for a national exhibition called 'Furniture in Context' for the Hawkes Bay Cultural Trust, which later traveled to the Dowse Art Museum. A second version of the Body Raft was shown at the 2001 Milan furniture fair, where Italian firm Cappellini purchased the design for manufacture. This developed his role as an internationally known designer. Body Raft was also included in the book Eco Design- The source book where it is described as "Local Wych Elm is bent with steam to create a frame to which further curved lathes are attached. This organic shape is visually appealing."^[1] In 2007, a large selection of lights designed by Trubridge were used in London's Oxford Street by Top Shop for the launch of their new ʻKate Mossʼ collection.

References

1. ^ Fuad-Luke, Alastair. Eco Design- a source book. Revised. London: Chronicle Books, 2004.

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