PHOTOS: Denver Hendricks | PRODUCTION: Cornelia Badenhorst | WORDS: Mirelle Leyden
Sculptor and tree surgeon Adam Birch is living proof of the powerful effect that a name can have on one’s destiny.
It was while studying graphic design at the University of Stellenbosch that Adam realised his creativity and passion for design would best be harnessed by a more hands-on approach to art. Wood sculpting therefore became his part-time creative outlet.
Although he didn’t let go of the dream of one day becoming a full-time sculptor, like most fresh-out-of-varsity youngsters, Adam was told to find a “proper job”.
It was during this time that a friend introduced him to tree surgery. The knowledge that a near-death experience would inevitably form part of his daily routine got this adrenaline junkie hooked.
“When you’re 11m high, hanging at the mercy of a harness while trying to manoeuvre a chainsaw through a stubborn branch, you can’t help but ask yourself, ‘Am I really getting paid to have so much fun?'” Adam says with a grin.
The process of learning more about wood, its strengths, and its composition soon lured him back to wood sculpting. So, after cutting down dead branches, Adam brings them back to life in his innovative sculpted wooden chairs.
“I’m intrigued by organic shapes found in nature, such as bulls’ horns, hence the shapes of my chairs. But when creating functional pieces of art, I think they should be as comfortable as they’re beautiful. I constantly keep that in mind when designing.”
Adam’s chairs can be found at the Light Gallery in Simon’s Town.
Light Gallery: 021 786 5877
