Graduating students from the Fine Furniture program at Camosun College are showcasing their learning in a public gallery with a display of unique seating they have designed and built.
Fine Furniture students with their Capstone projects
After ten months of learning, sketching, and making sawdust, students in Camosun College’s Fine Furniture program are eager to share what they’ve built. Kick Back! Seating in Western Maple opens at the Arts Centre at Cedar Hill with a reception on June 25 from 7–9pm, and remains free to attend through July 20.
This year’s exhibition showcases the breadth of creativity and craft students have developed in the program’s short but intensive run. There are rocking chairs, folding chairs, and refined loungers; a chair designed for playing music, a chair for children, a beautifully carved bench, and even a praying mantis chair. Students experimented with custom-fabricated hardware in brass and steel, wove seating from seagrass and straw grass, upholstered with materials like corduroy, and more. The result is a diverse tableau of style, technique, and imagination.
“I have to pinch myself to remember where we started, honestly,” says student Rachel Aske, who came all the way from Nova Scotia to study under instructor Sandra Carr. “I’ve become so used to seeing such great work, it’s really exciting to see everyone’s personal styles coming out and how they feel reflective of each person. I can’t wait to share with everyone.”
Guests are encouraged to attend opening night as an opportunity to meet and mingle with students, faculty, and other industry friends—and to admire the work that these students are proud to share with you.
The gallery is open to the public at the Arts Centre at Cedar Hill, which is located at 3220 Cedar Hill Road. Admission is free. Hours vary so be sure to check the website before going.
About the Program
Camosun’s Fine Furniture program offers an intensive 10-month foundation in joinery and furniture making. Students gain hands-on experience in cabinetmaking and furniture construction using both traditional and contemporary techniques. With a strong focus on material knowledge, craftsmanship, and the design process, the program prepares graduates for to enter careers in cabinetmaking, furniture making, and related trades.
Established in 1971, Camosun is one of the largest colleges in British Columbia with campuses on the territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples. For over 50 years, Camosun has been delivering innovative, relevant and applied education, supporting communities, businesses and employers.