Copperworks Interview

Simon Christie aka Copper Works is a furniture and household item designer that uses copper and brass.

I came across Simon and his work on Channel4’s art show: The Fantastical Factory of Curious Craft which was hosted by Keith Lemon and I thought it was so amazing and unique!

I spoke to Simon about his use of copper, his experience on the show and how his working routine has changed because of the current worldwide situation. He also left us artists some tips so keep reading!

Nadine: What's your name, where are you from and what do you do?

Simon: My name is Simon Christie. I’m from Glasgow and I make lamps, candle holders, furniture and basically anything I can from copper pipe.

N: I came across your work on Keith Lemon's art show and it was amazing! I had never seen copper used in that way before. How did you get started with copper and chrome? Did you always want to be an artist?

S: Thank you, that’s very kind of you to say. I could not believe I ended up on the show, it was great fun.

I started by accident to be honest. I just finished fitting a new bathroom for my parents to help them out. I’d some spare copper pipe left over and happened to see someone on YouTube make a candle holder from bits of old metal. I thought I could do something with the copper pipe I’d left over and some fitments. I made one candle holder and another, then another, then a wine rack. It was like my imagination went into overdrive with the designs and things I could potentially make. It was a great feeling to come across this outlet without intentionally setting out to make things from copper pipe. I think sometimes that's the best way to create. When you are not trying hard to make it happen, it evolves naturally or by chance.

N: Do you have any hobbies outside of art?

S: I’m a karate instructor, well was, before the lockdowns and restrictions were put in place. I find it very rewarding to help and develop people achieve belts and progress through an alternative way of learning and hopefully applying an alternative set of values to their life. I'm also a keen skier. It never ceases to amaze me the beauty of being on top of a mountain, the feeling of freedom and taking in the surroundings.

N: Walk us through a day in the life of Simon.

S: Interesting question as this has changed over the last year. Also going into this year as with most people and current restrictions. Usually I’d be working on commissions, planning arts and crafts shows, festivals and believe it or not, looking at Christmas venues as they did book out well in advance.

Now my day starts with a cup of tea, my pencil and pad. I’ll make a list of things I want to accomplish and work on. I spend the morning looking at refining designs, learning and looking into new materials and how I can develop what I’m already working with. To the afternoon, I’ve started restoration projects, this being anything from old cars to vintage signage. I find it good to have different projects to keep my mind focused on how to fix or mend things that are not always readily available and the stages of restoration.

I like to wind down in the evening with a daily exercise routine I do to keep fit and clear the mind. I find that very important for mental and physical wellbeing, especially at present and with current social restrictions in place.

N: How do you come up with your pieces? Where do you get your inspiration from?

S: There's two areas regarding that. One, I find that existing designs and ideas can develop and be refined all the time. This can lead to a totally new design or way of making a lamp or wine rack and how they look. What materials can be added to compliment the copper pipe.

Secondly, I like to walk and I get inspiration from everything around me. Buildings, street furniture, looking in shop windows, how things are put together. It may not always come there and then but at a later time. Ideas coming from something that my sub conscious is secretly working on. I’ve had ideas come to me in my sleep from something I’ve seen days ago.

N: Are there ever moments where you don't feel like creating or get "art block" and how do you overcome that?

S: Course, I think if you’re pushing or always looking to create new processes or artworks you can get a degree of frustration as it’s not easy at times. Anyone who has been requested to do a commission or new piece will relate to this. I find designs or ideas and how to start something does not always come easy.

Personally if I get to a point where I feel something is not coming together or a design does not feel right. Rather than try and push through hoping it will work itself out, I’ll stand up, go out for a walk and leave it alone. I’ll try to clear my mind and not think about it. This going back to my second area of inspiration.

N: I've seen one of your beautiful pieces that you created for the all famous, Valentines Day. Do you have any other exciting projects in the works that we can look forward to?

S: Thank you, I always trying to make something a bit different and unique. I think it’s nice to give or received something that's personal, handmade and special where thought has gone into it.

At present, I tend to work on a commission bases with the restrictions and lockdowns where retail outlets and craft fairs are closed unfortunately. I’m working on some new lamps designs I’m excited about.

N: What tips can you give an aspiring artist?

S: If you have a dream or a niggling feeling you want to create, never give up on that feeling. It’s all too easy to give yourself a million reasons not to do something or why it may never work. You may be afraid of what people will think. Question if your work is good enough to put out there? Is this a good time to try something different due to lockdown and social restrictions?

Simply don’t let any obstacle stand in you’re way. I’m a great believer, I’d rather try something and fail so I can learn, than not try at all and never know. What have you to lose, let it flow. Don’t force it and see what exciting paths or journeys could open up for you.

Thank you so much Simon!

Visit: copperworks.artweb.com