https://www.instagram.com/foxyfine_furniture/
The moment I saw Thomas Fox’s work, I knew I this was a young man with a passion for creating beautiful, tactile objects. I was taken by the simplicity of his plant stands, the careful joinery and ingenious design which allowed it to be packed flat and reassembled in seconds. I found myself drawn to his exquisitely crafted coffee tables and inlaid cutting boards. Online, I discovered that he also created larger furniture pieces like sofas and desks, always maintaining a balance between form and function. I bought one of his larger plant stands, which fits perfectly in a gap between some bookshelves and a cabinet in my lounge. It brings me much joy to see a well-crafted object add to the aesthetic of the space I in which I live.
What struck me most, when meeting Thomas Fox, was his youth. Much older men who have had a lifetime of practice normally work with wood at this level of competence. Thomas looked to be in his 20s and was deeply passionate about his craft and wanting to make a living from it. When I suggested a retail outlet she should approach, he replied it was a place he was aspiring to, but wanted to perfect his craft before he approached them. I thought he was much too modest.
I kept thinking about this young man and wondered why he had captivated me. I realised it was his passion for his art and that he was willing to put everything on the line to live an authentic life. On Instagram, I discovered he had given up his day job for this dream. That was well over a year ago, and he is still working on what he loves best. I thought about his courage and determination, his work ethic and belief in himself. I realised then that I had much to learn from the way this young man lives his life with purpose.
There was also a thread running back to my late partner, Roger, who was a self-taught carpenter. In fact, we met over a handsome chest that he sold me here in Canberra many years ago now. He also made beautiful tables which he sold at markets. He was never happier than when he had a piece of wood in his hand and an idea of how to transform it. The moment I met Thomas, I knew what Roger would have said. It was as if he were standing by my side. Roger would have congratulated him, taken his card, and immediately set about to drum up business for him. That was the kind of man he was.
I am now seriously thinking of commissioning Thomas to make me a desk. I saw the photo of one he made for a customer, which was simple, stylish and yet a little quirky. That ticks all the boxes for me. I also know that if I wait too long, I won’t be able to afford his work. This is an artist who is going places.
From Quill to Quote 