Tell us a little about your artistic practice, and what you’ll be making for this year’s Lexus Design Pavilion. 

I’m an artist and sculptor, working primarily in coloured concrete. I create both artworks and commercial pieces. 

I add oxides and pigments to concrete wet mix to add vibrant colours. I then layer the colours on top of one another to create pieces that are reminiscent of the Australian landscape. 

For the Lexus Design Pavilion, I will be creating two coloured concrete tabletops, which will be my largest creations yet. They measure 1200 x 3600 mm each, and will be used as dining tables in the marquee. 

What were your key influences for creating your tables? 

I’m based in the Pilbara in Western Australia, and so I take constant inspiration from the warm colours of the salt lakes and claypans here. I’ve also taken inspiration from cross sections of cliff faces and aerial views of the Australian outback. That’s why I’ve chosen a warm colour palette for the tables. 

What are you hoping guests of the Lexus Design Pavilion will take away from your pieces? 

I want the guests to enjoy interacting with something precious and valuable. Normally, art is hung on walls in white, sterile galleries. But in the Lexus Design Pavilion, you can feel how smooth it is, and because it’s in the dining room, guests can literally eat on top of [it]! 

I also want people to see something uniquely Australian. I want the guests to be inspired by my work and the other Australian artists and creatives who I’m collaborating with in the marquee. 

How does your artistic practice or philosophy tie in with the Lexus commitment to craftsmanship, or Takumi? 

I hope in some way that I embody the Takumi ethos. In the early days of my career, I spent many years refining my skills in making concrete pots and homewares. It was very physical work. Repeating a process this many times certainly fine-tuned my skills and knowledge of concrete, oxides and pigment. 

In a way, I also see my creative process aligning with that of Lexus because of my commitment to continuous innovation, and how I constantly push the boundaries to create new pieces that inspire and delight people. 

What does the Melbourne Cup Carnival mean to you, and how does it feel to be part of it in such an intimate way? 

I’m honoured to be invited to contribute to this space, and to work for such a recognisable brand. The Lexus Design Pavilion is a wonderful platform to showcase creativity and innovation, and Australian creativity in particular. I hope people come to the Lexus Design Pavilion and feel inspired by the wonderful Australian designs.