My career as a furniture maker began in Vancouver with a rather ugly box.
One spring day, years ago, my roommate and I needed a receptacle for our recycling. We were conscientious citizens, though poor ones at the time. Thus, we – meaning me – would have to make one.
I had never actually built anything before. However, after a successful trip to the local hardware store, I learned how to cut up rough pine planks with a handsaw, hand-drill holes, and hand-drive screws. The result was an actual functioning box with a hinged lid. It was the most gratifying project I had ever undertaken.
After this experience, I immediately enrolled in a Benchwork and Joinery program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), and I haven’t stopped creating since.
My designs today are the result of fifteen years of learning from many talented and inspiring people, coupled with a deep-seated ethic of caring for our planet.
My goal is to create unique, provocative and functional furniture that doesn’t cost the earth.
View the current Urban Chic Collection
Learn more about Christina’s sustainable process
History
2011
IDS West design show, Vancouver BC
Creation of URBAN CHIC COLLECTION
2010
Government House private collection, St. John’s, Newfoundland – sculpture “Shipwrecked” procured by Lieutenant Governor John Crosbie and wife Jane
2009
Leyton Gallery, St. John’s, Newfoundland – Guests of the Gallery show
Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador – “400” group show
Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador – Annual Members’ Exhibit
2008
Represented by TU Gallery in Edmonton, Alberta
2007
Finalist in HGTV’s Handyman Superstar Challenge
Anderson Ranch Arts Centre, Snowmass, Colorado – two month artist residency
2006
Emma ’06 International Collaboration, Big River Saskatchewan
2005
Anderson Ranch Arts Centre, Snowmass, Colorado – scholarship for Japanese Joinery workshop
1997 – 2005
Created bespoke commission pieces of furniture for discerning clients
1995 – 1997
British Columbia Institute of Technology – apprenticeship in Benchwork and Joinery
1995
Made her first ugly box
University of British Columbia – Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature
