He can trace the origin of the source of all the woods he works with which is of utmost importance in an increasingly ethical and eco conscious market.

They are naturally dyed using water filtration systems and also coloured using milk based paints. Following the same practices as an accomplished chef would do with regional and seasonal produce, Roussel strikes good relationships with his suppliers seeking the best in sustainably resourced materials.

He uses Birch from Finland, Cork from Portugal & Maple from North America. The idea of 'terroir' can be applied to craft. One area for the future that he aims to develop is to source more locally.

All the precious metals that are incorporated into Roussel’s designs have been sourced from suppliers that mine legitimately.

Process

A light-weight, strong and robust material, wood offers the maximum possibilities in terms of construction and wearability. Patiently bonding very thin layers of birch, maple, ash, sycamore & walnut, Roussel is able to create astonishingly beautiful forms. This humble material is then lasered sealing the edges of the wood and releasing the natural oils while removing any possibility of splinters.

The milk based paints applied to the material are completely natural, odourless and non allergic.

Technology

Anthony Roussel’s pursuit of pioneering advancements in contemporary craft has led him to experiment with the latest in digital technologies. Having been mentored by those at the cutting-edge of digital applied arts such as Tavs Jorgensen and Jo Hayes Ward, he has specialised in applying new ways of working with wood.

Roussel has been recognised for his use of technology by winning the Innovation prize at the 10th Inhorgenta design podium awards 2009 in Munich.

Roussel works with 3D Software, CNC routing & milling machines, laser cutting/etching, water jet cutting & rapid prototyping.

He has worked closely with the Autonomatic research cluster at University College Falmouth as part of the Hidden Art ‘making it digital’ programme where he first experimented with milling technologies.

He is fascinated with the infinite possibilities that these new technologies bring to contemporary craft, but also how a designer’s physical input is still as important today as it ever was. The use of these processes is a true reflection of Roussel’s place within modern design.