You know us, we have a thing for unique DIY lamp designs. This is why we decided to start a new series of “Meet the Maker” interviews, where we talk with crafters, artists and designers about their unique lighting fixtures to find out where they get their inspiration and how they work their magic.
Summer is just around the corner, so with that in mind, we’re starting our series with an interview that will make you start planning for a beach holiday. In our first interview of the “Meet the Maker” series, we talk with Jan Dickers, an Australian-based artist experienced with colored pencil, watercolor paper making and who uses driftwood to create coastal-themed beautiful lamps and home decor. She’s bringing home her love of the ocean, finding ways to highlight the intricate and natural texture of driftwood through practical and artsy home decor elements. Jan is giving timber a chance to tell its story.
If you’re thinking about adding additional natural elements in your home decor, a driftwood lamp could be a good start. Read below to learn more about Jan’s process.
Before we get started, here's something to set the tone:
Picture via @jandickers
Q: How did you first get the idea of using driftwood as a base for your lamps? When did it all begin?
Jan: During a boating trip to a local island, I noticed so many great pieces of timber on the beach. I have always loved beachcombing so it went from there.
Picture via @jandickers
Q: What is it that you find so fascinating about working with driftwood?
Jan: Every piece is different, colors, textures, grain and feel.
Q: What makes a proper driftwood base for a lamp? Do you have certain things you look for when selecting driftwood?
Jan: I look for the character, if the timber has a story to tell. Such as its origin, the time it has been in the ocean.The worm holes, the barnacles all add to the feel. It has to withstand being drilled for the fittings. My favorite timber is mangroves roots, in Queensland they are protected, so we are not allowed to collect them ourselves. I had to find a licensed collector.
Picture via @jandickers
Q: What’s the biggest challenge of making driftwood DIY lamps?
Jan: Sourcing the timber, not being able to get out on the boat due to time and weather constraints.
Q: What is your favorite DIY driftwood lamp?
Jan: My favorite lamp so far is a mangrove lamp with a beautiful root structure, teaming up with a shade that enhances that is satisfying.
DIY driftwood lamp by Jan Dickers
Q: Do you have a favorite fellow crafter or artist that inspires you?
Jan: Susie Wren inspired me with her use of beautiful fabrics on her shades, my favorite artist is John Lovett, I love his use of color in his work.
Driftwood lamps via @jandickers
You can see more of Jan’s driftwood art on her website, at www.coastalthemedart.com. Follow her on Instagram to get more coastal inspiration.
