There are times in life when we all feel a little fractured.
This piece began as a solid block of oak, naturally split and imperfect — a reflection of how life can sometimes shape us in ways we didn’t expect. Rather than hide those flaws, I chose to work with them… to open the piece up and explore what might lie within.
At its core, this clock is built around five hand-formed steel rods, carefully set between the sections. They are not immediately obvious, but they are essential — quietly holding everything together.
To me, they represent something we often forget: that strength doesn’t always show on the surface.
The visible cracks remain. The cuts are deliberate. The structure is exposed. And yet, the piece stands firm — balanced, functional, and complete.
Finished with contrasting hardwood bowtie inlays to stabilise and celebrate the natural movement of the timber, and set on a subtle angled base to give presence and lift, this is as much a sculptural object as it is a timepiece.
“Inner Strength – No.1”
is the first in a series exploring the idea that, even in difficult moments, there is always something within us holding everything together.
A quiet reminder: we are often stronger than we think.
