‘Stillness Daybed’ marks the commencement of a collaborative range of inspired pieces that pairs Fry’s immaculate timber craftsmanship and Taylor’s delicate and tactile textile practice. This collaboration developed from their mutual interest in the place of solitude and contemplation as an integral part of the lived artistic experience; the creative process and its underlying stillness. 

Through his life as a passionate surfer, Fry has experienced extended periods of solitude in some of the most remote corners of South Australia’s isolated coastlines. His excellence in designing and making is recognised for its subtle yet immense detail, structural integrity and fine beauty. Fry’s work is a direct reflection of his affinity with the forms of nature, its precision and completeness. 

The time-intensive and repetitive nature of Taylor’s wrapping, weaving and knotting, bring an inherently mindful and meditative quality to her making process and wonderfully tactile furniture and soft-sculptures. She seeks to create soft, gentle and playful textiles that engage the senses with visual and physical texture. 

A common thread shared by Fry and Taylor within their identities is their daily aspiration to find time to quietly go within oneself. This intention is approached from a holistic perspective; to allow the day to day pressures of life to float to the background, focusing on one’s breath to become centred in a meditative state.

Recognizing the invaluable process of pairing their diverse disciplines and design approaches, Fry and Taylor have created a functional design that encourages tranquillity within the space the piece inhabits; as it encourages one to pause, slow down, through the simple act of being still. 

The daybed is crafted from American White Oak, encompassing a light emanating spindle backrest which effortlessly supports the organically hand-shaped crest, where forms flow seamlessly from simple to complex. The upholstering features a pure new wool and linen cushion, edged with flat piped seams, that have been bound to the frame. The repeated wrapping of the woven linen tape fixes the cushions in place whilst visually contorting the cushions into a floating form that immediately conjures thoughts of serenity and draws one to breathe peacefully. Fry’s immaculately refined design and flawless finish is complimented by Taylor’s wrapping and playful textile forms.

- Darren Fry and Ivana Taylor