Open Studio... Thomas Carvolth

Mixed Goods Studio. Photo: Connor Patterson

Thomas Carvolth is an inquisitive metal frabricator whose practice is defined by a passion for materiality, history, functionality and design.

We take a look around his studio space at Mixed Goods discussing his practice and inspirations.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I was born and raised in Canberra (Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country), spending my later years living in Queanbeyan NSW. I graduated from ANU as a student in Science (Psychology) and Arts. Now calling Adelaide home, I run a design and fabrication workshop at Mixed Goods Studios. I am also the Production Manager of the Jewellery and Metal Studio at JamFactory.

Thomas Carvolth Tool Box at Mixed Goods Studio. Photo: Connor Patterson.

Thomas Carvolth. Photo: Connor Patterson.

“To me, my tools and equipment are functional forms of art”

— Thomas carvolth

What do you enjoy most about your medium and where do you gain inspiration?

I am a very tactile person by nature and find the process of fabrication and mechanical investigation quite rewarding. I have a deep passion and intrigue for manufacturing processes and have found metal fabrication to be a superb conduit to explore materiality, design, and finish. Growing up I worked with my father in the refrigeration trade, this experience allowed me to develop skills in mechanical service and install, as well as gain an understanding of commercial and industrial engineering. Coupled with an unwavering passion for Australian automotive design, I also worked in classic car restoration shops learning the craft of panel beating and rust repair. Through my experiences, I have found that metal fabrication is such a practical industry with innumerable means of application. For example, welding a chair or replacing the rust in an old Holden requires the same ability, knowledge, and equipment, but ultimately deliver such disparate outcomes. To me, this is quite intriguing, and I find it to be of most utilitarian value. My diversified interests have provided me with significant insight into how things are made, allowing me to have a considered contribution in every step along the design and fabrication process.

You currently occupy a studio space at Mixed Goods Studios; can you tell us a little bit about Mixed Goods and your space there?

Mixed Goods Studios is a multidisciplinary shared studio space, designed as a dynamic craft and design hub offering independent studio spaces to artists, creatives, and design professionals. The studio was established by Andrew Carvolth and Dean Toepfer, who both run their independent practices out of the space.

Mixed Goods is currently home to Danielle Barrie, Sam Gold, Daniel and Emma, and Liam Fleming. To be able to work independently amongst such diverse practices creates a space of opportunity and vibrancy and opens ones own design sense. The space has a constant push and pull of imagery, form and texture, and its influence, whether deliberate or subliminal is palpable. My space is setup for the purpose of metal fabrication. I have been fortunate through the help of friends and mentors to quickly learn what is essential for a functional and efficient workspace. Currently, my space has a 2000x1000 jig table, welding equipment, bench grinders, linishers, a polisher, horizontal bandsaw, and a drill press. This equipment allows me to address most fabrication needs in-house.

I have a sentimental passion for vintage Australian manufacturing, as a result most of my equipment is from the 60-70s and I cherish them dearly. They are made well, have a robust feeling and have been designed in an era where aesthetics and function worked in unison. To me, my tools and equipment are functional forms of art.

What projects are you currently working on?

I’m coming off the back of a busy May in Melbourne, having developed work for clients which made its way to the Melbourne Design Fair. I am currently finalising a few workshop trolleys that I fabricated, whilst also developing some gallery/retail displays to be installed locally.

I’m also doing a lot of research and design away from the welding bench, investigating different fabrication processes and coming up with projects that allow me to implement and learn new skills. For me, it’s important to explore techniques, processes, materials and finishes as it broadens my own capabilities and confidences.

I have recently found myself reverse engineering things, this lets me try new fabrication outcomes, designing items that are useful for the workshop or home. I’m also constantly on the hunt for equipment, supplying myself with the right infrastructure that will open new avenues further in the future. Self-sufficiency and autonomy are important to how I work, this is why I service and repair my own equipment. Currently, I am refurbishing an old Waldown drill.