Katrina Ramm’s creative process often begins with an idea, a shape or something that catches her attention. Through sketching and exploring different possibilities, she gradually refines her ideas before developing them digitally, working through proportions and details until the design feels resolved. She recognises that it can be easy to overthink a design, so stepping away and returning with fresh eyes is an important part of her process.

This body of work grew from an exploration of geometric shapes, contrast and balance across both functional and sculptural forms. Inspired in part by Memphis totem designs, Ramm was drawn to the possibilities of stacking geometric shapes and contrasting tones to create sculptural bookends, while continuing to develop forms explored in her wider practice.

The making process involved selecting timber offcuts and cutting and gluing them into different shapes and components. Some pieces were assembled from smaller strips to create striped elements, while others, including a striped post, were turned on the lathe. Once the components were ready, Ramm experimented with different combinations, rearranging and stacking the pieces until she was happy with the overall composition. The final forms were joined using dowels and glue.

The finished works differ slightly from the original digital designs, as working directly with the timber allowed Ramm to respond more intuitively to the shapes and relationships between the physical components.