Faking It: The Many Guises of Wood

Faking it will examine the fascinating and versatile material of wood in its many guises, from conceptual design and sculpture to the buildings and furniture we see around us and in our homes. An exploration of wood, its science, conservation and status through history and today.

Artist Silke Dettmers will talk about her exploration and fascination with the wonder of wood and the 'fake' in her work, whilst senior Furniture Conservator at the V&A Dana Melchar will explore material surfaces and lacquering methods used to deceive the eye and our perception of the material. Elizabeth Bisley will talk about the V&A’s upcoming Plywood show and its routes in deception of the 'cheap' sheet material dressed as a fancy cabinet through its veneer.