CHRISTOPHER BOOTS ELEMENTAL
Using elemental materials such as iron, copper, quartz crystal and even gallium, Christopher Boots produces works that combine technical skill with a refined formal sensibility.
Boots references his Greek heritage frequently and foundational themes of Greek thought such as geometry, beauty and mythology permeate his work. His pared down geometries are a tangible manifestation of Greek philosophy's quest to distill all things to their essence, their most elemental. Whether in Euclid’s Elements of geometry or Democritus’ first concept of the atom, Greek thought explored the possibilities of nature’s abstracted and universal essence. And yet this fascination with essence coexisted in a culture that simultaneously embraced the elaborate dramas and narratives of mythology, a contradiction also celebrated by Boots. Just as a fascination with nature’s elemental forms persist from ancient times to now, so does an awareness of the human theatricality that surrounds them.
Christopher Boots graduated from Australia's National School of Design (Prahran, 2005) with a degree in industrial design. An apprenticeship with lighting pioneer Geoffrey Mance followed, leading to a half decade training in various techniques of designing and making lighting. Christopher launched his studio in 2011 and in the short span of time since, has grown to a team of 20 people. He has worked closely with a diverse group of clients and collaborators including Cult, National Gallery of Victoria and Elenberg Fraser. In late 2014 Christopher Boots designed the legendary Hermes holiday windows for both stores on Madison Avenue in New York City. When not traveling, Christopher lives in his studio in Fitzroy, Melbourne.