Au Design

About

DAVID KENNEDY

David Kennedy spent a quarter of a century traveling the world and working in the oilfield industry before settling down back in his native Australia. Now based on Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast's hinterland with partner Daniela, David divides his time between running a successful accommodation business and crafting unique jewellery and gift items.

From his Studio at Witches Falls Cottages, David creates exquisite gold and silver jewellery as well as unique coaster s made from natural Australian materials. Using granite, Mother of Pearl and native timbers such as Queensland Maple and Silky Oak and often adding accents of gold and silver, David cuts and polishes one of a kind coaster sets.

My inspiration to create these exclusive coasters came at a time when I was searching for a typically Australian gift for a client, explains David. Didgeridoos that were probably made in Indonesia and stuffed koalas made in China didn't appeal and I realized there was a market for high quality Australian souvenirs.

David decided to make something that embodied the key elements of Australia. His organic, earthy coasters are the result and are evocative of this sunburned country, of the trees that shade it and the richness of its soil.

Whether I am polishing a coaster or adding detail to a silver pendant, I find the creation process very satisfying. It's very rewarding to form something with your hands and to have a beautiful end product that others admire and are proud to own.

DANIELA KURATLI

Swiss-born Daniela Kuratli's life changed forever the day David Kennedy walked into her office in St. Gallen. Little did she know then, that this chance meeting would lead her to a new life half way across the world in Australia.

Nowadays most of Daniela's time is spent running the couple's successful accommodation business in Australia's Gold Coast Hinterland. Their Witches Falls Cottages property consists of several romantic cottages set in a sun dappled rainforest location. Here Daniela can indulge her love of gardening and nature as she tends to the grounds and to her beloved chickens as well as to the administration side of the business.

However, whenever she finds the time, Daniela loves to look at life through the lens of a camera.

When we have a short break, I love going to the beach. At the moment, Stradbrooke Island is my favourite spot. It is not too far away and is a fantastic place to see and photograph wildlife. In the North Gorge area of the island we normally see turtles, manta rays and dolphins, Daniela says.

I particularly enjoy night photography and time-lapse shots where a picture is taken over the span of 45 minutes to one hour. I use ambient light and have captured some beautiful colours, explains Daniela.

The striking images Daniela produces have been described as a skillful mix of art, colour and light. However, Daniela modestly shies away from praise.

Sometimes it's just nice to get out, take a few pictures and get some fresh air, she says.