“Hands of the Father”

Hands of the Father is Anderson’s step into sculptural furniture, designed around the experience of being individually loved, held, and supported by God.

Through material exploration, Anderson uses a firm, sturdy exterior which symbolises being held up, strengthened, and supported, whilst the soft bean bag interior conforms to the individual’s shape, affirming the idea of God supporting us in our idiosyncrasies, individuality, and uniqueness. The hot pink symbolizes the depth and intensity of God’s nurture and love.

Speaking on his own experiences in the church, Anderson says, "I’ve seen religious dogma indoctrinate many into believing that only through adopting a performative religious identity can one earn God’s love. I created this chair to help children affirm the opposite through sensory experience. When we have been conditioned to view ourselves through a harmful lens, it can be difficult to rewire the way we think about our personhood in relation to a being we can’t taste, touch, smell, or see. The chair is designed as an anchor point to remind us that we are held, supported, and loved.”

Anderson hopes that all children who may find themselves in the position of abandonment or neglect by earthly or heavenly parents might feel a sense of comfort and peace about their placement in the Universe, and that their individuality and uniqueness are important in the grand scheme of things.