Creating sustainable mouldings from damaged wood from the ancient Tamar Valley

Ex alpinist and bodybuilder, Cornish boat builder and decade-long friend of Emily Lamb, Ryan’s drive comes from a place of curiosity and a motivation to learn what he does not yet know. 

During a blustery but bright early- autumn afternoon we sat cocooned within the cosy walls of a St Agnes cottage, gathered around a wooden table; hands cradling warm coffee mugs, dogs slumbering on nearby sofas and creative conversation flowing. Ahead of the launch of Emily’s new collection, which uses Ryan’s bespoke mouldings to support her work, we speak about his approach to life, his connection to Lamb and Cornwall, and his own personal projects.

How did you meet Emily Lamb and get to know her better?

I met Em over a decade ago in Porthtowan. Both of us had the same morning routine and dog-walking route across the cliffs of Chapel Porth and we used to spend time drinking coffee and strolling beside the coast together.

What were you doing for work at the time?

At the time that I first met Em, I was a Quantity Surveyor and then a Production Manager running a construction company. We built in the region of 100 houses a year and everything was self-funded in Cornwall. I was here for 20 years, but ultimately I knew this wasn’t my purpose, it didn’t light up my soul. 

Where did you work next?

I became self-employed, working a management role for the construction of three large properties in Carbis Bay. Following their completion I went on to renovate a cottage in Mabe Burthhouse, including the full removal of the existing roof covering, many of the roof timbers, and then full reinstatement. Then I did a number of wood burner installations, a camper van conversion and then a number of small building works.

What kind of work gives you a sense of purpose?

Work that forces me to learn, challenges my current ability and skill set. Something that has scope for creativity and is not confined to others' standards.

Could you tell us about your climbing/outdoor activity history and injury?

My zest for an active lifestyle began when I was bodybuilding competitively but due to a surgical procedure, which left me with growths on two levels of the spine, I was unable to continue with this particular athletic venture. With a big void in my life I chose to pursue a goal that came from what was the first book I had ever read, 'Chris Bonington Everest' -  a dream for climbing an unclimbed mountain within the Himalayas. Rock climbing and winter mountaineering all around the UK followed, along with the Alps. The opportunity to fulfil this mountain-sized ambition did arise, and at over 6000m and within less than 20m below the summit, we had to turn back due to the conditions. Returning to Cornwall feeling rather deflated, I returned to climbing the sea cliffs. Not long back equipment failure would see me fall 100ft onto the granite below. 

Could you tell us about your boat?

After healing from my climbing injury and knowing that my body needed rest but my mind needed stimulation, it was a horse or a sailboat that would fill the gap of climbing, I had no experience of either. Purchasing a seaworthy 1969 Conteassa 26 named Zephyrus (in Greek mythology and religion, Zephyrus is the god and personification of the West wind), I set to a complete restoration, keeping only the original GRP mouldings. Despite at times wanting to set fire to it, the restoration continues and is nearing completion.

How did Emily first come to you with the idea of frames?

Em asked me: ‘do you want to build some frames?’ and with 'I've never done that before' not in my repertoire I agreed: ‘Right on, let's do it.’

Can you tell us about the making process behind them?

Adrian, who I once shared my workshop with, created a rough profile. The aspects of this had to be altered and adjusted for the bespoke commission. The wood we use is from the fallen or damaged trees of ancient Tamar Valley. We cut this into slabs, air-dry for a few years and then shape to use.

How are you connected to/ what do you admire about Emily’s Art?

Things that seem impossible always inspire me, and I guess that is it. Realism, abstract, multilayered, challenging colours, multiple images, the feeling of a journey and being drawn to just keep looking.

Could you describe a typical day?

I get up, drink a good gallon of coffee and enjoy a big breakfast. I take my boxer dog, Hope, for a walk to Chapel Porth and back and then I head off to the workshop at an old farm in Blackwater to work on the boat during daylight hours. I hope she will be one of the best-restored examples of a classic boat. I like to end the day at the Blue Bar for a pint of Proper Job. I’ve lived in the area for 13 years, the community here is good and I can usually find familiar faces at Blue Bar.

Where do you find creative inspiration?

The environment around me, especially the coastline. The people I meet, or watch online. Always wanting to learn and staying curious.Those things that seem impossible; the more impossible it seems, the more inspired I am.

Do you have any creative pastimes or hobbies?

A collection; playing guitar, cooking, sewing, photography, and making things from wood. I have some ideas in the pipeline to allow creativity to become a bigger part of my work/life. Let's see where life takes me.

Who are your Creative Heroes?

Ueli Steck, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jonathan Griffith, Donavon Frankenrieter, Ben Howard, My Mum

Inspirational places in the West Country?

A few to choose from: Porthtowan, St Ives Bay, from Godrevy, Dartmoor, in the middle of the North Moor, Cribba Head and Zennor.

What does the next year hold for you?

Deciding on a new direction and chapter, finishing the boat, seeing where the easterly wind takes me. Emily’s Paintbrushes…

Who should we talk to next?

Ryan Newman in 12 months' time.