icture a world without culture, without Art, without diversity, character or choice. The image may be a little "Orwellian", but the view, from one who has applied a lifetime trying to define the difference between Industry and Art, can seem very stark. Kim Bellette has seen, in the space of one generation, the gradual degradation of both design and construction skills and can only wonder at the outcome. With the trend for mass produced designs being given priority over artistic merit, authentic quality construction, cultural significance and diversity, he can only feel that we are leaving ourselves a little vulnerable. At the very least, our skill base will be the worse for this lack of diversity. The very words "mass production" and "art" seem to be at odds, but we see this gradual manipulation of the market promoting inferior designs and products, already self perpetuating because of the lack of skills and knowledge. It is not too hard to see the outcome, with the popularity of "Artworks" decreasing as they are no longer recognised as significant and unique, with the terms "Art" and "Cultural" seen as cheap throw away trinkets devoid of imagination, class, pleasure and inspirational beauty. As a third generation artist craftsman, Kim Bellette feels obliged to resist this trend and keep diversity and choice alive. Having spent most of his career working for the Antique trade, reproduction trade and private sculptural commissions, it seems the most logical step to reverse this trend is to produce and promote works of such significance and diversity that the difference will be noticed and appreciated, giving the power of choice back to the consumer. In essence, you get what you want, not what a retailer wants to sell you. His work and designs consist of Classical, Contemporary and Conservation. The contemporary pieces are based on the timeless Classical design principles, giving the consumer their own unique design with the beauty, elegance and character of a past age. The consumer can follow any individual theme or interest in mind and develop it further, or simply replicate any number of Classic unobtainable Museum pieces selected for their unique and exquisite perfection in design, production technique and historic significance. The materials used, technical production techniques and finish are based on the original classics, with the client given the choice of technological advances if they so desire, giving the beauty and character of an antique, without the repair cost. His pieces are for those who recognise and value excellence in design, quality materials and workmanship that is not just aesthetically pleasing, but a lifelong investment. Collectors series and Museum pieces come with a certificate of authenticity, with materials used documented and signed by the maker. Premium one of' works of Art also come with a signed guarantee that they will not be ever replicated by the maker, with the investor presented with the design drawings and patterns. Kim Bellette does not take shortcuts and prides the time spent on each piece, so no item will leave the studio until all design and technical details have achieved the required exacting standards. What we do:   ~ Functional works of Art and Investment Pieces ~ Museum Piece Reproductions ~ Sculptures in Wood or Bronze ~ One Of' Works of Art ~ Collectors Series ~ Theme and Period Decorations ~ Contemporary Australiana ~ Woodturning ~ Architectural Fittings and & Fireplaces ~ Conservation of Antiques ~ Copies of Divided Sets/Split Estates Copyright © 2008 Kim Bellette