Joe McCowan
There are many infamous characters that you could find down the pub, these stools pay homage to a few of Dundee's legends from the local.
About
'Legends from the Local’ refers to the characters you find down at your local watering hole but also the stories and quirks that come from those pubs.
This began primarily as a research project using some qualitative research methods to gain a narrative of the pub and its people. These research activities were undertaken between two pubs: The Phoenix and the Art Bar.
Alongside doing these research activities, I also got the chance to sit down with some of the regulars. This is where the major inspiration in this project came from; sitting down and having a laugh with these people over a pint. The unique character of these regulars and the jokes and stories that came from them are what informed the barstool designs.
John the Piles’ stool design originated from a joke about him struggling from haemorrhoids as he gets older. He does not actually struggle from haemorrhoids . This stool is just a homage to pub stories and how they can grow arms and legs.
Derek’s stool design was inspired from the way he doesn’t take himself too seriously and will make light of his disability.
Wise John’s stool comes from the character and style of a wise old man who sits at the bar.
Wise John's Barstool
Wise John's Barstool was designed based on his character a Wise Old Fella who sits at the bar and has done for over a decade. His Stool is loosely based on a Chaise Longue and is supposed to give the implication that the person perched upon it is wise and has something interesting to say.
Wise John's Barstool Interview
John the Piles' Barstool
John the Piles' barstool is inspired by a haemorrhoid cushion. This began as a joke between myself and John about him suffering from haemorrhoids that grew arms and legs.
John the Piles' Barstool Interview
Blind Derek's Barstool
Blind Derek's barstool design is based on a traditional Captain's Chair design but has been altered to suit Derek. Derek is a blind regular from the Phoenix Bar who is known across the town for his antics and sense of humour. He has on multiple occasions complimented the elbows of the person assisting him across the road or towards the pub. Sadly I was unable to get an interview with Derek in time due to him jet setting off to Iceland.
I am open to selling these pieces, if anybody is interested, please contact me.