Originally from Inverness, Simon Baker started working under the name Evergreen in 2012, opening a creative studio in Edinburgh’s old town. Since then, he has collaborated with artists, designers, typographers, illustrators, glassmakers, ceramicists and cabinet makers to create stunning unique pieces which reflect the creative interaction between digital laser technologies and traditional craft.

His favourite material to work with is local wood: whether oak, ash, yew, cherry, larch, sycamore, silver birch or driftwood, each has its own character and unique quality.

Simon has a background in engineering – structural, geotechnical and renewables. He has also worked in building and construction, specialising in forest huts and timber buildings. Skills in drafting, joinery, 3D design and fabrication have served him well in developing both craft and expertise in the laser design and engraving process.

The name ‘Evergreen’ alludes to Scottish cultural history as well as to trees. It is the title of a magazine published by cultural ecologist Patrick Geddes at the the height of the Celtic Revival and Arts & Crafts Movement at the turn of the 20th century, which advocated and celebrated a return to well-made and beautifully hand-crafted goods in place of mass-produced items, a philosophy that inspires us in the 21st century.

Now based in Abriachan on Loch Ness, Simon’s Evergreen workshop is not far from Drumnadrochit where artist George Bain started his College of Celtic Cultures, advocating the study of ancient Celtic and Pictish art - another inspiration for his contemporary laser design creations.

Evergreen is listed on the MAKE WORKS database Scotland.