Tony Drawbridge was always creating things as a child, though "sometimes it was just mischief". Now the prop and model maker gets to create things for a living, working on a diverse range of projects with Miramar-based company Izzat Design. While working on King Kong, the company made everything from rocks to rubbish to - poo. Although he was described by Time as the film's "hero poo-maker", the props he most enjoyed making were a little more elegant...Tony Drawbridge was always creating things as a child, though "sometimes it was just mischief". Now the prop and model maker gets to create things for a living, working on a diverse range of projects with Miramar-based company Izzat Design. While working on King Kong, the company made everything from rocks to rubbish to - poo. Although he was described by Time as the film's "hero poo-maker", the props he most enjoyed making were a little more elegant...During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?
In the morning and just as I am about to drop off to sleep in the evening.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?
Scruffy Chic.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?
Concept development right through to delivery.

You've made some unusual props in your time, including a giant poo for King Kong. Which has been the most fun to make and why?
Art Deco building details (foyer clock, light fittings, etc) for the Empire State Building set in King Kong - I love Art Deco.

How did you get into prop and model-making?
Finished a degree in product design in 1995, then started working at Weta Workshop. Didn't look back from there -

What's the biggest challenge your company Izzat Design has faced?
Getting started and not getting the speed wobbles.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?
Creating extinct bird species for Blood, Earth, Fire at Te Papa.

What advice would you give to aspiring model-makers?
Go for it, but always wear a mask.

Describe how the way you played as a child has influenced how you work as an adult.
I was always creating things as a child, sometimes it was just mischief. I still feel a bit like a child, as my line of work means I do get to create things every day.

How do you think your environment affects your work?
Our workshop is right on the edge of the beautiful Wellington harbour. The view is always changing.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?
It depends which hat I have on - Generally the big picture, but I do like the detail.

Who or what has inspired you recently?
MOMA in New York City. Seeing the 'REAL' thing.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?
Something creative, maybe a chief or a plastic surgeon.

What place is always with you, wherever you go?
Island Bay, Wellington.

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?
With friends and a few drinks.

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?
A piece of jewellery. That's one of my passions but I rarely get a chance to make any jewellery at the moment.

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?
If it's broken and it can be fixed, then don't worry about it. If it's broken and it can't be fixed, then don't worry about it.

What's your favourite word?
Sweet as (others may say it's 'Fuck').

What's great about today?
It's sunny.

Interview by Cass Hesom-Williams

31/7/07

To get up close and personal with some of Izzat Design's creations, check out the current Pulse! exhibition at TheNewDowse. During their exhibition Becoming King Kong the Pulse! programme is dedicated to showcasing artist innovations and businesses that have grown out of Wellington's burgeoning movie industry.