There are rare moments in the design continuum when the inspiration of a single artisan transcends that of their contemporaries and translates into a legacy destined to extend beyond the here and now. Such is the work of Robert Foster and his studio/workshop, Fink+Co. The products are designed by Australian artists and most of the manufacturing processes occur in the Fink studio.

Each object is individually hand finished which results in an object embedded with its own unique characteristics - more like a piece of art. Founded in 1993 to manufacture beautifully-designed and innovative household objects, Fink is not just a showcase for Foster's internationally-renowned exhibition pieces, but a production house for the work of an increasing pool of young designers, and a name synonymous with spirited and distinctive Australian design. Fink fundamentally challenges the notions that functional is necessarily boring, and that useful and visually exciting are mutually exclusive.

While embracing and reinventing the urban and utilitarian, Fink is shamelessly unafraid of running with quirkiness and frivolity that captures the heart and imagination. Each article in the Fink array has a story of evolution and development, often involving technical and aesthetic innovation. Each radiates its own persona, reflecting the strength of its distinctive design.

Lauded as works of exemplary contemporary design in the world's major arts institutions including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) in Canberra, Fink objects offer more than just striking visual appeal and design innovation. The functional performance and quality of production and finishing are palpably important to the artists and the studio.

It comes as no surprise that Foster was originally trained more than two decades ago as a metalsmith and has worked overseas with some of the world's leading design houses: Alessi (design and prototyping of teapots in 1996 and 2000) and Ingo Maurer (lighting prototypes in 2000).

Supremely functional but never mundane, no two Fink pieces are exactly the same; every design is a work of art and none is mass-produced. Each article is created in relatively small batches of 20 to 100 units at a time, and each is individually hand-finished in the Fink studio/workshop.

Fink is the promise of modern design excellence, uniting the utmost respect for the design ethic, the quality craftsmanship of yesterday's artisans, the innovation of modern manufacturing techniques and the wit and rigour of designer-founder Robert Foster.

Fink+Co. was established by Robert Foster in 1993 in Queanbeyan, NSW, Australia, with the aim of creating a design and manufacturing business that would support and generate opportunities for Australian designer-makers. Joined by Gretel Harrison in 1995, together they built Fink+Co. into the business it is today – a much loved and respected Australian design company with an international reputation for producing world-class tableware, hollowware, jewellery and lighting.

Be it the iconic Fink Water Jug, the squashed Storage Vessels, the graceful Coolamon Platters, the Ned Kelly-esque Wine Chiller or the subtle curves of the Beaker, every Fink product melds refined craftsmanship with shapes and colours largely inspired by the Australian landscape – tropical corals, fish and anemones, endless blue skies and vast ancient deserts.

Fink is the promise of modern design excellence, uniting the utmost respect for the design ethic with that refined craftsmanship. This craftsmanship combines traditional artisanal practices alongside innovative contemporary manufacturing techniques joined with the wit and rigour of designer-founder Foster.

Tragically, Foster was killed in a car accident in July 2016. Today, Fink+Co. is spearheaded by Gretel Harrison, who is not only the face of the company but who also leads a dynamic team of practitioners. The company has continued to go from strength to strength as Gretel and the Fink staff builds on the legacy of Robert Foster.

Supremely functional but never mundane, no two Fink pieces are exactly the same; every design is a work of art and none is mass-produced. Each article is created in relatively small batches of 20 to 100 units at a time and each is individually hand-finished in the Queanbeyan studio/workshop.

Fink fundamentally challenges the notions that functional is necessarily boring, and that useful and visually exciting are mutually exclusive. While embracing and reinventing both the urbane and the utilitarian, Fink is shamelessly unafraid of running with a quirkiness and frivolity that captures both the heart and the imagination.

Back in 1993 it was Robert’s intention that Fink+Co would operate as a collective. The “+ Co” was important to him. Many of the much loved Fink products created during his life were collaborations with other designers and artists.

Whilst Robert and his influence is irreplaceable, it is Gretel’s intention that Fink+Co will continue that collaborative tradition, and in conjunction with other designers and artists will continue to produce innovative products that challenge, delight and amuse.

Since 2016 the staff and friends of Fink+Co have gone above and beyond to fill the void left by Robert’s passing. Workshop Manager Bengt Cannon and the team’s commitment to the survival and future success of the company has been exceptional. The company has also made a significant financial investment in the workshop including upgraded equipment, new tooling and facilities.

It is intended that these improvements, along with the desire to continue Robert Foster’s wish to create a truly Australian design company manufacturing Australian made objects, will see Fink+Co products adorn the homes and bodies of this nation and its people for many years to come.