"I am delighted with this collection and deeply appreciative of the opportunity to work with the American Hardwood Export Association and its prestigious members" says Yong of the outcome of the Lifecycles project. "Collaborating with a group of  stakeholders who share a passion for showcasing the beauty and potential of American hardwoods is a true honor. Through my artwork, I aim to intrigue people's appreciation of form and function, challenging their understanding of values in the face of consumerism and, importantly,  the depletion of world resources. The chance to work with a diverse range of hardwood species is particularly exhilarating, as it allows me to create something truly unique and new. Each species brings its own distinctive characteristics, colors, and textures, enabling me to craft visually captivating and conceptually thought-provoking pieces. By blending these varied wood species in my creations, I hope to ignite conversations about sustainability and responsible resource utilisation".