Joseph Hoffmann

Joseph Hoffmann was an Austrian architect known for major works of the cubistic- geometric phase of the Viennese Art Nouveau (“to the Age its Art –to Art, its Freedom.”). His vocabulary of grids and squares, which is showcased in his architectural works of Sanatorium Purkersdorf and the Palais Stoclet, extended to functional furniture works that seem to blend the line between utilitarianism and the fine arts. All of Hoffmann’s work relied on basic geometric forms of rectangles, squares and spheres and were said to be eminent influences of modernist movement. The sitzmaschine, or “machine for sitting” which seems to ironically imply reliance on technology as a primary concern for function broadly displays Hoffman’s unique aesthetics.

Parlez vous?

This is a lovely example of mid seventeenth century French Classicism. It is characterized by clean (masculine,)line, balance and formality. The movement back to classicisim was a reaction which grew out of the European Age of Enlightenment who's roots were in the Italian Rennissance. It was a return to the Classical formulae of ancient Greece. The Golden Mean etc. It's a far cry from Baroque, (which I absolutely cannot stand, way too overdone.) But like all art, one era reacts in the opposite direction to the present style. Picture Newton, Galileo and Descartes sipping Dom Perignon, invented by a French Monk at this time 1670's,) around fine pieces like this. (I prefer Christall, but that is another story.) Notice the greek column like leg, the beautiful symmetry and proportions. Golden Mean Baby- Squerl

Gustav Stickley

Gustav Stickley was a beginning of the 20th century furniture maker and architect. Around 1904 he began making mission oak style furniture in New York State. Originally from New York I encountered some of his work in my day to travels. I like his simplicity of design and his architectural philosophy which was highly influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Ursula von Rydingsvard

I was struck by Ursula von Rydingsvard a while ago when I saw her on the Art 21 video series. Her forms are raw and organic and yet fluid and complex. She starts most of her works starts from 4” by 4” cedar boards like the one in the image below. It is as if she takes the cut lumber and turns it back into its natural form. And it’s inspiring to see an older woman tackle such massive projects. Unlike some artist like George Nakashima who may start from raw wood and try to maintain or respect its form she seems to reverse the process.


Art 21 is a wonderful series by pbs, well worth getting from netflix. You can find more information on Ursula and images of her work at their site:
http://www.pbs.org/art21/artists/vonrydingsvard/index.html

Table Saws and kickback

For a nice video showing the value of a riving knife click here.

George Nakashima Work Ethic and Inspiration

Thinking about the work of George Nakashima, I too was expecting to see a more oriental design quality.  However, after visiting his website I became intrigued not so much by the actual design of the furniture, but more so for his team's work ethic and inspiration.  That is what I most appreciate.  Never would I have thought woodworking can be such an intimate process between man and nature.  It is fascinating to realize the process of woodworking (particularly by Nakashima) as a bond and destiny of a single tree.  It's inspiring to see the levels of dedication and perfection given towards a single tree.  I tend to run into perfectionism as a stressful and problematic issue, but after researching the works of Nakashima, perfection in woodworking seems like a pleasant requirement.  Although I personally don't particularly like the design of Nakashima's work, I honestly do appreciate the background story behind the work.  I enjoy the ideals of concept, perfection, and art.

Isin't it good? Lithuanian Wood