I read today that Wendell Castle died. Just a few days ago, I was thinking of what I had learned from him and posting a note and the photo below to a draft for the website.
Wendell spoke at the 2016 Furniture Society Conference. His talk was clear and meaningful. I took notes. I was rereading these notes these few days ago, because hearing him talk, I had thought: These things I believe, these words are sterling, and I can use them. On one line, I wrote “clear and meaningful.” I used it above. It can apply to paragraphs and to furniture.
The following paragraph is mine…as much as anything is…but it is inspired, informed, and invigorated because I heard Wendell Castle speak. Words from my notes appear in italic.
The art of furniture making, and making a living from it, is limited by form, materials, facility, and patrons. For success, autonomy, and reward, the furniture must be in touch— sensible, practical, and reasonable. I do not design for myself, but for the experience of patrons. Finding the art and the patron requires daring and risk. I’ll take no path, but leave a trail. Of this path I blaze and knowledge I gather along it, I am only caretaker for a while.
“Share everything you know.” Wendell Castle.
Gary Weeks and Wendell Castle
Gary Weeks & Company, Furnituremakers 