Makers is the definitive history of American studio craft, from its humble beginnings in the early 20th century to its vibrant and thriving state today. This lavishly illustrated book tells the stories of the men and women who have shaped the field, from iconic figures like Wharton Esherick, George Nakashima, and Sam Maloof to emerging artists working in clay, glass, metal, fiber, and wood. With over 400 stunning photographs, Makers is a must-have for anyone interested in the history of American art and design.
4 out of 5
| Language | : | English |
| File size | : | 19869 KB |
| Text-to-Speech | : | Enabled |
| Screen Reader | : | Supported |
| Enhanced typesetting | : | Enabled |
| Print length | : | 543 pages |
Studio craft is an umbrella term for a wide range of artistic practices that are characterized by their focus on handmade, one-of-a-kind objects. While studio craft has its roots in the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century, it began to take on a distinct identity in the United States in the early 20th century. This was due in part to the influx of European immigrants who brought with them their own traditions of craftsmanship, as well as to the growing interest in American folk art and design.
One of the most important figures in the early development of studio craft in the United States was Wharton Esherick. Esherick was a self-taught furniture maker who was inspired by the medieval and Renaissance furniture makers of Europe. He was known for his innovative use of materials and his meticulous attention to detail. Esherick's work helped to establish studio craft as a legitimate art form, and he influenced a generation of younger artists.
Another important figure in the development of studio craft in the United States was George Nakashima. Nakashima was a Japanese-American artist who studied architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After World War II, Nakashima settled in New Hope, Pennsylvania, where he established a studio and began to produce furniture that was inspired by both Japanese and American traditions. Nakashima's work is known for its simple, elegant forms and its use of natural materials.
Sam Maloof was another important figure in the development of studio craft in the United States. Maloof was a self-taught furniture maker who was inspired by the Shaker tradition. He was known for his use of simple, functional forms and his attention to detail. Maloof's work helped to make studio craft more accessible to the general public, and he influenced a generation of younger artists.
In the years since the 1950s, studio craft has continued to evolve and grow. Today, there are hundreds of studio craft artists working in the United States, and their work can be found in galleries, museums, and private collections around the world. Studio craft is a vibrant and thriving tradition, and it continues to play an important role in the American art and design landscape.
Makers is a comprehensive and beautifully illustrated history of American studio craft. This book is a must-have for anyone interested in the history of American art and design.
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