Sunday, October 26, 2008

Michael Puryear



Michael Puryear has been an independent studio furniture maker for over 20 years. Having had no formal training in art or design, Michael has developed his craft through exploration and experimentation. His most recent work incorporates shibui, the Japanese term for simple elegance. Using minimal forms that are rich in traditional furniture ascetics and meaning, Puryear’s work reflect his appreciation for the clarity and directness of Scandinavian and Shaker furniture. Here Puryear comments on how shibui is incorporated into his work;

“This simplicity belies the complexity of creating and joining furniture elements aesthetically, while maintaining full functionality in the design.”

Currently, Michael teaches woodworking at SUNY Purchase as well as maintaining his studio in New York. Michael also has taught workshops at Penland, Arrowmont, Anderson Ranch, and the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship.

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