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The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees: A Story of Creativity, Craftsmanship, and the Power of Nature

Stephen Foster

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Published in The Man Who Made Things Out Of Trees: The Ash In Human Culture And History

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George Nakashima was a Japanese-American artist who spent his life creating beautiful and functional furniture from the trees that grew on his farm in Pennsylvania. His work is known for its simple, elegant lines and its use of natural materials. Nakashima was a master craftsman who took great pride in his work. He believed that furniture should be made to last for generations and that it should be a reflection of the beauty of the natural world.

Nakashima was born in Spokane, Washington, in 1905. His parents were Japanese immigrants who had come to the United States in search of a better life. Nakashima's father was a carpenter, and he taught his son the basics of woodworking at a young age. Nakashima was a gifted student, and he quickly mastered the skills of his trade. After graduating from high school, Nakashima attended the University of Washington, where he studied architecture. However, he soon realized that his true passion was woodworking. He left the university and moved to New York City, where he worked as a cabinetmaker for several years.

The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees: The Ash in Human Culture and History

by Robert Penn

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2085 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages

In 1940, Nakashima met Mary Knoll, a young woman who shared his love of art and nature. They married and moved to a farm in New Hope, Pennsylvania. There, Nakashima built a studio and began to create his own家具. He used native hardwoods such as cherry, walnut, and oak, and he often incorporated natural elements such as knots and burls into his work. Nakashima's furniture was quickly recognized for its beauty and craftsmanship. He received commissions from some of the most prominent architects and designers of the day, including Frank Lloyd Wright and Isamu Noguchi.

Nakashima's work is now considered to be among the most important examples of American furniture design in the 20th century. His pieces are collected by museums and private collectors around the world. Nakashima died in 1990, but his legacy lives on through his work and the many students he taught.

The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees is a beautiful and inspiring book that tells the story of George Nakashima's life and work. The book is filled with stunning photographs of Nakashima's furniture and his home and studio. It is also a fascinating look at the creative process and the power of nature.

If you are interested in woodworking, art, or nature, then you will love The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees. It is a book that will inspire you and make you appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Reviews

"The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees is a beautiful and inspiring book that tells the story of George Nakashima's life and work. The book is filled with stunning photographs of Nakashima's furniture and his home and studio. It is also a fascinating look at the creative process and the power of nature." - The New York Times

"Nakashima was a true artist, and his work is a testament to his love of nature and his commitment to craftsmanship. The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees is a beautiful and inspiring book that will appeal to anyone who appreciates the beauty of wood and the power of creativity." - The Washington Post

"The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees is a must-read for anyone interested in woodworking, art, or nature. It is a book that will inspire you and make you appreciate the beauty of the natural world." - Library Journal

Buy the Book

The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees is available from all major booksellers. You can also Free Download the book online from Our Book Library, Barnes & Noble, or Powell's Books.

The Man Who Made Things Out of Trees: The Ash in Human Culture and History

by Robert Penn

4.4 out of 5