George Nakashima's Confluence of Art and Nature

The artistic vision of George Nakashima is explored, showcasing how his furniture seamlessly blends the beauty of natural wood with masterful craftsmanship. The video delves into Nakashima's philosophy and techniques, offering a glimpse into his unique approach to furniture making that elevates the craft to an art form.

George Nakashima (1905-1990) learned to allow the wood to speak to him, and create furniture that reflects the tree from which it came. The American woodworker continued the tradition of William Morris and Japanese joinery. It is a tribute to his skills.

He said that "we can walk in step with a tree to release the joy in her grains, to join her to realize her potentials, and to enhance the environments of man."

Forgive me for the dream sequence, for craftsmen and women need some ideal to strive for.

The video is one of the tributes to my woodworking heroes by Hoosierwoodcraft. Please subscribe to this channel.

TImestamp
0:00 Introduction
0:25 George was born in Spokane Washington in 1905.
1:00 emphasizing on sense of duty (to his work), lack of ego, and need for education.
1:41 He wanted to study forestry.
1:58 His parents urged George to change his major to architecture.
2:21 Massachusetts Institute of Technology for his Masters in Architecture.
3:03 The guru asked him to create a peaceful spiritual hermitage made from modern materials.
3:10 Sri Aurobindo's philosophy.
7:33 In Dec 1941, his family was ordered for war-time internment.
8:10 George was anxious to establish his own craft-furniture business.
8:24 Brogren Stool, 1945
8:31 Plank Coffee Table, 1945
8:45 Amoeba Tables, 1951
9:06 Walnut Odakyo Cabinet, 1982
9:13 Peace Altar, 1986
9:20 He received the Sacred Treasure Award from the Emperor himself.
9:34 Credits