The Great Debate: Art or Craft
In the realm of Studio Furniture there hangs a looming question:
“Is what I am doing art or is it a craft?”
Now, I know this subject has been discussed and will continue to be discussed in great length, so I am not about to try to settle the matter in one simple post. In fact, I’m not so sure this question should be settled. What I would like to offer is just my simple and brief observation and opinion on the matter, and then I want to hand it over to you.
Studio Furniture is defined as: “one-of-a-kind or limited production furniture objects designed and built by craftspeople. The work is made in a craftsperson's studio setting as opposed to being made in a high volume factory.”
According to this definition, furniture crafted within an individual shop, or “studio” has certain hallmarks or characteristics that set it apart from its mass produced counterparts. The very nature of the piece as well as the nature of the individual maker seems to elevate it to a particular level.
So, what is this “level?”
Art has a certain “look, don’t touch” connotation associated with it. It brings to mind strolling though a gallery with masterful pieces from centuries long past on display for all to admire. Is this where studio furniture belongs? Do we take our just finished pieces right from the workbench to the display stand of the art gallery for all to view?
Craft, however, seems to conjure up images of a lone individual using traditional tools and techniques to rough out a sort of simplistic folk piece. It describes a utilitarian quality that is contained in handmade items. In certain vocabulary the word “craft” can sometimes have an almost negative use. As if by being made in this manner it’s not quite on the level to be considered art
So, is there a middle ground? Where does Studio Furniture belong in all of this?
Once again, all I am writing here is my simple opinion formed through teaching and limited experiences thus far as a maker of furniture.
I believe that Studio Furniture by its very nature is first and foremost a craft. It is created by individual makers using time tested methods of construction, often executed with the aid of traditional hand tools. The overall function of the piece is evident and expertly executed. Integrity of the work and longevity of the piece are the convictions that drive these makers to use such techniques. It is in this crafting that the piece and the maker are connected through the hands, eyes, thoughts, intentions, and emotions. This is the foundational “why” of what these makers do.
I also believe that Studio Furniture can and does qualify to be art in some instances. An individual maker puts not only their skills into a piece, they put their vision, mind, soul, will, intent, and heart in to it as well. This elevates their work above the pieces produced for the sake of mere production and profit. This does not, however, instantly transform it into a piece of art.
History shows us that great art is considered great because it demonstrates a most masterful command of both technique and vision. For Studio Furniture to be considered art, it must stand out among the craft and show a careful and expert unity of both construction and design. The piece must be a cohesive unit of the maker and the maker’s vision. It stands out from the rest in quiet superiority. Most often it is never the intention of the maker to produce a great work of art. Instead they merely sought to produce what was churning inside their creative and expressive being. We have history to show us that.
So, is it art or is it craft?
Well, depending on the maker’s intentions, and the character and vision of the piece, it can certainly be both.
Now, it’s your turn. I want to know your thoughts, feelings, and opinions on the matter. Whether you’re a woodworker, an artist in another medium, or someone who appreciates the finer things, you have something valuable to say on the subject.
Leave a comment below or contact the Studio and share your thoughts and insights. I look forward to hearing what you have to say.
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Comments
Art or Craft?
Well, first I'd have to say that my albeit limited exposure to "studio furniture" leaves me with the sense that it is art, not craft. However, my definition of "studio furniture" (hereafter known as SF) doesn't start with how its made, but rather WHY its made, which is why I consider it to be art. I must admit though that most of my exposure to SF has been pieces that are beautiful or interesting to look at, but are functionally crippled or useless.
Those SF pieces were made to express something. That is the purpose of art. Expression. Function is purely secondary, incidental, or even deliberately undermined. Watch "American Choppers" and you'll see beautiful works of motorcycle art that are, functionally, almost unrideable, especially in contrast to a $10k Japanese, British, or Italian bike brand new off a showroom floor.
Your definition of SF falls into what I would consider "artisan". That realm between the archetype craftsman and archetype artist. Where considerations of both realms are in play, are given serious weight. The Artisan will not sacrifice function for forms sake, but rather seeks to maximize both, and (hopefully) has both the talent and skill to do so.
@Bikerdad
Very well put. I appreciate the input. Yes, a lot of "art" furniture does indeed sacrifice its function for the same of form and statement.
I guess in my case the function is actually part of the statement.
Great comment. Thanks.
Arts & Crafts
How about just calling it "arts and crafts"! Har-har... I know.... that's a terrible comment compared to all the insight that's been posted. What else do you expect from me though? - Anna:)
(the site looks good. i like the black)
@Anna Ladies and Gentleman -
@Anna
Ladies and Gentleman - my sister everyone!! HA! Sorry, Anna. I just had too. Thanks for your input and I'm glad you like the black theme on the site. Anyone else have an opinion on the new colors?
Very Insightful
Great post Adam, and many insightful comments as well. I would have to agree that most of the work would be craft, produced by talented craftsmen, but it could be both art and craft in the same piece. As a talented craftsman, you can be very artistic, if you have the creativity and vision. I think that even the most talented of craftsmen may only produce craft pieces, but a craft piece that is also a work of art must have something creatively different about it. An art piece could actually be put to work, but would be held in a higher esteem and treated with more respect. Like comparing a Mercedes Benz to a Rolls Royce. That's just my humble opinion, for what it's worth.
@Chris
Great comment. There can certainly be a "dichotomy" existing within a single piece. The artistry of the work certainly does not have to detract from the function of it. You're right it should stand out from the rest due to its overall nature. Thanks for those words.
Craft or Art
Very thought provoking post Adam. It was mentioned in another comment that the intent of the maker often determines weather art or craft. I for one use to find it extremely annoying when people would call my work a beautiful piece of art furniture. This was because I knew the functionality and craft behind the piece. So I knew that it was much more than just art. Plus I also would look at the work of those making the comments and this would make me not really value there opinion. Now I think that if some thinks it's art I don't mind, I most likely can sell it for more if it's art than if it was craft. Thanks for the great post.
@ Kaleo
I know what you're talking about. For the longest time I didn't want to be referred to as an artist. For some reason I felt this took something away from what I do. Now I'm coming to understand that there can and will always be an element of artistry in the work because of my mind, heart, and intentions.
Same goes for you, man. Your work speaks of your artistic vision as well.
Check out Kaleo's portfolio!
The way it was
If we try to divide craft from art from trade, where does the Goddard and Townsend work fall into place? They were all one off pieces, made to order of the highest levels of craftsmanship. Art furniture? Craftsmanship? Making a living? In my book, there is mass produced and then there is small shop produced. Some of the larger custom furniture makers produce multiples of a given item. There is art within the design work, but the production becomes repetitive and formalized given the need to meet the requirements of business. To me, 'art furniture' is a form of advertisement. You make it, hopefully someone buys it, orders more from you, someone else sees your work and orders more and so on.
@Gary
Good point, Gary. Goddard and Townsend are excellent examples of this. As a form of marketing, I believe "art furniture" can and does speak for itself.
I love your website. What a great resource.
Whatever you want
I really think that you get to decide. In my book, you're an artist. No question. Art isn't defined by lack of functionality.
@Clay
Thanks Clay. No, I don't think art is defined by its functionality either. I guess in the case of furniture, since it is originally a utilitarian item, it's hard to separate the function from the piece itself.
I'll be checking your podcast out after work!
Thoughtful post, Adam. There
Thoughtful post, Adam. There is also a term—Functional Art—and although I'm anti-label, I lean in this direction. Your work and the work of other fine furniture makers is both art AND craft, in my opinion.
@Village Carpenter
Functional Art can certainly describe a lot of work by Studio Furniture makers. I have met those, however, that make things purely for some artistic statement. The craftsmanship becomes secondary because the end result is paramount. If it doesn't function properly, can we even consider it art?
Art or Craft
I found your thoughts very interesting in that you have approached this question from the artist's (or craftsman's) point of view. I think we need to go a little further.
The intent of the builder will determin how a piece is marketed, but the intent of the buyer will determin how it is percieved. If a piece is purchased and put to work, then it is a craft piece. If that same piece is purchased and put on display, then it becomes art.
Glenn
@Glenn
Very insightful. I didn't stop to consider this aspect even though it's one I see every day. Intention seems to possibly be at the core of it all. The design, the execution, the materials, even the marketing. Great comment. Would love to hear more from you. Thank you.