Remembering Art Carpenter
I was first introduced to Art’s work in some of the early black and white editions of Fine Woodworking magazine back in the 70’s. Art’s sculptural designs caught my attention and I found them to be a refreshing departure from traditional designs.
Around 1980 there was an exhibit at the Oakland Museum of some of the finest contemporary studio furniture done by Bay area and Northern California artisans. After attending this exhibit I was subsequently opened up to whole new perspective of woodworking. Art had one of his famous wishbone chairs on display as well as some of his other designs and there was furniture on exhibit from accomplished craftsman whom had studied with Art. The following year when I received word that Art was going to be teaching classes at his studio, I signed up right away. I recall the drive from Santa Rosa to Bolinas and noticed there wasn’t any signage marking the turnoff. When I mention something to Art at the class on chair making he chuckled and said the locals keep removing the sign because they want to remain low profile.
Looking around Art’s home and studio during the tour, all of these impressions painting a picture of Art and his chosen lifestyle. Art was a true bohemian walking far from the predictable beaten path of mainstream society. It was exactly these qualities that drew me to like Art Espenet Carpenter. I remember Art mentioning a story about how he came to be a self employed woodworker. He served in the Navy during World War Two. Many of his fellow recruits lost their lives in that brutal war. After returning home, he said he felt like he had returned from the dead. He felt like he had another chance to live life. This profound experience had such an effect on him that he decided to spend his “New Life” pursuing things that were meaningful to him. This philosophy struck a cord with me because that is the same philosophy I adopted in my early 20’s when I made the decision to pursue woodworking full time. Art also used to tell us that there was no independent thinking without independent employment. It is very difficult to be employed by a corporation and resist being influenced by their beliefs.
Art has left behind a unique legacy of having inspired thousands of woodworkers worldwide with his original designs. He will be hugely missed and remembered forever thru his teachings as well as his furniture. Thank you Art Espenet Carpenter for your huge contribution to the world of woodworkers and people everywhere who appreciate fine craft objects.
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