I seek to build furniture and objects that reflect the complexity and beauty of natural processes of erosion and decay.
My current body of work explores the productive territory between fine woodworking and the elemental force of fire. Introducing the unpredictability and destructive potential of the flame allows for a more intuitive, spontaneous, and free way of working wood. Burning processes evolved from the Japanese technique of “yakisugi” (sometimes known as “shou sugi ban”) create a rich, variable surface of complex color, texture, and form. Grain and glue lines become deeply etched revealing new relationships within the wood, emphasizing pattern and structure while adding cracks and eroding edges. Frequently, I use end-grain surfaces that highlight the variances and repetition in the seasonal growth of the tree. To enhance these qualities, I utilize a combination of finishing techniques that deepen and enrich the natural surfaces. Working with cleaved, textured, turned, or natural edge wood further expands the possibilities inherent in this process. My goal is to sensitively transform each surface, pushing the material to the limit of what is possible.
I am currently Assistant Professor and Program Head of Fine Woodworking at Santa Fe Community College and operate a furniture studio in Los Lunas, New Mexico. My work has been featured in numerous periodicals and publications on contemporary art and design. Prior to moving west, I was the program head for woodworking at the Shelburne Art Center near Burlington, Vermont. I hold an MFA in Furniture Design from Rhode Island School of Design and a BA from Wesleyan University. In addition, I completed the Fine Woodworking program at Bucks County Community College.
Doug Jones
My work is available through:
Custom orders always welcome; please drop me a line using the Contact page