Making a Brettstuhl or Board Chair
Visiting Artist - Wood | Available
In this workshop, participants will examine an Alpine vernacular chair, the brettstuhl or stabelle. The form calls for equal parts whimsy and technical process. It's composed of two thin boards joined by long through tenons with locking tusks, sliding dovetails, and cylindrical leg tenons. At the same time, it's often decorated with hearts, carved names, symbols, and eccentric silhouettes. It calls for play! We'll use traditional techniques and joinery to construct our own iterations. While relying on traditional concepts, we'll also try to leverage them into something new. While we won't explore pattern carving in this class, participants will be encouraged to play with form and shapes by designing their own backs, seats, and pierced shapes. Prior woodworking experience is not required, but will be helpful.
Additional Information:
- Registration will close one month prior to the start of class.
- A material fee of $70 will be added at check out.
- Enrollment is open to participants aged 18 +
Charles Thompson
Charles Thompson makes chairs and carvings in a humble workshop on a hill in western Massachusetts. His work reflects on vernacular forms, and uses a mixed vocabulary of techniques, patterns, and materials that speak to the efficacy of hand work. He typically works straight from the log, splitting, bending, manipulating, then rejoining wood in a process that leverages personal intention and celebrates common materials. He senses, in the back of his mind and now in his work, a deepening curiosity as to what could count as his own tradition. Charles teaches at venues including Snow Farm, North Bennet St. School, and John C. Campbell Folk School.
See more of Charles's work at www.charlesthompson.net.