James Nelson

James Nelson in his studio with Nareau Floor Lamp in process / James Nelson, Nareau Liquor Cabinet, 5' 11" x 27" x 16". Granadillo, Ash, 3000K LED Lights 

NWDC is pleased to share the art and ideas of James Nelson. 

Drawn from his background in architecture and time spent in nature, Nelson approaches furniture as a meeting point between the structural and the organic. His process favors precision and patience - qualities that allow each piece to carry a sense of lasting presence. James aims to craft furniture that endures not only in its material integrity, but in the intimacy that it develops with those who live along side it. His current focus is on creating his first cohesive collection: a body of work that embodies fine craftsmanship, enduring beauty, and the art of furniture built to outlast its moment.

How were you introduced to art?

I was first introduced to woodworking back in middle school shop class. From there, I tinkered around in my father’s garage shop and eventually ended up taking over large corner of the family garage throughout the years. I started out making small boxes, cutting boards, and other little objects until mid high school when I began making furniture, and later studying furniture design and woodworking in college.

Where do you find inspiration when creating new work?

My furniture’s design is always inspired by one of two things (or both): nature and architecture. When not in my studio or teaching, you’ll find me – or maybe not, out in the wilderness. This has always been an important part of my life, and it has grown more meaningful for me as time goes on. The tranquility and quiet I find out in the backcountry allows me to have the time that I need to think through new and old ideas. I also find it somewhat necessary to have a certain connection to the trees, as they are the supplier of the medium in which I work. At San Diego State University, a large part of my studies focused around interior and architectural design and the built environment. This can be seen in my furniture through sometimes the monumentality (or fragility) of the piece, or perhaps the connections between different structural components. These two major influences provide contrast within my furniture, as both organic and structural. 

What do you consider your greatest artistic achievement?

I have been very fortunate within my career so far. However, out of all of my achievements over the years, I would say that my current inclusion in the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art’s exhibition Crafting Futures: Emerging Artists Invitational takes the cake. This exhibition marks the first museum showing of my work, as well as the introduction of my first comprehensive furniture collection; a definite milestone for any furniture designer or maker. I am very proud to have been invited to display my work there.

What is the quality you most like in an artist?

The quality that I like most in an artist is an unwavering dedication to creating unique art with a sense of intention, especially when that art – whatever it may be, is important to their sense of self and what they hold dear; that is when the best art is made.

Which living artist do you most admire?

There are many artists and designers that I admire, however, the one that currently inspires me the most is John Vugrin, a furniture designer and maker working in Joshua Tree who makes quite insane organic and biomorphic furniture and interiors; whose work inspired my current Nareau Collection.

James Nelson, Nareau Pendant Light, 30" Long. Granadillo, Ash, Stainless Steel Cable, 3000K LED Light / James Nelson, Nareau Dining Chair, 32" Tall with 18" Seat Width and 17" Seat Height. Granadillo, Ash

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Being an artist means that you are often self-directed. For me, that means that no one is forcing me to go work in the shop – that will power has to come entirely from me in order to get anything done! Sometimes it’s a little too easy to spend time with friends or go get lost in the woods instead. 

What is your most treasured possession?

My most treasured possessions are probably my tools – if I were to not have them, what could I do?

Who has had a significant influence over your work?

There are many artists and designers that I admire, however, the one that currently inspires me the most isJohn Vugrin, a furniture designer and maker working in Joshua Tree who makes quite insane organic and biomorphic furniture and interiors; whose work inspired my current Nareau Collection.

How has your studio practice changed?

Well, starting out I made small little woodworking things, once I went to college, I was making mostly furniture pieces. Now, I only make furniture in my shop and as of lately, I am only making pieces for/from my Nareau Collection. I have found that as I continue to develop a strong design language for myself, my studio practice gets narrower – which I think is a good thing, it helps focus me. I also feel that what I call myself has changed over the years. I wouldn’t necessarily refer to myself as a woodworker like I would even just a couple of years ago. Nowadays, I would refer to myself as a furniture maker, or a furniture designer. 

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

My idea of perfect happiness is getting to create sick-ass furniture for a living (as well as getting lost in the woods, of course).