I’m thinking some sort of quasi-pyramid scheme. And by “scheme,” I plan to ask each maker the same three questions: 1. What is the piece you’ve made that you’re most proud of; 2. What piece of Canadian-made furniture someone else has made do you like the most; and 3. What internationally made piece of furniture do you like the most?

Once I get their answers, I’ll approach the two people on their list to ask them the same questions, and so on. That’s the pyramid scheme side of things. If by some chance it doesn’t work out, and someone doesn’t get back to me, I’ll pick a new Canadian maker to answer the three questions. I’ll keep at it one way or another.

My hope is that this will open our eyes to just how much studio furniture is out there, and maybe be inspired by what we see and learn from them for an upcoming project we may be planning. I’m looking forward to being introduced to some new artists and the great work they do.

Let’s kick it off.

I mentioned my recent chat with Yorgo Liapis, a Toronto woodworker and artist, in last week’s blog post. I thought Yorgo had some interesting insights into the woodworking world, both at home and abroad, so that’s where I’ll kick things off. Yorgo was more than happy to share his thoughts.

Favourite piece you’ve made?

Liapis: The piece of furniture I’m most proud of is my “Jaguar Credenza.” While designing this piece and working out the difficulties of making a jaguar skin out of wood veneer, I came to the realization in that moment that I was an artist and would be for the rest of my life. This piece led to a series of sculptures.

Favourite Canadian-made piece?

Adrian Ferrazzutti, “Butterfly Vanity”

Liapis: I love this piece because it’s great how Adrian was exploring animal forms in furniture, and he has taken using veneer to the next level. And the details in the drawers are beautiful. I spent some time with him at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Maine, and that was a great experience.

Favourite internationally made piece?

Yuri Kobayashi, Japan, “Being”

Liapis: One of my favourite international pieces made by Yuri Kobayashi is her piece titled “Being.” This is one I often fantasize about owning one day. I was fortunate to spend time with Yuri at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship back in 2016. Nobody works harder than Yuri, and in combination with her work ethic, hand skills and deep spirit, she truly is greatness.

Bonus round

Reed Hansuld, “Rocker No. 2”

Yorgo’s answer to my first question was a rocker by Reed Hansuld, titled “Rocker No. 2.” When Reed made the chair, he was living in Canada, but he’s since moved to Brooklyn, NY, so I asked Yorgo to name another one of his favourite Canadian-made pieces. However, rather than brush Reed’s gorgeous rocker aside, I’m including it here.

Liapis: The Canadian-made piece I really love is Reed Hansuld’s “Rocker No. 2.” Reed is a dear friend to me, and having shared studio space with him, I got to witness his work ethic and fearless approach to starting a new piece.

If any of you have a Canadian maker you’d like me to approach with these three questions, let me know. I’m always all-ears when it comes to learning more about Canadian woodworkers.