Tim DeMuth's Projects

BFA Student

Major: Woodworking & Furniture Design

Graduation Year: 2017

Artist Statement:

When creating a piece of furniture I strive to find ways of distorting the form to generate a new level of engagement. Confounding the relationship a viewer has with the work deconstructs the history and heritage of an item--expanding different approaches regarding typical interaction. I trained as a cabinetmaker and as a boatbuilder, and after working professionally in both trades I wanted to find a way of blending the two disciplines. Where cabinetmaking is square, precise and machined-- boatbuilding is curved, loose and primarily fit by hand. It is this contrast and understanding of both skill sets that allows me to bring a unique approach to the work, and motivates me to strike a balance of the two.
I am fascinated by the relationship we have with the crafted objects that fill our daily lives. I view this connection as a starting point for my work, by taking an object that is universally understood and skewing it slightly, I can change the way that an item is perceived. As an artist I find solace in the process of creating the work, and by handcrafting the object I obtain a better understanding of the history I seek to deconstruct. I incorporate the curvaceous forms that became familiar to me in the boat yard and am inspired by architectural works that take advantage of the contrast between geometric and natural forms. As a artist and craftsperson I am constantly working to enable and usher this harmony in the work I create.

Biography:

Tim DeMuth currently lives in Portland, Maine; obtaining his BFA in woodworking and furniture design. Previously he attended school in Seattle, Washington, studying cabinetmaking, as well as marine carpentry. With an understanding of traditions in building furniture, as well as boatbuilding techniques, he is constantly looking to find a harmonious balance of the two skill sets. His work explores the idea of changing and reinterpreting already familiar forms by challenging what can be done with the material.