James Krenov, craftsman and philosopher of woodworking
James Krenov, influential master woodworker, author, and teacher has passed away. His cabinets exhibit simplicity of form, and highlight the natural and unique qualities of wood. Krenov referred to himself as a “pre-kerouac Hippie” who roamed Europe and worked in shipyards and factories before studying fine woodcraft under Carl Malmsten in Sweden. He founded and taught at the College of the Redwoods Fine Furniture Program in Fort Bragg, California, in addition to keeping a personal studio.
Many were influenced by Krenov’s philosophical approach to his art. In a Smithsonian interview, he said the main belief informing his work is “you should not be unhappy in the primary thing that occupies you”. Kranov’s books are much more than just a how-to. He speaks of the smells, colors, natural variances, and feel of woodworking materials, and of the process of transforming raw wood into unique works of art.
Anyone who enjoys the pleasures of handwork will want to take a look at Krenov’s writings. Jen library has several of his books: James Krenov, Worker in Wood; The Impractical Cabinetmaker, and The Fine Art of Cabinetmaking.
See images of James Krenov’s works here.
