There are many things about George Nakashima’s woodworking and complex philosophy that attracts so many people. This is the only in-depth documentary about the seminal woodworker ever made.
George Nakashima (1905-1990) is one of the best known and influential woodworkers ever. His works were always finely crafted from solid hardwoods. His work fell into two categories – his perfected but simple nuanced forms, or his explorations of the endless complexities found inside centuries-old trees. He did not come to woodworking until his mid-thirties after a worldwide search for meaning for several years during the Great Depression. During his seeker’s journey, he found important answers that brought him to evolve this new approach to woodworking. It is a timeless story for anyone who has a fascination with the creative process.
The two-hour documentary offers a rare and very personal perspective of George Nakashima and the work that he designed and produced over a period of 54 years.
After George Nakashima began his worldwide “seeker’s journey“ for seven years during the Great Depression, the film offers the viewer a unique opportunity to see Nakashima as he develops and refines his aesthetics, craft, and philosophy.
He returned to the United States with the knowledge and wisdom he found and used it to become one of the most original woodworker/designers the world has seen. It is said by critics that George’s work always grew better, until, near the end of his life, he was creating his finest works. The film contains information, interviews, archival footage, recordings, and photographs otherwise lost in time, the product of twenty years’ research and editing, all deftly woven together in a unique and compelling story.
George Nakashima changed woodworking forever. His influence has been formative and life-changing for makers in almost every country. His body of work and approach to furniture making is central to design history, leading him to become the only woodworker who is a household name throughout the world. Jon Binzen, editor and writer for the magazine “Fine Woodworking” says, “Every woodworker tries their hand at making at least one George Nakashima slab table.”
