"Rustic Twig" furniture dates to 18th Century when twig chairs were first featured in English gardens. In colonial America, small, dark living spaces sent folks into the fresh air of gardens and yards, weather permitting, sparking the need for outdoor furniture which was often fashioned in rustic design. In the early 20th century, furnishings of rustic style became a well-known feature of the country retreats, cabins and "camps" of well-to-do city folk such as the Vanderbilts.
Twig work pulls together elements of nature and function. Sticks are usually peeled and then assembled into structures, each one different from the next. Twig furniture utilizes the unique character of individual elements to create pieces that may be ornate without adornment or subtle in the simplicity of the natural form.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
Where art and function come together. Arcadian Furnishings creates a multitude of accents for your home. Each piece of my unique furnishings are custom made to exude their own rustic charm with nurtured hand-crafted character.
I create durable, functional and beautiful furnishings for everyday use and home decor. I use only hand-selected materials indigenous to the Allegheny Highlands of West Virginia.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
I became interested in creating in the rustic twig design at age 15. After attending a class at the famed Augusta Heritage Festival in my home town of Elkins, WV, my handiwork began gracing the homes of family and friends. I have been known to set-up a booth at Cheat River Festival in Albright, WV and occasionally frequent other festivals as well. My work has been seen in "Amazing Vacation Homes" on the Travel Channel.
**I currently live on a peaceful bit of wooded acerage in Shepherdstown, WV, with my wife Tabi, sons Elan and Liam, dog Shiloh, and a handful of chickens. I makes frequent forays into the mountains of Randolph County, WV to forage the materials for my next project. I enjoy kayaking, biking, backpacking and generally communing with the great outdoors.