Neil Verplank Artist's Statement

Neil Verplank is the first artist to join me in offering work for sale or commission here at ArtBuzz. His work is available primarily by commission, though from time to time he might post a piece that is immediately available. Neil lives and works in Chicago.

I feel the work should honor the tree from which it came, lasting for as long as it will take another tree to grow and replace it. Above all I value the beauty of wood as a natural working medium, the honesty of the straight line and perfect curve, and the simplicity of practical usefulness. — Neil Verplank

Neil Verplank's work brings together diverse influences to create his own modern style. Japanese aesthetics, from Ryokan architecture to hand-carved joinery, inspire Neil. His use of complex mechanical joints such as the Nejiri Arigata, or "folded dovetail," makes a thing of beauty from the join between two boards. Echoes of modern craftsmen such as Sam Maloof, James Krenov and George Nakishima find new context in Neil's designs. Working with meticulous detail, Neil incorporates design elements from modern masters into his own vision.

Neil's design and workmanship are driven by a pursuit of craft for its own sake. He enjoys pushing his skills and abilities to new levels through the creation of ever more demanding pieces.  The simple, yet unique, beauty of wood inspires him to continue the ancient tradition of incorporating beauty into everyday objects.  The sustainable use of natural and renewable resources is a matter of great importance to him.

Neil's goal is always to produce fine hand-crafted functional objects that will last a lifetime.  He honors the materials and craft inherent in each piece, carefully selecting woods from around the world and revealing the construction and joinery details in his designs. By designing with special attention to the intended use of a piece, he strives to produce timeless work which will age gracefully, and can be enjoyed for generations.  His continual focus on new work and new challenges produces a forever-evolving body of work, not simply a line a furniture.