about
I work with wood to produce playfully sculptural, flowing forms. My aim is to tease the eye, and to intrigue people and make them smile.
Though sculptural in form and often complex in construction I hope to keep my work lighthearted in concept. The inspiration for my designs is rooted more solidly in the realm of fantasy than in the stylistic rigidity imposed by tradition. I favor the imaginative influences of Seuss, Carroll or Disney over those of the Sheratons and Chippendales of furniture history.
My studio work is driven primarily by a passion for working with fine wood veneers, whether it is in the context of pressing bent-lamination cores over a form, or in assembling graphic, knife-cut marquetry patterns. My use of veneer laminations as a decorative effect, integrated with hand-sculpted solid wood components, often give my furniture the appearance of having been melted or extruded, as though fashioned from metal or plastic. Those same flowing characteristics that lend my furniture its visual softness also contribute to making the interaction with my work a pleasantly tactile experience.
My custom work is a reflection of my passion for the craft. In addition to the act of making, I enjoy the creative aspects of design. I always find it exciting to be able to engage in the design process with others who are similarly enthusiastic about altering spaces.
Biography
Peter Trumbull Crellin spent his formative years in and around Boston, Massachusetts. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and Prehistory from the University of Sheffield, England. Upon his return to the U.S., he entered into a furniture making apprenticeship. In 2001,Peter began building a body of work of his own design. After initially working within the context of a co-operative woodshop, he set up shop as P. T. Crellin Studio at its current location in Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 2006. Since then, Peter has been designing and building furniture in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
Juried Exhibitions and Gallery Shows:
Gallery 51, “Handmade: A look at Contemporary Craft.” Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, MA, Winter, 2008.
The American Craft Council Wholesale/Retail Show, Baltimore, MD, 2008
CraftBoston, Boston, MA, 2006-2008
Fine Furnishings Show, Providence, RI, 2003-2008
Philadelphia Furniture and Furnishings Show, Philadelphia, PA, 2004-2005.
Selected Articles:
“Wood Works Wonders” Providence Journal, Lifebeat Section, October 21, 2007.
“A playful bent with curves and veneers,” New England Crafts Connoisseur, Volume 10 Issue 4, Summer 2007.
“Philadelphia Story,” Australian Wood Review, Spring 2005