Each piece of furniture I make is a segment of a constantly moving stream of energy.  This is often represented on the surface of the piece as an inlaid line of variegated color segments.  I call this the “lifeline”, as in the palm of the hand.  It flows like water through each piece, just as wood is a carrier of water.

Surfaces often evoke map-like symbolism.  These are maps of the dreamscape.  You may find a compass image, cycling moons for sky and passage of time, or a fossil to remind us of our distant, buried past.  Often, seven directions are evoked: north, south, east, west, sky, earth, and eternity.  Planets, galaxies, moons, and clouds balance geologic, subterranean, river, and desert imagery.

Sensual, organic forms are complemented by inlaid geometric images.  Homage is paid to the tree itself, to historical furniture forms, to the interplay of natural and worked surfaces.

A horizontal surface is often “ground”, “underground”, “undersea”, or “map”.  Vertical forms may be growing forms, human or animal forms, trees, or architectural references.  Many pieces are composed of elements which are able to stand alone as small sculptures, yet bear a strong relationship to other pieces and to the whole. 

Trees are, after all a combination of earth, sun, water, starlight, clouds, and a myriad of other distinct elements.  If one can see a cloud in a tree, why not a dreamscape in a table?

In addition to the symbolic and spiritual, each piece also has a deeply sensual quality.  As the spirit dwells with the body, the abstract artwork actually functions!  We eat at the table; sit on the bench; write at the desk.  There is a holistic nature to this work.  It is expressionistic and down-to-earth at the same time, inviting interaction at all levels.

I am not a particularly talented person. I am one who happens to have devoted three decades to making furniture in ways which are satisfying to me, personally. This has resulted in a wide vocabulary of forms, which I am continually delighted to use.  My work is simply enjoyable for me.  I am very grateful to have been privileged to follow this path.  I give deep thanks to my clients, who encourage me, and enable me to continue my calling.

Steven Spiro   Dec. 2002