Wharton Esherick Music Stand
5 Days: Monday - Friday, June 23rd-27th, 2025 8AM - 5 PM
Tuition: $1,400
Ages: 18 & Up
Instructor: Luke Barnett
Instructional Delivery Method(s): In person
Prerequisites: Must be confident understanding of machine tool use
Program Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Program Description:
Step into the world of studio furniture by drawing inspiration from the works of Wharton Esherick, an iconic American artist renowned for his avant-garde designs and organic forms. Over this 5-day course, students will be guided on a journey to craft a Wharton Esherick Inspired Music Stand.
The course begins with a deep dive into the history and aesthetics of studio furniture, especially emphasizing Esherick’s philosophy and approach. From there, the class will transition to learning about the intricate woodworking techniques and creative principles behind Esherick’s designs.
After setting the stage with this rich context, students will spend the first two days on wood selection and understanding the importance of grain patterns. These will serve as the foundation of their music stands. On the subsequent two days, the course will focus on the sculptural and joinery aspects, highlighting Esherick’s distinct freeform curves and the structural integrity needed for functional studio furniture.
Throughout the course, students will also be exposed to discussions on design adaptability, ensuring that the essence of Esherick’s inspiration is captured while allowing room for personal creative touches.
All required steps from material selection, grain pattern interpretation, sculpting, joinery, and finishing will be comprehensively covered. While the technical skills are a significant aspect, students will also be enriched by the artistic principles that make studio furniture a unique craft. With a maximum of 6 students, you'll receive personalized instruction in a fully equipped woodworking college with state-of-the-art work benches.
Learning Objectives:
Students will craft a functional and aesthetically pleasing Wharton Esherick Inspired Music Stand, integrating the balance between organic form and studio furniture functionality.
Understand and appreciate the historical and artistic context of studio furniture, particularly the contributions of Wharton Esherick.
Gain proficiency in selecting wood based on grain patterns and their visual contribution to the final piece.
Master the techniques of freeform sculpting and joinery, emphasizing both aesthetics and functionality.
Engage in design discussions, enabling them to adapt Esherick-inspired designs with personal creative flares while respecting the essence of the original.
Course Materials:
A comprehensive course handout will be provided to each student. This resource will delve into the history of Wharton Esherick, the principles of studio furniture, and step-by-step guides on the techniques taught. This manual serves to remind students of their learning journey and to assist them in future projects inspired by Esherick’s designs.
Tool List: (We provide all the tools, but you are also welcome to bring your own)
.5 mechanical pencil
small combo square
cross cut back saw
flat spoke shave
round spoke shave
coarse grain rasp
fine grain rasp
1/2" chisel
3/4" chisel
1-1/2" paring chisel
Attendance Requirements: Students must attend all days
Location: Sam Beauford Woodshop, 1375 N. Main St, Building 41, Adrian, Michigan 49221
Class Size: Maximum 6 students
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If you have any questions about this class, please contact the Administrative Office at (517) 759-3070 or email sambeaufordwoodshop@gmail.com.
Wharton Esherick Music Stand
Wharton Esherick: An American Craftsman
AIA Advance Learner Preparation: None
AIA Approved Learning Units & Type: 40 Elective
AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: 12/06/2025
Official AIA CES Provider Statement: Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10009739. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3). This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.