Woodworkers' Monthly Presentation: George Nakashima's Life and Work

Join us at the Lynwood Theater on Bainbridge Island to see “George Nakashima, Woodworker,” a documentary about a Northwest native who became one of the most influential woodworkers of the 20th century. 

John Nakashima, George Nakashima's nephew and the director of this award-winning film, will answer questions immediately after the showing. This evening event is open to all.

George Nakashima, who was born in Spokane in 1905 and grew up in Seattle, spent summers as a teen along the Hoh River, adjacent mountains, and rainforests. These experiences shaped his work throughout his lifetime. He obtained a bachelor of  architecture degree at the University of Washington and a master of architecture from MIT. He later traveled and worked extensively in France, North Africa, Japan, and India. He returned to the United States in 1940 but, like many other U.S. citizens of Japanese ancestry, was interned during World War II. After his release from the Minidoka internment camp in Hunt, Idaho. he moved to Bucks County, Penn., where he lived until his death in 1990.

Nakashima was a leading furniture designer and woodworker who specialized in making pieces of solid wood, often ones that incorporated crazy grain, bark edges, or other evidence of the lives of the trees. His pieces are in many museum collections and the Japanese Guest House at Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island. Nakashima’s home, studio, and workshop are designated as a National Historic Landmark.

The film isn't just about woodworking and the exquisite furniture Nakashima designed. As a website about the film makes clear, even non-woodworkers are likely to be inspired by his journey in developing both his woodworking skills and his philosophy of life.

Details

• The theater is handling ticket sales. Advanced tickets can be purchased at farawayentertainment.com. Click on the date, April 12, then the time.
• Tickets cost $10 and include free popcorn.
• Headsets are available for improved hearing.