Crazy for Cardboard

Brian Gladwell

Console Table by Brian Gladwell, cardboard and mahogany veneer, 2009detail

June 4 - 8

Cardboard is an abundant, non-precious material that invites experimentation with surface, volume, pattern and form. Participants in this course explore the design opportunities inherent in double-wall cardboard by creating functional and sculptural furniture—not just by folding cardboard into boxes, but also by cutting, joining, laminating, stacking, and carving it to discover unexpected ideas and objects.

Brian offers instruction in simple techniques for cutting and assembly that allow wide latitude for imagination, including decorative edge patterning, color effects, and finishes. In addition to a cutting fixture of Brian's design, students work with the table saw, band saw, vacuum press, clamps, random orbital sander, and angle grinders. Each student conceives, designs, and constructs one or two projects, such as small tables, cabinets, wall consoles, or shelves. Wood elements may be incorporated for mounting hardware or hanging.

Brian Gladwell is a longtime furniture maker in Regina, Saskatchewan and teaches woodworking at the Balkwill Civic Art Centre, where he is a Resident Artist. His work ranges from functional furniture made on commission to sculptural work presented through galleries. The latter often challenges furniture conventions by using unexpected materials such as corrugated cardboard and oriented-strand board. Brian has exhibited his furniture in museum exhibitions nationally and internationally, and it is included in major public and private collections. He has been honored with grants from the Canada Council and Saskatchewan Arts Board, and is a past president of The Furniture Society. His website is briangladwell.com.

Previous woodworking experience is suggested, but not required.

Tuition: $695

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