Liz Phillips

Somerville, MA

Nelson a la mode, 2008

Cherry and ebonized cherry

60"x23⅜"x17½"

Photo by Lori Anderson

When I was sketching designs during the 9-month program at CFC, sometimes I’d come up with an “original" idea, only to see something similar in a design or furniture book. I’d be inclined to go back to the drawing board, not wanting to copy anyone else’s work. Instructor David Upfill-Brown would just laugh, and remind me of the obvious: We borrow all the time from what’s come before, whether it’s conscious or unconscious. (In a more succinct mood, he might say, “There’s nothing new under the sun, Liz.")  I took that borrowing concept to heart with this table, which is a salute to American modernist designer George Nelson and his famous slat bench/coffee table. Thanks Mr. Nelson. Thanks David. – Liz Phillips