The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Handmade chairs at alumni show
WINSTED — Andrew Jack’s handmade Windsor chairs can be seen in the gallery at Northwestern Connecticut Community College’s Founders Hall, through Feb. 17.
An opening reception will be held from 3-5 p.m. Feb. 6, with refreshments. The public is welcome. Andrew Jack, a 2004 NCCC graduate and a 2008 graduate of SUNY Purchase, has made handmade Windsor chairs for the last 10 years. These chairs are produced from a freshly cut log, utilizing specialized joinery techniques to ensure heirloom longevity.
His process relies on the use of sharp hand tools for every part of each chair. Tool marks are left wherever possible to invite the hand and eye. Jack makes Windsor chairs using a blend of contemporary and traditional techniques.
He also carves wooden utensils using traditional Slojd processes. Working with green wood and hand tools allows these= handmade chairs and woodenware to appear and feel light and delicate, while maintaining the strength of a tree, he said.
The artist’s methods are sound and sustainable because they require minimal electricity, they honor the integrity of a tree, they create byproducts that are easily recycled with an heirloom quality that will last for generations.
To learn more about Jack’s work, go to https:// www.andrewjack.net/
The Art Department offers an array of credit courses leading to an associate in science degree or certificates. Students may choose to specialize in graphic design, digital media, or fine arts (drawing, painting, ceramics, and sculpture), as they progress in the art program. Certificate programs are available in Fine Arts and Graphic Design. For more information about Northwestern Connecticut Community College Art Department’s programs, contact Professor Janet Nesteruk at Jnesteruk@nwcc.edu or Professor Sue Berg at Sberg@nwcc.edu.