Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Oliver Harper. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Oliver, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
The journey to mastering a craft is never linear, and for me, it started with curiosity and a lot of trial and error. From a young age, I was fascinated by the idea of creating something out of nothing. My interest in woodworking came from watching my grandfather patiently carve intricate designs.
Learning the art of woodworking wasn’t just about perfecting my skills but understanding the patience and dedication it takes to bring a vision to life. Over the years, I’ve learned to embrace mistakes as a critical part of the process, and I continually challenge myself to refine my techniques.
Oliver, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Oliver Harper, a furniture designer and artisan based in Portland, Oregon. What began as a hobby in my garage has now turned into a thriving business that focuses on crafting bespoke furniture pieces. Each piece I create tells a story, blending traditional techniques with modern aesthetics.
My goal is to design furniture that is both functional and timeless. I work closely with clients to ensure that every creation aligns with their needs and vision, while also incorporating sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One of the challenges is explaining the emotional connection I have with my work. Creating isn’t just about producing something tangible; it’s a deeply personal process that requires heart and soul.
People sometimes underestimate the time and effort it takes to perfect a design or the joy of watching raw materials transform into something beautiful. It’s not just a job—it’s a calling, and that can be hard for some to grasp.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
“The Soul of a Tree” by George Nakashima was transformative for me. It’s more than a book about woodworking; it’s a reflection on the spiritual connection between the craftsman and the materials.
Additionally, I’ve found immense value in online communities of artisans who share their experiences and techniques. There’s so much to learn when we open ourselves to collaboration and shared knowledge.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.oliverharperfurniture.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliverharperdesigns/
