Kevin Reiswig is an artist and craftsperson whose work blurs the line between sculpture and furniture. Using primarily wood, Kevin makes sculptural objects utilizing techniques normally seen in furniture making, boatbuilding, and construction trades. Likewise, the furniture he makes is highly sculptural–intentionally conceptualized and crafted with every surface, angle, and detail in mind. Whatever he is working on, Kevin’s work embodies the highest standards of craftsmanship, design, and sustainability.
Kevin is a student of nature, and considers making to be an essential way of exercising his curiosity about the living world. Part of the way he explores nature is by testing the capabilities and limitations of materials, his body, and his mind. Kevin feels his work can help bring natural connections into people’s homes. Other than nature, Kevin also draws inspiration for his unique creations from people, process, and his own imagination.
Kevin believes the built-environment can and should exist in harmony with nature, and this is why he has made a commitment to sustainable practices within his studio. He uses as much salvaged or repurposed wood as possible; when needed, he purchases only FSC certified wood or locally harvested wood; he primarily uses Earth-friendly finishes; and he plants trees every year to offset his carbon footprint and wood consumption.
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Kevin Reiswig grew up in rural Ohio and attended The College of Wooster, where he graduated with a BA in studio art, focusing on wood sculpture. He is an Anderson Ranch Arts Center alumnus, having worked there both as a summer workshop intern and again as artist-in-residence. Kevin lived in Chicago for seven years, where he worked as an art fabricator, furniture maker, and finish carpenter for Theaster Gates (2011-2015), John Preus (Dilettante Studios), Rebuild Foundation, and others. He has exhibited his creations since 2010, both domestically and abroad. Kevin currently operates his own studio in Port Townsend, Washington, is a faculty instructor at the Port Townsend School of Woodworking, and a member of The Furniture Society.