Woodworkers Naples: April 2014

Love Me, Love Me Not Table
8 white oak petal side tables form a full sculptural flower. The original design by John Vogel & Justin Plunkett has been recreated at Woodworkers Naples for clients by master craftsman extraordinaire, CRAIG BROWN.

Craig is a passionate, self-taught woodworking craftsman, with over 30 years of knowledge and experience. As a child, he watched his father and grandfather enjoying woodworking as a hobby. The inspiring book by James Krenov, 'A Cabinetmaker's Notebook' (1976), which explores cabinetmaking as an art, philosophy and way of life, ultimately inspired Craig to pursue cabinetmaking as his career.

In 1983, he opened a workshop in Elk Rapids, Michigan building local commercial and residential architectural woodwork, furniture and intricate floor inlays. He also designed and built beautifully handcrafted fine wooden jewelry boxes for 20 years, which were sold at 150 prestigious art galleries globally - from London to New York, to right here in Naples! ps. Even Oprah herself personally purchased one of his jewelry boxes!

Craig also handcrafted elegant fly fishing accessories, such as wooden fly boxes crafted from walnut, lacewood, bubinga, cherry and African mahogany with inlays of exotic woods such as rosewoods and ebonies, to protect valuable flies. His flawless landing nets for fly fishermen made of hickory and ash also sold internationally at over 70 locations. His functional art and skill garnered much attention and his work was published in 'The Sporting Craftsmen', by Art Carter. This complete guide represents the best contemporary makers of custom-built sporting equipment available.

Incredibly versatile and talented, sincere and genuine, Craig has been with Woodworkers for 4 years and is always willing to share his extensive knowledge and experience with the team. His latest work, the Love Me, Love Me Not table, is a sculptural adaptive, elegant and playful work of art, beautifully exploring organic form.