On the Edge of Your Seat

Over 200 photos plus insightful essays from a variety of perspectives celebrate the chairthe centerpiece of furniture arts over the course of American furniture makingin this inspiring showcase of45 works from 39 artists. These chairs, benches, and stools are sculptural, conceptual, functional (and occasionally dysfunctional) seating, reflecting the dramatic latest evolution since the storied history of chairmaking in Philadelphia. Statements by each of the artists offer their sources of inspiration and creativity. The chairs, set against the backdrop of theworld’s mass-production and petroleum-based materials, stand as abeacon to the vitality and critical importance ofindependent artisans and designers in raising the bar of excellence in thebuiltworld. A one-of-a-kind history of Philadelphia chair design, with full-page images of 40 historic chairs, is also featured. Compiled by Joshua Lane, the Lois F. and Henry S. McNeil Curator of Furniture, Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, it details their evolution and makers, and their significance in furniture history.[AuthorName]By The Center for Art in Wood[/AuthorName][AuthorBio]The Center for Art in Wood is a nonprofit arts and educationalinstitution in Philadelphia that features international contemporary artmade from wood in changing exhibits, a museum collection showing thebreadth of art created from wood, and a research library.[/AuthorBio][NumIllustration]211 color & b/w images[/NumIllustration][CoAuthor][/CoAuthor][SubTitle]Chairs for the 21st Century[/SubTitle][ColorPattern]211 color & b/w images[/ColorPattern]