Biography

When I’m asked how much time is needed to make a piece of furniture, I give the construction time. But that does not account for my personal experience, centuries of woodworking tradition, or the life span of the trees that I shape. For me, it began at age 4 or 5 in my father’s basement shop in Casper, Wyoming. He taught me about wood grain and sanding, how to start a saw cut, and my favorite, nailing stuff together. The lessons that most guide me were about finding passion in life, striving to achieve my best, and maintaining a ‘can do’ attitude.

Despite this early opportunity, I never thought of myself as being creative or having artistic ability. My university career focused on engineering, applied physics, and digital design. Elegance was part of the equation……but I was far from the art arena. During the years of study, I worked part time building custom cabinetry and basic furniture. The work made me feel like I was a pretty solid artisan.  

Early on, my interest in furniture was increasing. I rebuilt and repaired a very clever antique…..a combination curio cabinet, writing desk, and rolling wine service. Badly abused with peeling veneer, it otherwise worked perfectly. Taking it apart, I was struck by the clever design, expert craftsmanship, and how strong it was despite its lightness. Deep inside, I found the builder’s signature, written in chalk, obviously a sign of pride, but hidden on a panel inside the construction. The thought that an object could be built so well as to outlive its creator touched me.

My creative spirit fully awakened years later when I attended the American Craft Council show in San Francisco. The amazing work on display was a revelation and humbled me. Inspired, I began drawing and occasionally building furniture. Years passed and my passion grew. I honed my skills, bought some usable tools and began to think about making furniture full time. I dreamt of a modern style that maximized the natural strength of wood while compensating for the weaknesses. Less material could be used and yet overall strength would increase. My engineering background could become as great a tool as my experience in cabinetry and the generations of woodworking tradition.

I took my first halting steps toward artistry in 2003. By 2005, having won two best in show awards, I committed to Scott Stewart Designs full time. My skills constantly evolve with the challenges I encounter. I continue to add to my body of original work  and enjoy exploring new paths I find via commissions.