Mokuchi Studio Episode 2: Jeff Bearce
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May 3, 2023 Jeff Bearce, founder of Three Sticks Design and a passionate practitioner of Japanese woodworking, shares his unique journey from academia to craft. He discusses the deep cultural significance of 'place' in design and contrasts it with mere 'space.' Jeff also reflects on his early fascination with Japanese tools and the rich community around them. Highlighting the evolving status of artisans in society, he emphasizes the intellectual depth of woodworking and its historical roots. Plus, he teases upcoming talks at the Japanese Woodworking Festival!
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Niche Studio, Big Projects
- Jeff describes Three Sticks Design as mostly a sole-proprietor practice focused on Japanese-style structures and occasional furniture.
- Recent projects include a tea house, a temple interior, and a backyard timber-frame 'groove shack' with a loft.
Placemaking Over Empty Space
- Jeff says his current passion is design and 'placemaking' rather than pure craft or small objects.
- He prefers creating environments that carry cultural and human meaning rather than abstract empty space.
A PhD Student Hired Into Carpentry
- Jeff recounts joining Joinery Structures while in a PhD program after a friend connected him and Paul, the owner, hired him partly because of his religious studies background.
- That job started his path into Japanese woodworking and shifted his career away from academia.