The Art and Legacy of Nakashima Woodworkers
The Andersen Horticultural Library is home to the largest publicly accessible collection of George and Mira Nakashima furniture. In celebration of its 50th year, the Library is hosting a weekend of special events surrounding the stunning collection of Nakashima furniture including a film screening of “George Nakashima, Woodworker,” by his nephew John Nakashima, and a special lecture by Mira Nakashima, daughter of George and Creative Director of Nakashima Woodworkers. Learn more and reserve tickets below!
Special Events
These events are presented by Andersen Horticultural Library and Friends of the Andersen Horticultural Library.
George Nakashima, Woodworker film screening with John Nakashima
Friday, July 12 from 7-9:30 p.m.
MacMillan Auditorium
George Nakashima came to his creative work after a long spiritual journey to discover meaning for his life. It took him around the world for several years during the Great Depression. He even found opportunity through the confinement of Japanese Americans after Pearl Harbor. Rather than focusing on his craft, this documentary delves deeply into his unique collection of esoteric experiences. It shows how they brought him to originate a new way to honor great trees and make creation a spiritual act. His great love for "imperfect" natural wood and his inspired works made him a seminal woodworker, widely admired and influential to this day.
Woodworking Lecture with Mira Nakashima
Saturday, July 13 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
MacMillan Auditorium
Join us for an enriching lecture with Mira Nakashima as she talks about her journey into the world of woodworking. Explore the legacy of her father, renowned woodworker George Nakashima, as she shares glimpses into his early life, marriage, and their experiences during internment in Minidoka during World War II. From architectural projects to furniture designs, Mira will lead us on a journey through her family's renowned studio, highlighting her own journey from Harvard graduate, to full-time assistant to her father until his passing in 1990, when she became the President and Creative Director. Delve into the rich history of Nakashima’s craftsmanship, celebrated by its inclusion on the Pennsylvania Historic Register, National Historic Register, and the World Monuments Fund list. Join us as we celebrate this legacy of unparalleled dedication to woodworking and design, ensuring its preservation for generations, alongside the largest publicly accessible collection of Nakashima furnishings held at Andersen Horticultural Library.
Ticket Details