Miles Gracey
Miles Gracey, an artisan with a background in fine art and two years of study at The Krenov School, brings a playful quality to his furniture pieces that blurs the lines between function and art. His craftsmanship is impeccable, characterized by extraordinary attention to detail and flawless execution of complex ideas.
Each of Miles's creations is an exploration into the interplay between form and function. With precision and skill, he brings his visions to life, captivating the viewer's imagination. Beyond mere furniture, his work becomes a journey of discovery.
Inspiration for Miles often arises from personal connections and everyday encounters. Whether sparked by a chance encounter or a moment of sensory stimulation, each piece tells a story. For example, a friend's choice of rosy, summery perfume might unexpectedly inspire a new design for a cabinet. It is through these intimate connections that Miles finds the wellspring of inspiration for his creations.
Background
Intrigued by various forms of creative expression, Miles explored music composition in San Luis Obispo before shifting to graphic design in Los Angeles. However, the allure of fine art eventually drew him in during his time at art school and working for artists and galleries. Yet, disillusionment set in as he witnessed the inner workings of the art world, prompting a change in direction.
Miles's woodworking journey began when he decided to build a desk, leading him to his uncle's woodshop where he discovered his passion for woodworking. He further honed his skills during his two years at the Krenov School of Fine Furniture, allowing him to fully express his creative instincts.
Having participated in various creative residencies across the country, including stints at the Haystack School of Crafts in Maine, The Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Rockport, and the Center for Contemporary Craft in Houston, TX, Miles continues to expand his artistic horizons. As he establishes his own practice in Detroit, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of his craft and exploring new artistic territories.
“The work, for me, is more about investigating and curiosity, so nothing is really planned until it happens.”
Tell us about your design process. My process is sort of embarrassing. I’ll make some doodles of shapes first—usually what’s in my mind is a song or a feeling. Once I have a shape I find interesting, I’ll hold it in my head for a few weeks, translating it into furniture. I try to forget everything I know about furniture that came before and ‘reinvent the wheel’ with every new piece. I make a bad mock-up or two, mostly to get the scale right, but that’s about it. The work, for me, is more about investigating and curiosity, so nothing is really planned until it happens. I like the spontaneity, something James Krenov referred to in his own practice as ‘composing.’ Composing has to do with listening and guiding—with a light touch.
What inspires the work you make? Oftentimes it's people I know that inspire my work. Just the other day, a friend was wearing some rosy, summery perfume when I thought to myself, ‘that gives me an idea for a cabinet.’
What is your definition of handmade? I used to get so frustrated in art galleries—with how I wasn’t allowed to touch anything. Maybe that was the initial allure of the tactile arts, you could actually relate to them as opposed to passively viewing. My imagination went wild! I’m currently working on furniture you can auditorily interact with, as well as stimulating the olfactory system.
Why do you make? Honestly, I can't help it. Recently I spent some time in the woods not woodworking and my head filled up with ideas for future projects. Once the tap was again opened, my cup runneth over.
Any interesting exhibitions you’ve been part of? I co-curated a show in LA, ‘Threads from the Krenov School,’ that blurred the lines between sculpture and the functional arts.
What’s your favorite wood? I’m not picky, though I’ve been referred to as a bit of an ‘ebonista.’
Do you have any pets? I have a dog named Sophie who is becoming well known in certain furniture circles. The ease at which she ‘shapes’ wood with her teeth leaves me envious and terrified all at once.
