Peg Woodworking - Kate Casey

It was love at first sight. I knew it. Matt knew it. And that room divider knew it- we'd be together for many years to come. All I had to do then was meet its maker.

Kate Casey didn't disappoint. A serious artist and craftswoman, Kate's work will be around for a long time. The woman herself is a study of a young designer. With a background in fine arts and sculpture, Kate made the sometimes hard to grasp move from sculpting to furniture design. A true artist and woodworker, Kate uses her understanding of form, structure, and her experience in making things that last, in every piece she makes. Her work is rich in texture, rooted in fine furniture making, and Danish cording techniques. The overall feel of it is light and fresh, not dissimilar to its designer's disposition.

When we met, I recall you telling me about your dad and how supportive he is of you and your work. Is there a story you can tell us about your dad that illustrates your relationship?

My dad tells this story (fairly regularly) about 'the only time Kate ever got mad at me'. It takes place about 8 years ago when I had just graduated from college and was moving out of my apartment. My dad volunteered to help me move, as he had all of the previous 4 times in 4 years. He picked up a moving truck, helped me pack it up with all of the unnecessary acquisitions of a 21 year old and drove it the 3 hours to its final destination. It was summer in Boston and I lived in a 3 story walk up with a narrow staircase. The issue arose because we were not simply moving out my furniture and belongings but my studio as well. I had just graduated from art school and had a large number of poorly constructed sculptures that could not be left behind. It was while hoisting one of these unnecessarily heavy sculptures into the truck he got a bad hold on it and broke it. The sculpture was made out of foam and plywood it was clearly not built to last but I was hot, hungry and tired and I yelled at him. I remember how bad I felt for reacting like that but a lunchless day spent moving will make you forgo certain social graces.

This story is important to me for a few reasons: my dad was there every time I needed him or even might need him. He respected the work I did even if he didn't fully understand it all the time. but most importantly I don't think that instance was the only time I've ever been upset with my dad, we've had our fights just like every father and daughter. But that is the only time he remembers because he broke something that I made, and he loves and respects what I do so to him that's the only time that stands out.

My dad is one of my biggest advocates, he doesn't believe I can fail so I do everything I can to live up to that.