Hosted by the ICAA Philadelphia Chapter
A two-part presentation exploring classic design from an artisan鈥檚 perspective.
Part II 鈥� Sticks, Strings & Symmetry: Geometry in the Minds & Tools of our Craft Tradition with Jim Tolpin.
Jim Tolpin shares a journey into the geometry that lies beneath everything in the built world and how our tools on the jobsite reflect those invisible truths of geometry. He鈥檒l share how the historic trades harnessed this knowledge of geometry to invent efficient layout and production methods that we still use today. Of course, in modern times, much of these truths of geometry are embedded in tools using lasers and digital readouts. Yet, a practical knowledge of this artisan geometry is still a valuable skill for tackling jobsite problems.
About the presenters:
Jim Tolpin began working as a finish carpenter in the early 1970鈥檚 in New England before moving to the Northwest near Seattle Washington. He set up a workshop making custom cabinets and contracting finished carpentry. He also worked as a subcontractor on wooden boat interiors in the Port Townsend Boatyards.
George Walker also began a career in the 1970鈥檚 working in the trades in the metalworking industry in Ohio. In addition he took up furniture building as a hobby and became an avid woodworker.
Although these vocations may seem far apart, Tolpin and Walker had a shared passion. They both were curious about how artisans in the historic trades approached design. This search for answers led to Tolpin and Walker writing four books published by Lost Art Press and scores of articles for woodworking magazines and journals. They focussed on uncovering the practical knowledge of geometry and proportions at the heart of our craft tradition. Their method: Scour historic books for clues and put them into practice in their workshops. This often meant setting aside their tape measures and modern mindset to see what lies hidden in plain sight. The result, a long string of discovery gleaned at the workbench or often jumping off the tips of divider points. Old knowledge filled with timeless wisdom for today鈥檚 builders.
This event is hosted by an ICAA Chapter. Please check the Chapter website or contact the Chapter directly for the most up-to-date details including dates, times, and pricing.