Renewal is at the heart of Richard Haining’s artistic practice. Based in Brooklyn, this artist and designer creates elegant vessels and functional items using reclaimed wood sourced from local workshops and buildings slated for demolition. Haining’s work is characterized by a deep respect for the material and its history, with a keen eye for the beauty in signs of wear and former uses.
In his ongoing series titled STACKED, Haining arranges small offcuts of wood into intuitively laid grids. Using tools like angle grinders and hand tools, he smooths out jagged edges to create the soft, sleek forms that have become synonymous with his work. The inspiration for Haining’s creations comes from a diverse range of sources, spanning from Classical Antiquity to East Asian design and 17th-century European craftsmanship. However, his core values remain centered on beauty, craftsmanship, and environmental mindfulness.
By juxtaposing repurposed “low-value” materials with “high-art” forms, Haining challenges viewers to reconsider the true value of objects. He aims to spark conversations about sustainability and demonstrate that art, craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously. The result is a body of work that showcases the beauty that can emerge from unexpected places.
Currently, Haining is participating in two group exhibitions in New York. One is at Lyle Gallery until April 20, while the other, Paraphernalia Exhibition: Desire, will open on May 7. For the latest updates on his work, you can follow him on Instagram.
Haining’s pieces, such as wooden vessels and light fixtures made from stacked wood pieces, reflect his commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Each item tells a story of renewal and transformation, embodying the artist’s belief that beauty can be found in the most unlikely places.
If stories and artists like Richard Haining’s matter to you, consider becoming a Colossal Member to support independent arts publishing. As a member, you can enjoy benefits like ad-free browsing, saving your favorite articles, discounts in the Colossal Shop, exclusive newsletters, and the opportunity to contribute 1% towards art supplies for K-12 classrooms.
In conclusion, Richard Haining’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of materials that others may overlook. Through his creations, he invites us to see the beauty in sustainability and craftsmanship, urging us to rethink our perceptions of value and artistry.
