Furniture maker Bayley Wharton says, “let the wood speak for itself.” Wharton selects wood based on how and why it will be used in a piece of furniture. A natural edge on a slab of walnut, for example, becomes the top of a bench, letting the natural color and shape of the wood be the focal point. Wharton learned furniture making and design at NC State University, Raleigh, NC; a work study at Anderson Ranch, Snowmass Village, CO; and is also self-taught. He lives and works in Mt. Airy, NC.

Artist Statement:

Design integrity in any medium begins with an honest approach towards materials and processes. I place an emphasis on function, strength, and simplicity with a touch of intrigue, while allowing the natural beauty of the wood to stand out. The latter has become my slogan: Let the wood speak for itself.

Some pieces are made in mass, others are one-of-a-kind, but all are designed and built for daily use while being a thing of elegance. Wood is selected according to how and where it will be used within the object, then I use natural finishes (oil & lacquer) rather than stains, so one can see the original color. Rather than nonfunctional ornamentation, I use joinery as a focal point, as well as means of making some of the pieces knockdown.