Kumiko is an intricate Japanese art form that uses narrow pieces of wood to create geometric patterns. David Gootnick’s work is a contemporary interpretation of kumiko in which he uses traditional woodworking techniques to create pieces with both modern and ancient motifs. Themes of nature, harmony, and balance provide an intriguing cross-cultural dialogue with the artistic themes of the ancient Parthenon and Greek art.
About the Artist
Gootnick is a Washington, D.C.,-based artist and woodworker. His designs draw from kumiko, a Japanese art form and woodworking technique. Kumiko was developed roughly 1,400 years ago as Buddhist-influenced architecture was brought from mainland Asia to Japan. Today kumiko is most commonly found on ornamental shoji screens and decorative features of traditional Japanese homes.
His contemporary interpretations of kumiko are in the form of functional and decorative art. Gootnick has a deep respect for the medium and experiences his process as an exercise in precision and patience. Through his work, Gootnick hopes to create a vivid visual experience and to add his voice to this ancient art form.