December 11, 2015
Hendley Hard Goods
Maker Spotlight
Seattle, we are coming for you in just one week and we can’t wait to meet new friends as well as see old pals! Gwen Gunheim of Hendley Hard Goods will be bringing these wooden beauties to Hangar 30 in Magnuson Park, and we can’t to see them up close!
Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting history behind?
Hendley is the name of the street I live on. So much of my work is about place, where an object comes from, it seemed fitting.
Have you always been passionate about design?
Yes! I come from a family of artists so art, craft, and design was all around.
When/Why did you start working in this particular craft/field?
Years ago a house my great grandfather built burned down and I was fortunate enough to salvage some of the wood and in an attempt to bring it back to life, I taught myself woodcraft.
What do you think sets your designs apart from others?
The life of the wood my work is made from and the life my pieces will have is at the forefront of my work. Bringing a discarded thing back to life and creating something that will last a lifetime.
How does the city you live in influence your work?
My materials are found, so they come, primarily from my town, and surrounding towns.
What are some inspirations for your work?
The desire to create deep connections. To connect one to the piece, where it came from and what it is and to connect people to each other. I like to imagine people, gathered around my work, to make or serve a meal, to share.
What are some tips or suggestions you’d like to offer to fellow makers?
Just Work. Show up and pay attention!
We can’t get over the grain on these boards! Mark your calendars for our Seattle Holiday Fair and check out Hendley’s Hard Goods online here: