Xavier Mas
Woodworker
Barcelona, Spain
The tree as a living being
- Xavier places trees at the centre of his woodworking
- He reinterprets traditional woodworking through thoughtful, lasting design
- His practice has a deep respect for natural materials
Xavier Mas' work explores the relationship between art, traditional woodworking and the natural world. After graduating in fine arts from the University of Barcelona, he worked as a visual artist while collaborating with institutions such as MoMA, the Guggenheim and the Joan Miró Foundation. "In 2004, I founded MasFuster, where wood gradually became the centre of my practice," he says. Awarded the title of Master Craftsman cabinetmaker by the Generalitat de Catalunya, Xavier works almost exclusively with local trees, many of which he harvests, mills and dries himself. Inspired by George Nakashima and James Krenov, he creates furniture pieces that respect the character of each tree, combining traditional craftsmanship with a quiet, contemporary approach to making.
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INTERVIEW
Everything starts with the tree. I try to understand where the wood comes from and what it has experienced before I begin working. When the tree's life remains present in the finished piece, craftsmanship naturally becomes a form of art.
My strongest connection to place comes through the trees themselves. I harvest, mill and dry local timber before transforming it into furniture. Working so closely with the material creates a direct relationship with the landscape and with the traditions of my region.
Innovation is not about using more technology, it is about knowing when and why to use it. Tools can improve the process, but they should never distance us from the tree and its natural qualities. Innovation means evolving the craft without losing sight of what truly matters.
I began woodworking to support my practice as a visual artist, but over time, I realised that the workshop is where I truly belong. I found in wood a more honest way of working, one that values patience, permanence and the quiet satisfaction of making objects that will outlive us.
Xavier Mas
Woodworker
Barcelona, Spain
ADDRESS
Address upon request, Barcelona, Spain
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
LANGUAGES
Catalan
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