In a world of overly processed everything, I find myself longing for and seeking out the unique, the bespoke, the wonderfully handmade. It was in this search that I came across NY designer Brad Ford’s passionate artisan pursuit Field + Supply, a modern maker’s craft fair highlighting goods old and new from studios and workshops producing a wide range of goods.
Field + Supply represents many of the finest furniture makers in the country, exclusively partnering with makers who have a keen eye for detail and who take great care to ensure each piece is made to last. It all makes for a phenomenal weekend of exploring the richness of the Hudson Valley and the artistry of these modern makers. Held twice a year in the Hutton Brickyards, the fair draws thousands of visitors including some of NY’s top design talent.
Field + Supply, Hudson Valley Craft Fair
The goods created by these artisans give us a sense of time, place, and history, reconnecting with the raw materials and the work that goes into them. Like furniture maker (near and dear to my heart) Michael Robbins, you can see the love that goes into each piece. And can’t we all use a little more love?!
Michael Robbins Ranger Bench
A new favorite maker on the scene is Connor McGinn of Connor McGinn Studios. Connor transitioned from fine-dining farm-to-table chef to ceramicist in 2016; his process is influenced by hospitality and community. Each piece is sculpted at his new studio Tarrytown, NY in collaboration with chefs, cooks, servers, and diners in mind to create an artful canvas for food.
I’m always fascinated by the talent and drive it takes to be one of these makers, as many have left their seemingly comfortable careers to pursue a passion for creation. One of the responsibilities we take seriously is to educate our clients on the beauty and benefits of handmade goods over mass produced. To truly value what we own, we must value the process, the materials, and the story behind the pieces in our own homes. This is what makes a chair become an heirloom.
With the year we are having, it is wonderful to know that “the show will go on”! Although 100% online, Field + Supply will still allow us to explore the new, the unexpected, and most of all beautiful!
The Historic Hutton Brickyards, Kingston, NY