Hem X Fredrik Sahlström: For the love of wood
Fura by Fredrik Sahlström is a seamless fusion of digital innovation and organic craftsmanship. Created digitally, Fura is coming to life by meticulously CNC'd pine wood. Each piece is a testament to precision, with two perfectly mirrored sides that become a quirky figure that almost breathes with life. The final hand-oiled touch gives Fura a lustrous finish. Sturdy yet alive, it is an intelligent conversation piece, a celebration of artistry, that takes you into a world in which tradition and innovation coexist.
Curated by Arranging Things, Fura comes in a hand-signed limited edition of 10, made exclusively for Hem. As each piece is handmade, individual differences will occur, making it a unique and one-of-a-kind product.
Tell us about Fura.
Wood has perpetually been my muse, and my passion lies in encapsulating the unique essence of this material. In the Fura collection, even though sculptures share a common form, the distinctive core and tree grains ensure each piece retains its individuality. The name itself, “Fura ”, is a nod to the inherent uniqueness that wood imparts, allowing each sculpture to stand as a distinct and singular entity.
How do you design a piece like this?
My point of departure lies within the realm of materiality. How might I induce materials to evoke sensations or perceptions distinct from the anticipated? How can I elevate materials to unveil their intrinsic characters? These are things that I’m interested in and always trying to apply to my work.
Have you used these manufacturing methods and materials previously?
I recently ventured into the realm of CNC milling, having acquired the machine earlier this year. Despite my prior experience working extensively with wood and employing more traditional crafting methods, delving into the digital aspect is a newfound exploration. My journey began with a desire to translate digital creations into tangible pieces, seamlessly blending the warmth of wood with a contemporary digital aesthetic.
“Wood has perpetually been my muse and my passion lies in encapsulating the unique essence of this material.”
What was most challenging about this project?
I have never delved into mass production, my artistic inclination leans toward crafting unique pieces. Each creation, for me, is a journey of discovery, finding a treasure. The beauty of working with a material like wood lies in its inherent uniqueness—every piece, even if sharing a similar shape, retains its individuality.
Did you have a specific environment in mind for Fura?
Where Fura is placed is up to each individual. It’s a sculpture that ages and evolves, becoming increasingly refined with each passing year. It’s a reminder of time.