HIGH POINT, N.C., April 28, 2015 – Modern day furniture workers will be spotlighted in a photography exhibit created by High Point University students that will go on display at the High Point Museum. The exhibit kicks off with a reception at 10 a.m. on April 30 at the High Point Museum to unveil the student’s work they did throughout the semester entitled “Hands behind the Craft,” it will be on display through July 30.
The service learning photography class led by Benita VanWinkle, assistant professor of art, embraced the Piedmont Triad’s heritage in furniture manufacturing by photographing the individuals who build furniture in and around High Point. At the reception, the students will speak about what they have learned as well as answer questions regarding their role in preserving this history.
“Once the students were inside of a factory, they understood the craftsmanship and skills that are needed to create furniture; one piece, one sewing machine, one person at a time,” says VanWinkle. “This helped the students realize just how talented the people are that make the furniture.”
“Knowing that our photos will be on display at the High Point Museum is such a gratifying feeling,” says HPU student Kelly Schwab. “The furniture industry is such an important part of this city and I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to document it.”
The students have gone to various furniture factories, such as Braxton Culler, Baker Furniture and Edward Ferrell/Lewis Mittman Furniture to see first-hand what the furniture artisans are making. They have learned about how furniture is made, sold and distributed by talking to the employees, the owners and performing research. They also learned about the economy and culture of the industry.
“I am humbled and honored to have gone on this journey of discovery with these students. As they have said to me several times, this course has made them really connect with High Point as a city, more than just the place they go to school,” says VanWinkle. “They feel as if they are taking a part of North Carolina with them, and more importantly, leaving a part of themselves behind to benefit others in the future. That is what this course was all about, making that connection to real people, real skills, real photos that could change the way other people view the area.”