The Art and Craft of David Cutchin’s Deadwood Frames
In a world where trees are often seen as expendable once their life has faded, David Cutchin’s deadwood frames offer a new lease on life to the forgotten remnants of nature. As Cutchin shares in his creative process, the deadwood he works with tells a story—a perpetual story of life that has left the living organism behind, leaving only a shell, frozen in time. For Cutchin, the challenge isn’t just creating a frame; it’s about reviving the beauty of a dead tree and giving it a second chance to be appreciated, to be something more than discarded material.
"When I see the tree, it's gnarly in bonsai, but when the life has gone from it, it just kind of looks like a mess," Cutchin explains. "I hate the idea of these just being discarded, disposed of. A living tree, you can almost have a second chance with it. But a dead tree? This is its second chance."
Through his unique work, David Cutchin merges modern architectural lines with deadwood’s organic forms, creating timeless pieces that showcase the collision of nature and mankind. The natural textures of the wood, weathered by time, and the precision of the man-made frame combine to create something entirely new—an art form that celebrates the beauty in decay and the potential for renewal.
Cutchin’s deadwood frames are not merely objects; they are a material identity inherited from nature’s autobiography, a blend of Americana craftsmanship and modern architectural aesthetics. With each piece, he strives to make the tree beautiful again, offering a visual representation of how nature and humanity can intersect in ways that are both contrasting and harmonious.
As Cutchin’s work evolves, the binding power of the natural form and architectural lines will continue to expand, embracing both juxtaposition and fluidity in ways that challenge our perceptions of art and nature.
At Mirai, we are honored to share these extraordinary pieces with you, providing deadwood frames that not only capture the history and essence of nature but also offer a lasting, cherished connection to the past. These frames, once a discarded piece of history, now stand as timeless expressions of beauty and artistry.
Explore and purchase David Cutchin’s deadwood frames to bring a piece of timeless artistry into your space.
Watch here to enjoy the creative process and learn more about the making of these remarkable deadwood frames.
