"Forest Tissue Box"

Brian Reid

"What I love about my parquetry patterns is how they awaken multiple associations and visual memories within the people who view my work."

Brian Reid is increasingly interested in parquetry--the creation of geometric patterns using thin slices of wood (also known as veneers). The artist especially enjoys the meditative quality of his work: He can spend weeks at a time sitting at his 1930s scroll saw, which sounds like an old sewing machine, cutting up multiple species of veneer that will eventually coalesce into a pattern. Reid finds the technique creative and immediately gratifying, as his colorful and symmetrical patterns evolve quickly.

As a pattern takes shape, Reid is often struck by a multitude of cultural references, the influence of which can be seen in many of his works. Recently, the artist has sought inspiration in quilting patterns and the fabric and wallpaper of classic modernism.