by Spider Johnson and Cindy Goldman
Wenge, Natural and Dyed Wood Veneers
30” W x 17.5” D x 57” H
As we approached the concept of our piece for this show, we wanted the marquetry to tell a familiar story that wound its way from the left side to across the front and to the left side. This standing cabinet was inspired by Lewis Carroll’s famous 1865 novel, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Carroll wrote the story at the prodding of his friend Alice Liddell after he told her daughters a simplified version of the subsequent novel.
Our "Reality-Altering Substances Cabinet" features tambour doors, which we have previously incorporated in other art pieces. Rarely seen in marquetry applications, they provide a surprising and delightful experience as well as easy access to the cabinet.
As the doors are opened, the viewer is drawn further into the psychedelic world of Wonderland, and the hidden shelf reveals yet another surprise.
by Spider Johnson and Cindy Goldman
Natural and Dyed Wood Veneers
46" W x 1" D x 18" H
President Lyndon Johnson's family ranch is located 45 minutes west of Austin. The President met with his cabinet under an enormous Texas Live Oak tree, that came to be known as the Cabinet Oak.
When the tree lost a huge branch is 2022, the managers of the property decided to cut the branch into sections, and invite select artists to create a piece of art from the wood. The pieces would then be held at auction, with a portion of the sale price going to benefit the upkeep of the ranch. After a portfolio review of more than 600 artists, 42 were chosen. We were thrilled to be asked to participate.
Our piece was the only one in the show with a focus on the President's wife, Ladybird Johnson, who single handedly created the Wildflower project to beautify Texas Highways and parks. For this reason, we chose to celebrate Ladybird. The piece was purchased by their daughter, Linda, and now belongs to the Johnson family.
by Spider Johnson and Cindy Goldman
Natural and Dyed Wood Veneers
This piece, inspired by Tibetan prayer wheels, is an installation at a residence for people living with HIV. Each wheel is inscribed with an uplifting wish that can be offered up by spinning it, for use by visitors and residents alike.
by Spider Johnson and Cindy Goldman
Camphor Burl, Natural and Dyed Wood Veneers
10" D X 12" W X 29" H
There are two transitions expressed in this piece: From the raw wood at the bottom, up through the sculpted base to the refined cabinet with meticulous wood marquetry.
The second transition is revealed as the cabinet is opened, which moves the viewer from Autumn into the Spring.
Pedestal: Sculpted & Stained Laminated Poplar
Case: Camphor Burl Veneer
Interior Marquetry: Dyed & Composite veneer Underside: Makore Veneer
Face Frame: Stained Walnut
Floral Fabric Interior
Live Edge Bluethorn Knob.
Tambour: Dyed and Natural Wood Veneer Marquetry
Free Leaf: Laurel Burl
Signature Plaque: Satinwood, Imbuya Burl and Dyed Wood Veneer Marquetry