brent comber: sculpted natural wood

As a fourth generation Vancouverite in a city that is itself barely 150 years old, Brent Comber is definitely a rarity. Vancouver also traces its origins to the lumber industry (specifically the Hastings Mill), so it is entirely appropriate that he makes his living from woodworking. Most of Brent’s pieces are reclaimed or recycled, so his work is not only about honoring the Pacific Northwest’s history but preserving it for future generations.

The overarching theme in Brent’s work is a blending of the urban and natural worlds; above: Originals is a collection of sculpted geometric shapes against natural wood, most of which incorporate slight curves that heighten the sophistication of the pieces. I particularly like the way that the subtle curvature helps to elegantly accentuate the grain of the wood (as opposed to the more savage and primal pieces of chista).

Quad is similarly geometric and a bit more functional as it also serves as a table base. The base features four piece segmentation with a slight twist at the top for added drama. Available in Douglas fir and red cedar with multiple finishes, I definitely prefer it in black with a square glass top (it’s recommended you supply your own).

Both the Alder and Shattered collections reveal beautiful patterns no matter what direction you view them from. The Alder collection is composed of alder rounds, while Shattered is formed from tightly packed shards of wood. In both collections, the relatively ordinary external geometries contrast sharply with the chaotic and fragmented realities within. Psychoanalysis aside: Brent Comber’s work is something I’d love to see in my own home; his website is below if you feel similarly inclined.
brentcomber.com