Dispatch 38: Live Local Love Makers ~ Conrad Freeman

Interview by Jeffrey Roedel • Conrad Freeman of Freeman Handcrafted

Freeman Handcrafted

Conrad Freeman

31

Baton Rouge, LA

As a furniture craftsman who studied sculpture at LSU, Conrad Freeman’s creativity is all about the finishing touch—taking raw materials of the earth and shaping them into artworks of utilitarian and aesthetic beauty. Wonder South spoke to Freeman about his first piece, his upcoming designer line of, and why it’s important to LIVE LOCAL and LOVE MAKERS.

Photo provided by Conrad Freeman.

Do you remember the first piece of furniture you finished? Coming from a sculpture background, how did that experience influence your woodwork? 

Conrad Freeman: The first piece I ever designed and built was a coffee table made out of angle iron and scrap pecan wood. I was submerged in wood and metal sculptures as those were the mediums I worked in so it was a natural transition. At the time, I had no idea how to make furniture, and I think that really was a strength. I didn't see the confines and requirements of what furniture has to be to function. Sculpture is my foundation, and it allows me to see furniture design from a very different perspective than most.

You make custom pieces, but you are working on a line of Freeman Handcrafted furniture. Tell me about your aesthetic and your goals for this line?

CF: So, the line I'm working on is called the Luna Collection. My vision for it is a cohesive collection of pieces that all flow well together or separately. Very simple lines with a few subtle curves here and there. I want the work to feel warm and inviting yet contemporary and bare, no more than what is needed. Its highly influenced by Scandinavian and Danish design.

What types of wood do you work with, is a lot of it local to Louisiana? And which is your favorite for furniture?

CF: I work with walnut, maple, ash, alder, and white oak. Some of those can be found In Louisiana. My favorite woods are walnut and rift sawn white oak. That white oak is so soothing and peaceful, and walnut just looks great in almost any setting.

Photo provided by Conrad Freeman.

What's the most rewarding thing about being a Maker and a creative entrepreneur?

CF: Probably that I'm doing exactly what I feel like I was made to do. I have no doubts about what I should be doing with my life. I'm employed by my own ideas, and every day I do exactly what I want to be doing. It’s challenging, it’s fulfilling, it’s exciting. I love it.

Why is it important to you to support the artists and makers in your community and to buy local?

CF: Supporting the artists and makers creates community and empowers people to do what they love.

Conrad is wearing our white Live Local Love Makers shirt, designed and printed in the USA. Find it in our Store.

#LiveLocalLoveMakers