About

Damian Velasquez

I began my career as an artist in the realm of jewelry. My father taught me how to solder sterling silver. I was a quick kinesthetic and visual learner so I quickly had produced a small inventory of rings, earrings, belt buckles, and bracelets. I sold my first crafts while I was still in school.

I moved from jewelry to furniture out of necessity - futon and bed frames kicked off that journey. Soon I had friends asking for custom sizes and I was able to use the small profits from one project and invest in better tools to be able to make better furniture. I started experimenting with other pieces like tables, chairs, and candlesticks.

My career really flourished after I backpacked through Europe - particularly Italy. I was exposed to a different design and way of life. I brought as much of that experience home with me and began finding my groove in steel and wood furniture. My signature design became 3/4 inch square tube brushed perfectly at the joints. This required good welding. I then inlaid wood panels to create a very simple, elegant, and modern design. My range expanded to include dining sets, dressers, media cabinets, beds, desks, and night stands.

I sold my work at art shows across the country for decades. I received numerous design awards at craft fairs and eventually served on the board of American Craft Council.

For me, designing is all about visualizing and problem solving. I excel at contract fabrication because I can quickly visualize a project in high detail and analyze the potential challenges. Once I finalize the design I get to use my hands and my kinesthetic talents to bring my visual model to life. All the while keeping the client in mind by applying economy of design to everything I do.