Born in 1932 in Emporia, Kansas. Wendell Castle has been creating unique works of handmade sculpture and furniture for more than four decades, and his dreamlike pieces have challenged established rules of function and design. He pioneered the use of stack-lamination, which removed technical barriers and allowed a new level of formal experimentation. This landmark development has also contributed to his status as one of the fathers of the modern American studio furniture movement. His iconic work in wood and fiberglass represents some of the most innovative and influential design of the 20th century. As one of the most celebrated American designer-craftsmen, Castle is represented in more than 50 major museum and corporate collections throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. His awards include three honorary doctorate degrees and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Brooklyn Museum (2007). Wendell Castle maintains a studio in Scottsville, New York. He received the American Craft Council’s Gold Medal in 1997.