Yuri Kobayashi, a sculptor and furniture maker based in Rockport, Maine, brings a wealth of expertise honed through diverse educational and professional experiences. Originating from Japan, she holds a B.A. in architectural design from Musashino Art University and a woodworking certificate from Shinrin Takumi Juku. Also, she earned an M.F.A. in furniture design at San Diego State University, where she studied under Wendy Murayama. With over a decade of teaching experience at the Rhode Island School of Design, Yuri's work has been featured in national exhibitions and publications, earning her prestigious residencies at SUNY Purchase, the University of Wisconsin in Madison, and the Arizona State University Art Museum. Currently an instructor and lead studio fellow at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Maine, Yuri seamlessly blends traditional woodworking techniques with her innate sense of wonder and emotion, creating captivating pieces ranging from abstract sculptures to functional furniture.