360-357-2850
Olympia, WA
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Don Freas
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A Maker's Life

Don Freas makes things: sculpture, furniture, poems--of wood, metal, words; from gathered things, from ideas.
Picture
Don Freas
A unique object made with a particular person in mind springs from somewhere between that story and my own—it would not exist without that unique blend of focused will. Each finished work holds many threads of story woven together—and then stands to become part of the many stories that pass by and gaze, remembering. 

My sculptures exhibit elements of the joinery art I have practiced for thirty years through building furniture. Both have leapt some barrier to mingle with storytelling and poetry. I fabricate materials seeking form; what I find is always a surprise.


The selection of pieces exhibited in my portfolios have sprung from a wide range of impulses and inspirations over more than three and a half decades.
Looking back, it’s clear I have been happiest when making things. Wood was the easiest place to start. You just need a knife and a stick—maybe just sticks and string. I set up my first wood shop in downtown Olympia, WA in early 1974, which seems like yesterday and a long time ago. When I didn’t have a  job I made what I wanted to make—tables, chairs, boxes, masks—whatever caught my imagination. It was all more difficult and rewarding than I imagined it would be. Each piece taught me something, adding skills, impressions, further ideas. 

In New Zealand in 1986 I made my first sculptures. They look like New Zealand. Since 2006 or so I’ve been working in metals as well. Look around, you’ll see.

The Arts of Don Freas

The Arts of Don Freas is a brief journey through the life and art forms practiced by this extraordinary Olympia, Washington-based furniture maker, woodworker, poet, designer, and metal sculptor.

Produced by Margo Westfall, Directed by Aaron Sonego

Testimonials

This is a beautiful presentation of Don and his work. I've never met Don, however, I get a sense of who he is and how he creates through his words and those of the ones who know him. Smooth transitions, well chosen music that supports rather than intrudes, and sound editing all make this a well produced documentary. Well done!
JAN HANSEN
This makes me all kinds of happy! Bravo Don Freas! May you continue to meet the sun every morning!
SUSAN TUZZOLINO
Absolutely the BEST art documentary on You Tube, or anywhere else for that matter. Skillfully produced, good background music. The style in which Don's art, sculpture and most especially his furniture is presented is real quality work. I give it FIVE STARS!
COLORBOLT
An artful production about Don's art-full career. Wonderful!
LAVINA WRIGHT
Excellent video of an inspiring artist and human being.
ROSIE FINN
Portfolios
Don Freas
515 Flora Vista Rd
Olympia WA 98506
(360) 357-2850
​don@donfreas.com
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