Historic Homes
A Matter of Inspiration
Visit Portsmouth's gorgeous Wentworth Gardner House.

It all started on a cold, grey day in February 2008. Eleven furniture makers toured Portsmouth's Wentworth-Gardner House, making sure to pay careful attention to each minute and intricate detail of the home's architecture and design. The craftspeople would later create unique pieces based on their examination of the Georgian manse to be exhibited in the home from June to October 15. This is Inspired Creations: Studio Furniture Inspired by the Wentworth-Gardner House, a special exhibit that brings together art, history, architecture, and design.

Ron Tuveson and David Leach, two of the participating furniture makers who are also on the house's board, came up with the idea for the exhibit as a way to draw more visitors to the home as well as to generate exposure for the many talented artisans in the area. The Wentworth family, a powerful colonial clan, demonstrated their clout through the heavy carving and rich detail seen throughout the 1760 home.

Although the furniture makers, who have studios at the Salmon Falls Mills in Rollinsford, are well known in the art world, many rarely have pieces on exhibit locally. This exhibit is a special opportunity, not only too see the handiwork of these artists, but also to possibly purchase a one-of-a-kind piece. Part of the proceeds will benefit The Wentworth-Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses Association.

The 12 pieces in the exhibit are a testament to old-fashioned craftsmanship and many are based on early 19th century designs. An example is the Phoenix mirror by Jared Tuveson, which is a modification of a Federal style gilded mirror. Ron Tuveson's adaptation of a mirror from the 19th century is also especially interesting. The top of the mirror features a reverse painting of the factory that can be seen from the window near which the mirror hangs.

But as Sandra Rux, manager of the Wentworth-Gardner, points out, there are also contemporary style pieces on display, which serve as a counterpoint to the elaborate interior. A makore wood cabinet is very simple and modern, as is Allan Breed's tripod table, which has a spider-like appearance very different from 18th century designs. "It's surprising how well the modern furniture looks in the house," says Sandra. "It's exciting."

Sandra hopes that people will learn more about architecture and furniture making during the exhibit, and gain an appreciation for time-honored craftsmanship. "You're seeing how the craftsmanship of the 18th century compares with the craftsmanship of the 21st century," she says. "It's not that different. The skills for carving and for furniture building are the same."

The house itself benefits from the exhibit, as its rooms, though lavishly detailed, aren't exactly decorated to the same degree. "Our story's more about architecture," Sandra says, "not how many things we have. It's good to see high-end furniture back in the house again."

Visit Accent's event calendar for more information about the exhibit.