Bradford Mercantile

Independence Workshop

John L. Forrest - Bristol, RI

John L. Forrest is a 3rd generation wood worker originally from Scotland. He crafts each of his pieces using time tested techniques in his Bristol workshop. Over the past 26 years his pieces have found their way into the homes of Stephen Spielburg and other notable clients - a testament to their quality and design.

"Independence by John Forrest" is an exclusive collection at Bradford Mercantile and is inspired by the artistry of American craftsmen. Primitive or elaborate each piece is rooted in a distinctly American style.

A passionate instrumentalist, John's musicianship mirrors his furniture making. As a violinist he has played in orchestras in Great Britain and in local pubs he can often be found playing lively folk tunes on his fiddle and cello.

Accolades:

  • Bar stools featured in Architectural Digest May 1995
  • 15-foot Windsor Bench featured in an Conde Nast interiors publication
  • Built a windsor chair which has since been donated to the Smithsonian; reproduced from a chair valued over $75K in a renowned Windsor Collection
  • Crafted the "yard arm" by hand (no electricity) for the largest flag pole in New England. The 187.5 foot flag pole at the Herreshoff Marine museum is built from an 1800's ship mast. John's yard arm measures 40 feet long and is 10 inches in diameter.
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