Hank Waddell

Background

Education
2004 – 2005 Austin Community College, studies in metal work
1976 –1980 Glassell School, MFAH, Houston, Texas
1970 – 1973 Various Universities in Texas, studies in mathematics, science, engineering

Previous Business
2001 - current Hank Waddell - Sculptor and Furniture as Sculpture
1982 – current LeGrande Company, Inc, specializing in fine wood interiors and unique projects
1974 – 1982 HW Contractors, general construction of residential remodeling
1975 – 1982 Assistant to sculptor Tom Wheeler in Houston, Texas
1972 - 1974 Yost & Company, led furniture builder and R&D for construction development
1968 - 1972 Construction and subcontracting work after hours to help my employers keep jobs on schedule

About my work
I began developing new techniques of building furniture when I was commissioned to build a 104 foot long mesquite conference table. These new techniques led me to develop a style of my own with unique joinery that enhances the beauty of the wood. My designs have progressed to inclusion of up-cycled salvaged aluminum and other metals. Many of these wood/aluminum pieces are reminiscent of midcentury modern designs which are currently popular.

All wood is carefully hand selected and matched. I prefer a clear finish but can add stain or color if desired. Most finishes are 9 coats of had rubbed polymerized tung oil that is hand waxed. I find this finish to be the most natural and is very water resistant. Other finishes are available if requested, automotive, polyesters, conversion varnish, waterborne.

About Me
Hank Waddell, b:Houston, Texas 1951
As a youth most of my extra minutes were spent in the woods of what was then the outskirts of Houston, 8 miles from downtown. I grew up playing in a grove of pines that all seeded at the same time. Large oaks were intermingled with the pines. Exploring those woods, I named my favorite trees. The tops of the biggest oaks were reserved for the arrangement of plywood picnic tables with blocks of 2 x 12’s attached to the limbs for chairs. At 10 or 12 years of age, I could travel around the 5 acre area by climbing into a pine tree. When the limber top leaned close to an adjacent tree, I grabbed it and climbed up once again, repeating the process over and over, moving from tree to tree. This made for a great race across the woods until the trees matured and became less pliable, no longer accommodating my game. As storms approached from the Gulf, I sat in the tops of pines, holding on for wild rides as the wind gusted. Today in my work I continue to hold conversations with wood to ensure each board is formed into a worthy tribute to the living tree it once was.