Born in Altadena, California in 1946, John Cederquist is a woodworker and furniture maker whose trompe l’oeil artworks masterfully invert dimension. Cederquist received both his BFA (1969) and MA (1971) from California State University, Long Beach.

• Born: 1946
• Died: 1992
• Hometown: Altadena, CA
• Education: California State University, Long Beach

After completing his studies, he maintained a studio practice for several years before accepting a position at Saddleback Community College in Mission Viejo, California, in 1979. He became fascinated with perspective and dimension while teaching a design class and decided to meld trompe l’oeil illustration with furniture making. Cederquist creates his technically functional – yet primarily visual – works by overlaying wooden forms with a variety of puzzle-like inlays, often using the natural grain of different woods to confuse perspective. References to comics, pop culture, and Japanese printmaking permeate his three-dimensional, yet visually flat, works.

John Cederquist is celebrated for his distinctive design sense and innovative style within the realm of contemporary furniture art. Known for his mastery in the technique of marquetry, Cederquist creates visually captivating pieces that challenge traditional perceptions of form and function. His works often feature trompe l’oeil effects, creating illusions of depth and movement through the meticulous arrangement of wood veneers.

John Cederquist’s Design Ethos

Cederquist’s design ethos is characterized by a harmonious fusion of craftsmanship, storytelling, and a playful exploration of perception. Each of his pieces reflects a thoughtful integration of diverse influences, from pop culture to art history, resulting in furniture that transcends conventional boundaries, inviting viewers to engage with his creations on both intellectual and aesthetic levels. Cederquist’s design sensibility has left an indelible mark on the world of studio furniture, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend technical skill with a profound artistic vision.

Current Studio Work

Cederquist retired from Saddleback as professor emeritus in 2008. He continues to maintain a studio and has mounted solo exhibitions at museums and galleries around the country. His work has been collected by many prominent museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Art Institute of Chicago. He won the 2010 Award of Distinction from the Furniture Society and received several fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts (1975, 1986). John Cederquist was elected a Fellow of the American Craft Council in 2002.