Bozeman has always been known for its creative and entrepreneurial community. Artist and Makers turning their hobbies into thriving businesses. Among those is local Russ Fry, founder and owner, of Fry Steel and Wood Works.
Over the past 10 years this graphic designer turned furniture designer has built and designed hundreds of pieces of furniture for homeowners, restauranteurs and interior designers across the country. What makes his approach to design unique is that each piece is truly designed with the end user in mind. “It’s a collaboration of ideas. When someone comes to me with an idea, I look at what they need, I listen to what they want, and together we exchange ideas until we find the best solution. It doesn’t happen like that all the time, but that’s what we work toward. People know me as someone with a refined but not stuffy aesthetic. This is hands-on, not machined art. I think the grandkids are gonna fight over these things someday. I hope.”
Throughout his career in design, Fry has been featured in Seattle, Atlanta and the Bay area. Fry recently was commissioned to design a custom bar for newest Silicon Valley startup darling, Slack. According to Fry, “I think folks in the tech world have a desire to get away from things that are mass produced. To hold something real, hand-made, crafted by someone you know, maybe even someone who’s your neighbor, somehow just feels more meaningful, more relevant.”
Fry will be showcasing his designs at The Architects Wife, along with fellow designer Kirstin Kainz, September 22 from 5pm to 8pm. “I’m grateful for the supportive artist community we have here in Bozeman. I am regularly inspired by the folks in my community. I think The Architect’s Wife is one of the coolest spots in town and I appreciate them giving me the opportunity to show my work.”
If you are interested in learn more about Fry Steel and Wood Works September 22 Showcase at The Architect’s Wife, call (406) 577-2000 for more details.
