A silent, but pivotal figure in the Philippine woodworking community, Benji Reyes’ original works of “functional sculptures” continue to inspire the sculptural style of Philippine contemporary furniture. After earning academic units in architecture at the University of Santo Tomas (1977-80) and later in fine arts at the University of the Philippines (1982-84), Benji took on woodworking as his artistic vocation for the last 28 years.
Formally trained in woodworking methods, Benji’s free-spirited approach to the craft had set him apart very early in his career. He challenged traditional approaches to material axiomatics in carpentry as he deliberately avoided the use of nails to fasten pieces of wood together. A prescient eye could easily discern Benji’s constant fascination with and absolute understanding of reclaimed wood by his mere act of choice and combinations of material; which strive to establish and maintain the work’s functionality with the harmonious integration of innovation in furniture making. The greatest appeal of Benji’s work is his predilection for the sculptural and malleable possibilities of wood, thus the emphasis of “softness in appearance” in their execution.
“Do it once, do it right,” is one of Benji’s many aesthetic virtues of well-crafted pieces that transform his oeuvre into unique art-pieces. On a more practical front, his artisanal touch has set his own standard and at once identifies an area for its production of beautiful objects very distinctively a BENJI REYES work. KOLEKTOR series, as these art-pieces are called, are vital and relevant today in the design and art scene, probably even more so celebrated than ever before.
Benji lives quietly with his wife as a designer/woodworker in Antipolo, who continues to run the family shop. For inquiries and appointments, email at benji.reyes@gmail.com.
-- Benji Reyes, Antipolo, Philippines, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Benji-Reyes/88321902103?ref=ts
33 comments so far
cabinetmaster
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10874 posts in 1727 days
#1 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome to LJ’s. We are here to help you with your woodworking endeavors. Feel free to ask for advise. But Be aware…this site can be very addictive…………LOL
-- Jerry--A man can never have enough tools or clamps
Scott Bryan
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27262 posts in 1991 days
#2 posted 1247 days ago
Hello Benji,
Let me welcome you to LJs. I am sure that you will find being a member of this group to be an interesting, as well as exciting, experience. Have fun and enjoy.
-- Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful- Joshua Marine
Karson
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34370 posts in 2569 days
#3 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome to LumberJocks. Glad to have you aboard. †
-- I've been blessed with a father who liked to tinker in wood, and a wife who lets me tinker in wood. Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †
SnowyRiver
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45700 posts in 1649 days
#4 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome aboard. Nice that you could join us on Lumberjocks.
-- Wayne - Plymouth MN
mynoblebear
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722 posts in 1276 days
#5 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome.
You will find the members of LJ’s to be helpful, informative, supportive, and inspiring.
I bring A long list of experience creating, Furniture, Custom Furniture, Chairs, Occasional Chair, Dining Chair, Upholstered Rocking Chair, Wood Seat Rocker, Wood Seat Rocking Chair, Custom Rocker, Handcrafted Rocker, Personalized Rocker, Tables, Coffee Table, End Table, Side Table, Accent Table, Dining Table, Entry Table, Bistro Table, Bar Stool, Stools, and the list goes on.
I will keep an eye out and try to help you when I can as my time is limited. I check my In box on a regular basis and I will respond as soon as time allows.
-- Best Regards With Personalized Rocking Chairs And Furniture On My Mind, http://mynoblebear.com
Rj
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1036 posts in 1800 days
#6 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome to LumberJocks Pull up a chair and stay awhile the people are great and all willing to share!!
From what I’ve seen of your work you my friend are a true Craftsman & Artist…How too blogs are Always welcome…. Hint Hint {:o)
-- Rj's Woodworks,San Jose & Weed Ca,
Max
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55745 posts in 2442 days
#7 posted 1247 days ago
Glad to see that you have made Lumberjocks a part of your Woodworking experience… Welcome
-- Max "Desperado", Salt Lake City, UT
a1Jim
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87175 posts in 1746 days
#8 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome to LJs a place with great people,wonderful projects,and outstanding woodworking. Enjoy.
-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/
Splinterman
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23060 posts in 1530 days
#9 posted 1247 days ago
WELCOME to LJ’s ….the best place to enhance your woodworking skills and knowledge.
ND2ELK
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13495 posts in 1943 days
#10 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome to Lumberjocks. The projects are an inspiration, the information is priceless and the people are supportive. The only problem is, the site can get addictive.
God Bless
tom
-- Mc Bridge Cabinets, Iowa
woodworm
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14104 posts in 1760 days
#11 posted 1247 days ago
Welcome to Lumberjocks!
-- masrol, kuala lumpur, MY.
Roz
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1567 posts in 1955 days
#12 posted 1246 days ago
Welcome, Glad you have joined us.
-- Terry Roswell, L.A. (Lower Alabama) "Life is what happens to you when you are making other plans."
GaryK
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10263 posts in 2157 days
#13 posted 1246 days ago
Welcome to Lumberjocks! Enjoy yourself.
-- Gary - Never pass up the opportunity to make a mistake look like you planned it that way - Tyler, TX
Monty Queen
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1568 posts in 1421 days
#14 posted 1246 days ago
Welcome to Lumbejocks. Keep making those awesome chairs.
-- Monty Q, Columbia, South Carolina.
kiwi1969
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609 posts in 1611 days
#15 posted 1246 days ago
Welcome to lumberjocks Benji. Don,t know how you found this place but i,m so happy you did. Hope one day to be able to meet up (although Antipolo is a long way from Las Pinas in a jeepney)
-- if the hand is not working it is not a pure hand
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