29 Comments
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Deborah Brasket's avatar

Such a beautiful table and the story behind it, and such a beautiful essay bringing all of that to light. I love the idea that he reached a moment of transcendence when creating his table. I believe it underlies all great works of art, something higher than ourselves moving through us, expressing itself through us. Thank you, Andrew. I always feel blessed when I read your essays.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

What a kind thing to say, Deborah. I'm not surprised you think the table is beautiful too. Nor am I surprised that you understand the importance of transcendence. Your lovely response means a great deal to me. Thanks so much for taking the time to read and weigh in.

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Diana M. Wilson's avatar

As always--this was a brilliant piece. Your work deserves to be widely distributed in the world...I love--have always loved--that Noguchi coffee table--did not know of his history or how his work got commandeered. I love that not only are your essays always a thing of beauty, but that I also learn so much by reading them.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Thanks so much, Diana! Isn’t that table fantastic? I’m really glad you discovered something you didn’t know before reading this post. I almost didn’t write it because I thought maybe Noguchi’s story was too well known. But like lots of other things in our complicated history, it bears repeating. It would be nice to have a larger audience, so I hope the angels are listening to you. Thanks again for your kindness and encouraging response.

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Susan Dragojlovich's avatar

Great writing and a beautiful tie-in with Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month. I always learn something or several something’s from your writings. Thank you!

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading and sharing your response.. It means a lot!

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Chris Gartland's avatar

Transcendence, when the end removes itself from the initial thought.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Interesting way to think about that. Thanks so much for reading and sharing your response.

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Bliss Grey's avatar

The craftmanship looks like genuine talent. Just beautiful.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.

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Pam Perkins's avatar

Fascinating story, Andrew. I too have the knockoff but didn’t know the back story. Beautifully written as always. ❤️

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Thanks so much, Pam! It’s always good to see you here. Glad I was able to add a little context to your table.

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Meyer Lemon Marmalade's avatar

Another inspiring and informative read. Thank you !

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Many thanks to you, too! Much appreciated.

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trE L. Loadholt's avatar

Oh, how I've missed your writing!

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

It’s so good to see you! Thanks so much!

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trE L. Loadholt's avatar

You're most welcome!

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Joe & Dana's avatar

Wonderful!

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Thanks so much. I thought about you guys as I wrote this. Glad you liked it.

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Jeff Darnell's avatar

Always, both informative and delightfully entangled!

👍

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Jeff Darnell's avatar

I had a shop 35 years ago beside a designer furniture store that sold the Naguchi table - it was 3500$ back then!

It is an iconic item. Love the back story.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

And that’s why I have a reproduction, Jeff! Thanks for sharing that.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Many thanks, Jeff! Much appreciated.

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Felicia Randolph's avatar

Beautifully done, Andrew. Well researched, well written and thoughtful.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Thanks so much, Felicia! So glad you enjoyed it. I really appreciate your feedback.

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Rachel Rose's avatar

Thank you for this great essay. I did not know about Noguchi's story--truly inspiring.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

And thanks to you too, Rachel. Much appreciated!

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James Coyne's avatar

Your ability to connect seemingly unconnected pieces into a coherent and powerful statement makes your work a compelling read. This piece is no exception. And, I always learn something new! Bravo.

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Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Really glad to know you enjoyed this one. And that it all hung together as I’d hoped. Thanks so much for reading and sharing your response.

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