Brandon Norsted
The name ISNO comes from the phrase “there is no project” which I have used as a guiding principle when making things and in life in general. It is the idea that there is nothing you are supposed to be doing. No script to follow. No identity to hold too tightly to. I came about it when I was feeling immense pressure to be a certain kind of maker. This was a way out. A way to explore. A way to hang on to the excitement that drew me to making the thing in the first place.
In making and designing, I appreciate beautiful objects, strange ideas, and functional necessities that add to the ease of a room. Making a space unique and stylish is a joyful experience.
Fascinated by the different steps in the design process, I begin with an idea for a type of finish, a shape or type of wood and set out to make that happen. Along the way, unexpected things occur - something catches my eye, something behaves in a way that is surprising. This is where the magic begins - where intuition takes over and piece becomes expressive.
Curiosity leads me to consistently explore new techniques and materials. I’m open to learning any discipline that will complete the piece. While most pieces begin with wood, other materials and surface finishes are sometimes found (sometimes stumbled upon) to satisfy the design.
My interest in woodworking began while helping my grandfather build steps when I was a teenager and then sneaking into his woodshop to build miniature skateboard ramps. I completed an MFA from UW-Madison in 2009 and went on to study at the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture. But the majority of my training comes from a community of talented friends.