Since 2010, Doug Johnston has been focused on a process of coiling and stitching rope into a wide variety of work ranging from art objects to furniture, vessels and bags. Stemming from an interest in transforming braided cotton cord into simple baskets, the work connects a long history of spatial creation, from natural rock formations and canyons to architectural and sculptural spaces by utilizing technologies such as rope, coiled vessel construction, and industrial sewing machines mixed with the principles of Modernist design and 3D printing. Each piece is made in Brooklyn, NY by simultaneously coiling, hand-forming, and sewing braided cordage using vintage industrial sewing machines.
Since 2012, much of the studio output has been in collaboration with Doug's wife, artist and designer Tomoe Matsuoka, as well as a small team of highly skilled assistants.