Aviv Teva
Global Studies Portfolio
Senior Seminar
Aviv Teva
Students at Watkinson participate in Senior Seminar, a year-long course that encourages them to develop expertise in topics driven by their own interests, passions, and curiosity beyond the standard curriculum. They begin by forming a central guiding question, which leads to in-depth research and exploration. Midway through the year, students step away from their regular classes for two weeks to gain practical, real-world experience related to their project. As the course progresses, they use their learning to create a final product that demonstrates both their understanding and personal growth. The program concludes with the Senior Exhibition, where students publicly present their work and highlight what they have learned throughout the year.
What woodworking and design skills are needed to make a table that is both functional and unique?
Artist Statement
My project explores the question: What woodworking and design skills are needed to make a table that is both functional and unique? By researching the history of woodworking and modern furniture design, I studied how craftsmanship and creativity intersect in different ways. My goal was not only to create a finished side table as my final product, but also to learn some foundational skills in woodworking and design through lots of hands-on experience.
My design was heavily influenced by the famous Mid Century Modern Noguchi Table, particularly in its organic forms, minimalist aesthetic, and two legged asymmetry. I adapted these elements in my own way by making a vertical trending side table as opposed to a low horizontal coffee table. My design process moved from research to sketches to cardboard prototypes and finally a finished wooden piece, and taught me a lot about patience and careful planning. During construction, I worked with a variety of tools like the chop saw, table saw , band saw, planer, spokeshave and electric sander. Alongside the technical skills came safety lessons, and ways to optimize the different tools effectiveness. I hope viewers recognize both the influence of design and the individuality of my interpretation, as well as the attention to detail in every cut, sanded edge, or layer of shellac finish.
My side table represents the full creative process from initial concepts to final completion. It demonstrates how design inspiration, technical skill and patience can be applied to create something that is both practical and expressive.
