Our Story
Zelito Medina,
from the island of fire.
I — Roots
I was born in São Filipe, on the island of Fogo in Cabo Verde. My earliest memories are of my older brother’s shop — the smell of fresh shavings, the sound of saws, and the patience it took to turn raw timber into something a family could live with.
I spent my childhood watching him, helping where I could, learning that furniture is not just built — it is earned, board by board, joint by joint.
“To have a skill is the beginning of freedom. If you have the freedom to make things, you can be complete.” James Krenov
II — The pull
I moved away from woodworking at an early age and did other things. But when I came to the United States, the craft found me again — slowly, and then all at once.
I was reintroduced to the work: new tools, new tricks, power tools, and the same old truth — a board doesn’t lie. The more I made, the more I felt like myself again.
III — The craft
Working with my hands, I noticed I was developing skills and trust — trust in the work, and in myself. Making furniture is in my DNA; it is how I express who I am.
I want to live a life of freedom, and skill is the beginning of freedom. George Nakashima and my childhood friend Paulo George showed me that the maker’s hand is never separate from the soul of the piece.
IV — Inquiry
If something here speaks to you, I’d be glad to hear about the piece you have in mind.
Begin an enquiry