(NAPSA)—Style and fun run in the “family” artist and master furniture maker Danielle Carignan has created for herself and herfans. Carignan’s furniture family consists of the pieces she makes and names to reflect the spirit and style in which it was conceived. Amongthe pieces are Arthur, a mask facade dresser with pewter handles that evokes ancient tribal masks from Africa. Jeremie is a purely modern European coat rack with his own leather cap that can be changed to suit the mood. Antoinette, a statuesque vertical bureau, features small storage compartments beneath its mir- rored head. The hidden recesses are revealed only when the head is cocked back, makingit excellent for concealing jewelry and other treasures. Another noteworthy aspect of Carignan’s collection is her material of choice: medium-density fiberboard (MDF). MDFis a form of composite wood made from recycled wood and other agricultural fiber residues. Combined with other composite wood products such as particleboard, over 12 million tons of residual wood are diverted from North America’s landfills each year. “When I began mycareer, I didn’t have a lot of money to spend on expensive wood or the tools it requires,” she recalls. “I used MDF because it was inexpensive and accessible.” Now,it’s her preferred medium. “I didn’t want people buying my An artist on a first-name basis with her furniture considers fiberboard the best medium for her message. works for the material,” she explains. “I wanted the design and function to attract them. My pieces are about the soul I put into them, not what they’re madeoutof.” Carignan even uses MDF for her select line of accessories. Customers are often surprised and amused to find ornamental coasters, key holders and vases made out of MDF. You can view Carignan’s work on her Web site, www.danielle carignan.com. To learn more about using MDF, contact the Composite Wood Council toll-free at 1-866426-6767 or see www.pbmdf.com.
