As a lifelong admirer of Wright's work, many years ago I attended an exhibit of Prairie style furniture and lighting at the Milwaukee Art Museum. (Be sure to check out the beautiful new Calatrava addition).

In addition to many pieces by Frank Lloyd Wright, there were also pieces by several of his contemporaries. One in particular caught my eye. It was one of two lamps built for the exterior of a Minnesota bank. The original piece, seen here, stood over 6 ft. tall and was made of iron. Designed by architects Elmslie & Purcell - 1913.

Photo's not being allowed, I made a quick sketch. Some time later I made a small model out of balsa wood, standing about 12 inches high. A friend saw it and asked if I'd make a lamp for him, and so began over 10 years of ILLUMIN8 lighting and furniture.

The piece at the top, a "reinterpretation" of the 1913 design, is the only piece that is not an original design. All other pieces on this page were designed and built by me.

My work, influenced by Prairie and Oriental design, is in a style I call Prairiental. My lighting designs have appeared in museum exhibits, galleries, juried shows and publications including: The Milwaukee Journal, The Chicago Tribune, Matter magazine, Casa Vogue, The Guild and Fine Woodworking Design Book, as well as several books on the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. My pieces are also included in Wright designed buildings including Wingspread.

While I no longer produce these pieces, I accept design commissions.

Bruce Siegel

to contact me

Click pics to see a larger image
and brief description.