Meet Curtis Singmaster of Benchmark

Today we’d like to introduce you to Curtis Singmaster.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Curtis. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have been working as an artist and educator for over twenty years. The introduction of functional objects into my process has evolved over the last ten years. My passion for sculpture was cultivated as a BFA student at the University of Denver. I was lucky enough to work as the student sculpture assistant under artist Lawrance Argent. During this time I also lived in Mexico for a year working as a jeweler.

After graduating, I spent the next eight or nine years in Denver, Connecticut, and Boston making art and working in education. In 2010 I went to graduate school at RISD for my MFA in sculpture and worked there as an adjunct professor. My sculpture at that time had a much heavier emphasis on concept. In 2011 I moved to southern CA to help establish and build an art-specific high school outside of LA.

During my time in CA, I started applying my sculpture background to the creation of functional objects such as benches and tables. In 2013 I started Benchmark, a one of a kind furniture company specializing in custom work. I moved to Colorado Springs in 2017 to chair the fine arts department at the Fountain Valley School. I continue to make work under the banner of Benchmark, and I have recently started to incorporate custom metalwork into the frame. I also continue to make sculptures.

Has it been a smooth road?
It is a constant struggle to find a sustainable work-life balance. Choosing to become an educator has provided a lot of stability, but it also takes up a lot of time. Teaching art, and seeing kids get excited about art is inspiring and helps motivate me to find the time to create.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Benchmark story. Tell us more about the business.
Benchmark is just one of the creative hats that I wear. While the art world provides commissions and gallery opportunities, Benchmark is the most business-oriented venture I am part of. Benchmark creates one of a kind pieces of work that are available for purchase. This includes furniture and metalwork. I also work with clients to create custom work.

Working with someone to tell a story is what excites me the most about making a functional piece of art. It adds a whole new conversation beyond the aesthetics of the piece. Customers get an original high-quality handcrafted piece of art made in Colorado Springs, CO. I like to think of a Benchmark piece as an ideal conversation starter. The furniture is a perfect focal point for any room or outdoor space, and the metals work is handcrafted and one of a kind. The originality and personal connection is what really sets the work apart from others. 

Contact Info:

• Website: curtissingmaster.com
• Email: singmastercurtis@gmail.com / curtis@benchmarkbench.com
• Instagram: benchmarkmade

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