b. 1916 d. 2009
Site Affiliation: Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation for Arts and Crafts
The son of Lebanese immigrants, Sam Maloof was born in 1916 in Chino, California, and educated in the local public schools. Self-taught in woodworking and proud of his craft, Sam built his career at a time when California’s reputation for creativity, innovation and great possibilities allowed a young man to follow a passion for woodworking to the heights of national and international acclaim.
Primary Medium: Woodworking
Primary Stylistic Term: Mid century
HAHS Affiliations: Sam was friends with Jack Lenor Larsen, and textiles by Larsen are in the collection at the Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation. Sam and his wife Alfreda were friends with Paul and Ginny Soldner, and the Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation collection includes pottery by Paul Solner. In turn, the Soldners have a table designed by Sam Maloof. Maloof met Wharton Esherick at a conference, and there is know sorrespondence between the two artists, and a documented visit by Maloof to the Esherick Museum.
Fun Fact: Sam loved In-N-Out Burger.
Recommended Publications: Sam Maloof Woodworker by Sam Maloof; Sam Maloof: 36 Views of a Master Woodworker by Fred Setterberg; Moving Sam Maloof by Ann Kovara