MITCHELL H. FREEDMAN, AIA
MV3.0 is my term for living in what I see as my third phase - Mitchell Version 3. For a total of about 23 years, V1 took me through the completion architecture school. V2 encompassed the main event, experienced for 35-40 years from my early twenties until 2017, when The M Group set me free. That was the start of MV3 and hopefully, it’ll continue for quite a while.
I’ve been interested in both photography and woodworking for most of my life. MV3.0, has given me the flexibility to use my time and focus my attention on expanding my skills in both of these creative outlets. That, and writing long sentences.
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I have found considerable crossover between the two mediums. For successful results, they each require close attention to composition, color, texture and detail. Also, both have nature’s work as a starting point, and with varying degrees of intervention can hopefully yield something that’s pleasing and unique.
MY WORLD OF
PHOTOGRAPHY and WOODWORKING
PHOTOGRAPHY
For a couple reasons, I take photographs of a wide variety of subject matter. First, it’s because I often shoot based on color, texture and dynamic light, irrespective of what it is that’s colorful, uniquely textured and/or nicely lit. Second, I look for complexity or simplicity within abstract compositions. These can occur across any number of subjects.​
​Of course there are recurring topics and themes, They’ll often include grand and intimate landscapes, pristine and decayed architectural detail, reflections, cars, water, rust, people and food.
​In addition to taking and editing photographs, my energy also goes into printing them. I make up to C size (17” x 22”) on watercolor, satin and metallic papers. Larger prints, whether on fine art papers, aluminum or canvas, are processed at one of the two labs I work with.
Prior to launching this website, I’d been sending a link to my PhotoShareFolios to about 170 friends, family and acquaintances. PhotoShare9 was the most recent issue. The PhotoShares often lead to print sales but the primary intent of the exercise is to stay connected with people. It works nicely.
WOODWORKING
I’ve been creating furniture and other wooden items for as long as I can remember. To help inspire various builds, I collect and store lumber. It’s usually domestic hardwood boards and slab. Most purchases are from smaller independent distributors or directly from sawmills in Maryland and Virginia.
For several years, the work has taken the form of benches and tables. Typically, each will incorporate two or more wood species, often with accents in plastic, metal, and/or resin. Many pieces emphasize the joinery.
In addition to the benches and tables, I make mirror frames, serving boards, cutting boards, and sushi boards. There’s also a series of Small Scale Compositions which have their own story. Occasionally, when the fit is right with a buyer / collector, I’ll design and produce a custom piece for commercial or residential clients.
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Fall of 2025
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