Jason Kehdi
Studio Furniture Artist and Founder of Argonaut Studio
In this episode of Inside The Pulse, we sit down with Jason Kehdi, the visionary force behind Argonaut Studio, to explore his creative evolution from pre-engineering student to studio furniture designer. Raised in a working-class immigrant household, Jason’s story is rooted in Detroit's rich industrial and architectural history, which continues to inspire his work. His approach to art challenges traditional definitions by blending functionality, storytelling, and raw materials found throughout the city. Whether it’s wood, metal, glass, or concrete, Jason treats each element as an opportunity to elevate the overlooked and transform the discarded into meaningful, timeless pieces.
We also dive deep into the emotional core of design—how found objects hold history, how environments affect mental health, and why design should make us feel something. Jason opens up about his cultural background, the lessons passed down by his family, and his mission to bridge art, craft, and design through Argonaut Studio. His work doesn’t just exist in galleries or private spaces, but also as public installations and custom builds across Detroit. From teaching furniture and millwork at Lawrence Technological University to helping fellow innovators at Newlab, Jason’s presence is shaping the future of Detroit’s design identity in both soulful and sustainable ways.
