Artist Statement

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Since I was very young I have enjoyed working with wood. Now that I am retired I can work full time on wood turning and furniture making.  Recently I’ve learned a number of new ways to shape and decorate wood and really like seeing my plans come alive. I feel good turning a piece of wood into something I can be proud of.

 

For me, the tree speaks through its grain, color and texture. Your senses will combine the shape of a piece, its weight and fine finish to reveal what the tree is saying.  By listening to the tree I can find the shape that is hidden in the wood. As a bonus, sometimes what the tree says will bring out a hidden memory for you.

 

When I began to turn wood I tried to learn the techniques, tools, finishes, shapes and all the little tricks you must master. It stopped being an intellectual exercise when my teacher made me close my eyes when turning. This connected me directly to the piece through just the tip of the tool as it pared away the wood. I also learned to be flexible and open enough to fix any mistakes so the piece would come out whole. My intellectual needs were met by carefully planning and designing the piece before I started – a practice which very few turners follow. While the result isn’t always exactly what I had envisioned, it usually is something I am proud of.

 

Working with wood gives me great satisfaction. Since retiring I learned that I really am a wood artist who can turn, saw, glue and sculpt wood to have meet any shape or function. Since I have begun selling my work, I find I enjoy making things other people will like and buy. My ultimate goal is to have people see the tree in my work.