I look for wood that hides a secret, either in its shape or beautiful grain. I particularly love figured maple. Each unique pattern, like a sentence, tells a story. Carving and shaping coaxes it out. Sanding and a poly/oil finish bring it to life.

My first creative outlet began, not with wood, but with a byproduct. Paper. For decades my art was writing—mostly stage plays. Years later, with a desire to use my hands in a different way, I started sculpting whimsical miniatures out of clay. After a lifelong love of wood, I was inspired to try my hand at woodworking. And it became a passion.

Now I delight at playing with very sharp implements, loud power tools, a plethora of sandpaper….and that glorious wood.