Portfolio
wood prints
When a disc of wood is cut from the end of a log, the end of the disc displays the growth rings of the tree. The growth rings provides a graphic representation of the natural and man-made factors that have affected the growth of the tree. Each growth ring is composed of lower density early wood that is formed during the spring when the tree is rapidly growing. The denser late wood is formed in the summer as the tree’s growth slows. Careful preparation of the wood disc can remove the early wood and leave the late wood raised, allowing the artist to develop a print of the growth rings of the tree.
Wood sculptures
Wood often displays a wide variety of visual characteristics that influence how the wood is used. Some of these characteristics can reduce the strength of the wood while others are merely aesthetic (like knots) are are often called defects. It is these aesthetic characteristics that provide the visual interest to a wood sculpture or a piece of furniture. George Nakashima was famous for incorporating live edges, knots, bark pockets and other defects into his furniture. By carefully and thoughtfully incorporating these “defects” into a piece, the artist can allow the tree to have a voice.
Sketches
I travel all around the world quite a bit as I am conducting my sustainability research and it is difficult to bring my inkprint materials with me. So, to help fill in the time when I’m not working I carry just a few materials to help me sketch. Generally I just carry a sketchbook, a fine point pen, and a pencil. I usually look for things from nature on which to focus my sketching. For example a raven’s feather or a dead crow. Sketching allows me to move around a city and spend time focused on the natural environment. It also takes my mind off of my research and spend time focused only on creativity and seeing things using a different lens.
