I have always enjoyed the creative challenge of working with wood, trying to bring out the best artistic features of each piece and make it functional as well. Of course, not every idea I come up with is successful, but the challenge is always worth the extra effort. Each piece of wood dictates its own unique design and finish. Falling back on pre-retirement experience, the finish of each piece has become my real priority. Tooling or sanding marks are accentuated with nearly every type of gloss finish so attention is given to this particular aspect of the entire process. After experimenting with many combinations and processes, I’ve developed a technique that I believe enhances the wood and makes it pleasing to the eye, durable, food safe and functional. Nearly all of the pieces I create are designed to be “functional” artwork. I want them to be used and enjoyed.

Growing up in the ‘50’s in northeastern Ohio, my favorite high school class turned out to be wood shop. The shop teacher taught the basics of turning wood and stressed safety by “displaying” his missing finger! My dad built furniture as a hobby and tried his hand at bowls and lamps as well. Now and then he’d let me use his home-built lathe to try turning myself - so the seed was planted early. I took a break to marry, make a living, raise two daughters, show quarter horses, restore old cars and play with grandchildren before retiring in 2002. Shortly after retirement, I renewed my passion for turning wood. I set up a shop in my basement and now spend 5 to 7 hours a day trying new techniques and designs. I began selling at art shows after jurying into the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen. Meeting and talking with new people (and now, thankfully, returning customers) has been an unexpected bonus.

I’ve received awards at art shows in Kentucky and Indiana, including two First Place awards while participating in the Capitol Expo in Frankfort, KY in 2006, 2007 and 2008. I am an exhibiting member and Treasurer of the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen as well as the Louisville Artisans Guild and The Arts Association of Oldham County, KY. My work is currently on display at the Chestnut Tree Gallery in Richmond, KY and I am a member of Louisville Area Woodturners and American Association of Woodturners.

I appreciate your interest in my work.