Process

The first step in creating the large wooden vessels begins with lumber bought at a retail outlet in California. The boards are selectively harvested and chosen carefully. I look for uniformity and good color quality. These beautiful woods are from all over the world and have such exotic names as Wenge, Padouk, Bubinga, and Purple Heart.

I begin the process by designing a shape with smooth curves, clean lines always reflecting on thoughts of Greek, Roman, and Native American relics. The placement of features and colorful shapes are playful yet concise.

The next step is to cut many pieces of wood from exotic lumber that have many angles known as miters. Precision is most important, as many angles and lengths are used to achieve a single ring of wood that makes an array of layers.

When the pieces are joined and glued into rings, they form the basis for complicated shapes and designs. The finished rings are alternately glued together and turned on a massive wood lathe. The carving of the final shape occurs as the vase spins while being cut with sharp wood-turning chisels.

Finally after sanding and polishing the piece is finished. The natural colors of the wood are displayed and certain finishes are used to enhance the complexity of the grain. I use no dyes, paints, or stains.

Each piece is one-of-a-kind and are sold through art galleries and art festivals throughout the United States.