Woodworking Studio in Action

The woodworking studio may look disorganized and chaotic, but isn’t. Quite the contrary. The space is so small that organization is vital. It is true, however, that when in the flurry of creation, the workbench becomes a jumble of tools, wood scraps, screws, hardware, sawdust and emerging art. Ditto for the floor. This wonderfully rich phase of intense (and fun!) creativity is followed by a ritual cleaning. Each tool returns to its proper place, the ShopVac gets pressed into service, and the space readied for the next burst of invention.

Lumber scraps aka FCA (Future Critters of American)

Happy Chappy II before and after paint job

wood, hardware, paint and spunk

16-1/4” H x 9-3/4”W x 7”D

In addition to constructing Critters, occasionally my long-standing love for architecture bubbles to the surface. When that happens, I turn my attention to creating “Temple Boxes.” Output has been limited, yet incredibly rewarding to create. The inspiration for these comes from two arenas: First, as a result of living in Japan as a child with my family and then growing up with oriental art in our home; and second, years ago seeing a remarkable Chinese film called “Raise the Red Lantern.” In addition to the compelling story line, I was totally captivated by the palace itself where the story takes place. It was a full-blown, vital character in the film. My longtime affinity for oriental art and a fascination with this particular building found expression in constructing these ritual architectural structures.

Whether constructing Critters or Temple Boxes, the process is the same: assemble bits and pieces of found wood and hardware into totally new forms with their own unique personalities.