Creating art which incorporates old memories into new works is a way of connecting what was, to what is, and to what will be.
MessageI have lived in the mountains and worked with wood for over 30 years.
Building luxury homes in Whistler was very exciting…but as I saw more and more of the older chalets and ski cabins being torn down or renovated, it seemed wasteful to not re-use some of the old wood for other purposes.
I felt compelled to incorporate reclaimed wood into art pieces to capture the spirit and beauty of the mountain environment that I’ve loved for so long.
The Red and Yellow Cedar that I use is left over from a company that supplies wood to the canoe and kayak industry. The Douglas fir in my pieces is reclaimed from doors, door frames, cabinets, and millwork that would have otherwise gone into the landfill. Hemlock and Poplar have been repurposed from old tv and movie sets. I am always on the lookout for reclaimed wood that can be repurposed into art; for example old pallets can be a source of exotic hardwoods, and local ski manufacturers can be a source for Western Maple and Yellow Cedar.
I incorporate many distinct types of wood into my art in order to personalize it and reflect my client’s wishes. I tend to use local species but look forward to working with clients who wish to incorporate wood from their past, or present, into a new form. Creating art which incorporates old memories into new works is a way of connecting what was, to what is, and to what will be.
Snowflakes are custom-made after consultation with clients. Size, style, and materials are all considered to ensure that the final product is truly beautiful and unique. No two snowflakes are alike.
The animals in my Wildlife and Domestic Collections are an attempt to show the beauty and whimsy of the iconic critters that live in and around Whistler, and other places I've experienced.
All the individual wood pieces in my art are hand cut, trimmed, sanded, and glued together one piece at a time. They are finished with natural oil to highlight the colours and texture of the wood. Although the manufacturing process is extremely time consuming, it's very relaxing; an almost Zen-like experience. The texture of the wood and the sound of the hand tools is very pleasing to me.
I'm extremely lucky that I get to do something I love, and to share it with others. I hope you enjoy my creations as much as I do.
Rob.
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