My Work: Spirit Art
My work may confuse the first-time observer as to when and where the pieces were created. I attempt to create work that is timeless, spiritual, meaningful and calm. My inspiration lies in the materials that I work with, my deep internal connection to the natural world, and my love of ancient cultures and artwork.
I am not a designer, and my artwork does not come from plans; when I begin a piece I have at most a vague direction or idea of what the final piece may be. In all of my sculptures, jewelry pieces, and drawings the piece takes shape and form as I work with it, often changing several times during the process of carving or sketching. I believe this is part of why I still, after over 30 years, truly love my work: each finished piece is as new, exciting, and un-expected to me as it is to others.
My sculptures and drawings blend images of goddesses, birds, and spirit animals with clean, playful, and eclectic abstract lines and forms. Whenever possible I love to juxtapose the finished surfaces and carvings with the rough, natural textures of the materials themselves. I have been positively influenced by ancient Eskimo, Northwest Coast Indian, New Zealand Maori, Mayan and Egyptian arts, and though I never copy the style of any specific culture I strive to create work that conveys the same timeless joy and peace.
Background
I am primarily a self-taught artist, having no formal artistic training beyond high school. I have always enjoyed drawing and during my time in the military made custom post-cards for fellow servicemen to send to family and friends. In 1972 I began making and selling custom knives after loosing one myself. Later that year I was introduced to the world of Ivory Carving by a friend, and I have not stopped carving since.
I first came to Skagway in 1983 to run a small gallery, and returned for the next two years as a partner in a larger gallery. During the next 15 years I showed my work throughout the country, including galleries in Alaska, Hawaii, New York, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, and Illinois. In 2000 I decided to return to Skagway and once again run my own gallery where I could be more directly involved with the people who loved and purchased my art. The name “A Gathering of Spirits” came to me as I literally gathered all of my Spirit Art pieces together in one location. In 2002 I moved into my current location in Skagway’s historic 1906 barbershop.
I have been fortunate throughout my career to have the support of a wonderful family and many close friends. My wife June has provided inspiration and encouragement for over 18 years; in addition to being a professional educator she designs beautiful beaded jewelry. I have three lovely daughters and one grandson.