I was born, raised and lived most of my life in Salem, Ohio. Since retiring in 2002 carving has become my main focus.
I've been carving since 1996 but when I look at those first attempts I have no idea what made me continue. I am self taught, with the help of what has become a rather extensive carving library.
My carvings are all done using hand tools. Carving knives are my favorite. The carvings are never sanded so the tool marks are plainly visible. I then paint the carvings with acrylics with an occasional touch of artists oil colors before sealing and antiquing them.
When I start a carving I have a pretty good idea of how I want it to look, with the exception of the face. The face and the expression evolve as the carving progresses. Sometimes it changes several times before it feels right.
In a nut shell, I just love to carve! When others enjoy looking at my carvings or want to own them, that's just icing on the cake.
