the ARTIST
I am a contemporary artist and designer, based in Dolores, CO. Working primarily in wood and ceramics, I create original artworks, sculptural furniture and fine objects for the home.
In concert with my individual studio practice, I also teach design and woodworking classes, and assist others with various aspects of the product development process.
the WORK
My goal is to make compelling art and design objects that will be passed on through generations. Along with the great care to achieve the highest standard of workmanship, I also make every attempt to utilize local or sustainably harvested materials, safe and fair labor practices, and low environmental impact finishes within each item I produce.
If you are looking for something special, many of my current designs can be customized using your choice of material, color, and finish. I also graciously accept commissions for one of a kind work when my schedule permits. Please contact me regarding specific pricing and delivery information.
the MOTIVATION
The narrative power of art and design can be used as a catalyst to awaken positive change. Embedded within my work is an aim to inspire new viewpoints, unite humanity through a heightened sense of belonging, and communicate the depth and complexity of our planet in surprising ways. Providing the bedrock for my creativity are personal journeys into the structures, processes, and hidden forces within nature. The unique and often magnificent way these elements exist, move, and thrive, all play a role in the development of new work.
Utilizing the latest capabilities and production efficiencies of the digital domain allows each new idea to develop in boundless ways. Nurturing each design to fruition with the unique and unmistakable touch of the human hand, assures each finished surface maintains a constant dialog with the human body. Through this synergy of craft and technology, I am driven to produce innovative objects that maintain relevance within our culture, and emerge to provide a refreshing and insightful light on nature’s greater story.
the JOURNEY
I graduated with honors from the Rhode Island School of Design (Master of Fine Arts, Furniture Design, 2012) in Providence, RI. After completing my undergraduate work (Industrial Design, 2004) at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco, I worked for a number of bay area clients as a product design consultant. I have been fortunate in my young career to have traveled to many remote parts of the world as both a competitive athlete, and more recently as an exhibiting artist and designer.
My individual and collaborative work has been featured in publications such as: Surface Magazine, Eco-Design:the Sourcebook, 500 Tables, Design Life Now, and museums such as the San Jose Museum of Art, in California.
Career Timeline (Highlights)
2021 - Purchased a 3.25 Acre Parcel in Cortez, CO to begin building a new Art / Design workshop for Saltbrush Studios.
2018 - Relocated to Durango, CO
2015 - Opened, THE HYPERNATURAL - Workshop and Gallery in Flagstaff, AZ
2015 - Relocated to Flagstaff, AZ
2012 - Through the generous support of my family and friends, invested in new digital technologies including a massive 5' x 10' CNC-Router
2012 - Graduated w/ Honors from the Rhode Island School of Design (Master of Fine Arts - Furniture Design)
2007 - Through the generous support of my family, invested in my first woodworking machinery and began building custom furniture and cabinets out of my garage in Vallejo, CA
2005 - Employed as a 'Woodworker and Cabinetmaker' at Fetzer Architectural Woodwork, one of the world's leading woodworking and furniture factories.
2004 - Graduated w/ Distinction from the California College of the Arts (Bachelor of Fine Arts - Product Design)
2003 - Began a 5 year partnership working for renowned product designer, Thomas Meyerhoffer at his studio in the sleepy coastal town of Montara, CA
2002 - Traveled 'Down-Under' for a semester at the University of Tasmania Centre for the Arts (Undergraduate - Furniture Design)