Inspiration

Artists/Makers

Unearthed sculptures are a collaboration between the artist and salvaged wood, leaning into the raw, natural details as a source of inspiration. Embracing the ‘imperfect’ to create forms that are more captivating, tactile, and real. Each piece is handcrafted using free-flow carving techniques, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Come ride the waves with me and see where this journey leads - possibilities are endless, direction limitless, and evolution unknown.

Barry Fitzpatrick

Barry's lifelong fascination with tools and machines began during his time as an instrument maker and later as a tradesman in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Although he spent most of his career in the private sector, it was a company-wide competition that truly sparked his passion for woodworking.

LIZ BOWTELL

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ERIC NANSON

Eric is a versatile artist with over 45 years of experience working in a wide range of media, including woodworking, metal art, ceramics, painting, jewelry, photography, and more. A graduate of Chico State University, he has exhibited his work in galleries and design venues across the U.S. Known for immersing himself in different disciplines, Eric selects the most fitting medium to bring each creative vision to life.

ALAN MARTIN

Alan Martin has been a Wisconsin resident for over 40 years, deeply immersed in the changing seasons and their impact on local wood species. He finds inspiration in the natural life cycle of trees, observing how they age and transform. When he encounters storm-damaged wood or fallen trees, he views these materials as both a challenge and a source of artistic inspiration. Alan's work seeks to revitalize these elements of nature, transforming them into compelling pieces of art that reflect the resilience and beauty of the natural world.

MYKOLA KULISHOV

Mykola Kulishov, born in Ukraine and a PhD graduate in Photonics from the Institute of Cybernetics of Ukrainian Academy of Sciences, began woodworking influenced by traditional Ukrainian techniques. After moving to Montreal, he integrated power tools into his craft, creating intricately carved bowls from single pieces of green wood. Inspired by photonics and nature, Mykola explores paradoxical themes like contemporary versus traditional and lightness versus mass in his gravity-defying sculptures, showcasing his focused creativity and deep appreciation for organic beauty.

SEAN PHILIPS

Sean's approach to carving mirrors his philosophy on life itself: guided by intuition and feel, he forgoes straight lines and perfect circles in favor of embracing the unpredictable nature of salvaged green wood. Each piece, be it a bowl, vase, or fine art, becomes a unique expression of this ethos, as Sean allows the wood to dictate its final form. With a meditative approach akin to conversation, he transforms discarded trees into practical and beautiful works of art, ensuring they live on with their own distinct character and personality. READ MORE

PENE TURNER

Pene Turner is the true definition of a maker. Not wanting to be contained or limited in style or medium, Turner has developed a multiple layered and diverse skill set using an extensive variety of techniques and products. Soft fluid organic lines are the foundation of her wooden forms, with the stark contrast of land and coastlines providing a limitless source of inspiration for fibre art. The spaces in between allow for continued exploration. Working almost entirely with natural products provides the link connecting all of her creations.

BRENDAN RAWLINGS

Brendan Rawlings is a driftwood artist based in Woodbury, Devon, who began his artistic journey in January 2019 after creating a driftwood shark for a relative. The idea for his now business Zen Wood Design, came about a few years ago while residing and working in Dubai. Managing a thriving fitness company in the bustling city, he sensed a missing piece within himself. Upon returning to Devon with his family in the summer of 2017, Brendan realized that the absent element was nature, a fundamental connection that he believes is not only a right for every individual but a necessity for maintaining both mental and physical health. Recognizing nature's ability to nourish the soul and promote healing, Brendan finds working in and with nature to be an enlightening experience. He expresses deep gratitude for the decision to return to the green and pleasant land.

Artist Spotlights