I am drawn to the exquisite beauty of the burl and the artistic creation of nature. Since 2003, I’ve been working with the intricate, twisted grain patterns of burls and inlaying them with amethyst and/or agates and no two pieces are ever the same. Burls are rare, difficult to work with, and are strikingly beautiful, which is why I have chosen to work with this wood.

I learned my craft in the Illinois River Valley of Southern Oregon, which is nestled in the dense forests between the Oregon Caves, redwoods and the Pacific Ocean. For 15 years I owned and operated Ravenswood Gallery in downtown Cave Junction, where I displayed and sold my art along with hand crafted gemstone inlay pendants, glass sculptures, handmade moccasins, photographs, water color and acrylic paintings made by other local artisans. The gallery also showcased collector quality gems and minerals from around the world.

My home is on Lone Mountain, where I live along the West Fork of the Illinois River, amongst bears and wild cats and the many other creatures and plants that inspire my designs. I hand select the burls that I work with from private property in Oregon and Northern California to create my art and furniture. The agates, amethyst, druzy quartz and other crystals I purchase from an international network of friends who sell at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. My work includes burl/agate mirrors, wall and pendulum clocks, chairs, benches, tables, bars, barstools, and other custom designs.

I welcome you to look at my artwork.

Smokey