Ronald Ufkes

After a storm, Ron Ufkes throws a chain saw in his truck and cruises for downed trees or limbs that will become his next work of art. “I do love to collect my wood, but I rarely cut a living tree. It’s unnecessary because there is so much discarded wood.”

His work is dominated by smooth shapes that accentuate the characteristics of wood. Imperfections become focal points that make each turning something special. “I do enjoy the sound of the tools cutting into the wood blank and watching the ever-changing patterns in the wood as the waste is cut away. The feel of the surface of a well-designed and finished piece can be an almost sensual experience.”