One's Wood Shop as Sacred Space...

I had an idea the other day that I would take a few photos of my workshop and post them in this Blog.  So, I started to look around for suitable places to take snapshots - at the machines and the workstations and the walls - and I was struck by a realization.

My studio, over time, has been decorated just like any other room where I spend a lot of time and it reflects both the way I organize physical things - and also the way I symbolically represent my mind and spirit.  In other words, in addition to the functional items (like tools, etc.) there are; pictures, photos of my 'gurus', icons, statues, models, carved symbols, and so on. Looked at from a certain perspective, it is almost like creating a place of high-reverance.

And here's what brought it home for me.  I found myself remembering things of a similar nature I had seen in other wood artist studios, and with those memories came the realization that I am not alone in this.  In fact, I would suggest that walls and shelves decorated with a craftsman's 'knick knacks' is more the norm than the exception to the rule.

The point here is not that there is an inordinate amount of superstition or artificial piety in the life and thinking of an artist.  It is that we make our spaces meaningful.  I myself have seen - in various studios I have visited - the statues of gods, goddesses, saints and the like.  I have seen technical articles on a wood artist's favorite wood glue.  I have seen photos of children and pets.  I have seen incense burners and shrines.  And I have also seen a chisel embedded in the wall by a spinning tablesaw blade after the operator mistakenly thought it would work as a push stick - said chisel left in the wall as a reminder not to ever do that again.

They are all symbols.  And they all have meaning to the master of the shop.  Most people will never know they exist - but he or she will know.  And, she or he will see them and be with them every day.  They are an integral part of the process.

So, I am not going to post any photos - just these thoughts.  I would very much enjoy hearing any stories or thoughts on this subject from anyone who has them.

Until next time.....

New Interior Lighting designs

I have been carrying a series of lamp designs in my head for more than 10 years - so, it's high time to trot them out.  Here goes.

This series will be called "The D.N.H. Glow Series".  Currently planned are a Hall Table version and 3 different Floor Lamps.  I am rendering the Hall Table one right now out of Walnut and Quartersawn White Oak.  The drafted example looks like this:

 ...and a partial prototype I did to try some ideas looks like this:

The piece shown above will be, when oiled and polished, elegant and refined - and 'low key' - but I cannot wait to try the same design with more exotic hardwoods.  I know it's going to be a show stopper.

Stay tuned, I will bring in preliminary looks at the floor lamps as I develop them further.....

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The Official Website Launch!!

So, here it is!  The moment when I walk up the wooden steps to the platform, grasp the bottle of champagne that hangs suspended from a cord, swing it back and crash it against the prow of the new ship. " I christen thee www.Wood-Lore.com - and a fine, seaworthy website you shall be."

I want to begin by thanking all those who contributed one way or another to the journey leading to this point on my path.  A new beginning for sure.
Foremost among those for whom I am grateful is Lori - my partner, my wife, my best friend and the love of my life.

I hereby dedicate myself to all the contacts and connections with people that will come through this website.  May we all enjoy the process and benefit from it in both expected and unexpected ways....

                                      "It's Been Fun Industries" by Paul Reed (my son)

Now ----- to the fun.  I have, waiting in the wings, many exciting products and designs I shall be introducing soon.  Please check back often - especially in the near future.  I have found a number of ways to incorporate my experience with CAD technology which will allow the early release of new designs and be a great way to depict projects to potential Clients who want to see their ideas before they engage my services. 

Also, upcoming is the first release of my invention.  Verrrry exciting but, for the moment, verrry hush hush. 

With that, I declare this website officially OPEN.  Let the games begin.........