“Why I Do What I Do”

I carve coastal art, drawing my inspiration from the life and energy in and around the ocean. From sketch to carving to finishing, each is one-of-a-kind. As I work on the sketch I’m considering the wood species that the image should be captured in. I then sketch it on the wood chosen and begin carving with hand chisels and a few power tools.

As I refine its shape I get a sense of how the colors should be layered. I use up to 9 acrylic colors and 4 stain colors to create its unique personality, incorporating my ‘torch-painting’ and ‘water-fusing’ techniques. Each is then finished in a protective coating to highlight its details and colors for outdoor/indoor display.

Every carving has a story of inspiration and creation, one I like to share with everyone who expresses an interest. This personal interaction, discussing their interests and my art, creates a connection.

And each time one of my carvings is selected to go to a new ‘home’, it is the highest compliment I can receive - when my art becomes my customer’s art. 

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 Bob Bohannon  Artist/Carver