Wood - wood spoons and wood jewelry
I make hand-crafted wood spoons, pins and earrings, using both native Kentucky and other woods. I paint or wood burn original art and designs from other cultures (Southwest and Celtic). I enjoy using woods rescued from destruction or re-purposed after prior use. I have created a line of spoons that is unique, with serpent-like curvy handles. I've made wood jewelry since 1987 but making wood spoons is a recent adventure in the last few years. I have authored How to Make Wood Jewelry Southwest Style which is a how to book published by Schiffer Publishing.
I am a self-taught artist and craftsman, working in multiple media although currently listed in wood and jewelry categories. I am also a teaching artist. I do workshops and classes for both children and adults. I am a juried member on the Kentucky Arts Council Teaching Artist Roster, and am available for arts residencies in Kentucky and beyond. I love being an artist and it shows in my wood crafts, my books and my storytelling performances. I enjoy talking to students about wood art, bringing sample woods and my spoons and jewelry.
My jewelry designs are inspired by both Celtic art and by my 12 years in New Mexico. My wood crafts are smooth to the touch and much work is done in even the tiniest pieces. My wood beads take about three hours each to make, with beads handcrafted down from logs and complex Celtic interlaces wood burned and woven around the three dimensioned faces.
Since I have a Master's Degree in Art Therapy (LPCC, ATR-BC) I often like to do art classes with special populations. I believe in the therapeutic benefits of arts and crafts and I'm always looking for new art to do and teach.
My woods are poster children for rescued pieces that were once a part of a building, architectural salvage, or scraps from musical instrument makers. I help give the wood new life and I'm thrilled to have someone take home one of my wood spoons, handmade beads or pins. I've worked with over 40 different woods. Folks can see my jewelry on my website, although I don't have it updated with photos of spoons. Check on Amazon to see my book Making Wood Jewelry Southwest Style.
Artist Website www.ThomasLFreese.net