I began woodworking when my boredom with school peaked seven years ago. I chased my passion, spending as much time as possible learning about the craft. In the summer of 2019, I attended the Krenov School of Fine Furniture and learned the intricacies of handcrafted furniture design. I also began to realize that the drinking habit I had developed during high school was an addiction. Today, I am four years sober. Over the last two years, I debated how to include my sobriety into my work. I decided that the simple fact that I am alive creating furniture inherently makes my work proof of my recovery. 

I have always felt deeply connected to my medium. Trees fight to survive every day, just like me. Douglas Malloch says it best, “good timber does not grow with ease; the stronger wind, the stronger trees." Wood is the only traditional material that experiences life. The only material that "bleeds" when cut. Wood carries its story on the boards and slabs I use in my furniture. I love listening to the tree's soul and letting it have a say in how it is shaped. I am not a solo artist. The wood is my partner in both craft and struggle.

          My designs draw inspiration from George Nakashima and James Krenov. One of my goals with this show was to blend these two schools of thought together to create a body of work symbolizing my personal philosophies as an artist. Each piece in this show is dedicated to someone who has given me the strength to keep fighting for my recovery, reflected in each work’s name. The show has been laid out to create a space that is safe from the world and its temptations. All the objects included represent different parts of my recovery journey that are personally significant.