When I first started dedicating resources to developing my artisan craft practice, my goal was simple: to create "personal, treasured items" that were small, beautiful, ornate, and useful. I was inspired by the intricate and meaningful artifacts I’d seen in museums I went to as a kid or the revered treasures featured in adventure stories like Indiana Jones. Those pieces and their stories invited me to explore and imagine what sort of life they had. I wanted to craft pieces that felt like they belonged in such stories—objects that could be cherished, passed down, and appreciated for their craftsmanship and beauty (or that "belongs in a museum!").

I began experimenting with different types of woodwork, exploring the possibilities of creating unique items that were both functional and artistic. I tried many things but my first love was boxes—small, handcrafted vessels that could hold both objects and stories. I experimented with different styles to find my voice and came up with some unique concepts that I felt very excited to iterate on and hone. However, I soon realized that while I enjoyed designing and making boxes, there wasn't a particular cultural or artistic narrative that resonated deeply with me around them, outside of specialized items like humidors. Cigar culture has a deep appreciation for "hand craft" and traditional humidors are made from specialty woods. It fed my wood nerd interest, my hand craft interest, but as someone who doesn’t smoke cigars, I found myself searching for a new direction.

My exploration (and social media) then led me to cutting boards. The idea seemed promising at first—cutting boards allowed for a practical, everyday use that could also be visually striking. However, the more I worked with them, the more I felt that they didn’t fully capture the depth of what I wanted to create. Cutting boards, while functional, are typically solo objects, and their beauty is often diminished with use. I wanted something more—a piece that could be a centerpiece for shared experiences that also offered a canvas for learning about and designing with the vast array of woods I was increasingly becoming more aware of.

The Entrance of the Food Serving Board

That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of food serving boards. Extending from the cutting board concept and my love of food, I began to develop a design that was uniquely my own—longer boards with rounded sides that not only showcased the intricate beauty of wood grain but also offered a unique shape and style. These boards seemed to fit all the requirements I had in mind for an art practice: they were small, ornate, useful, and most importantly, they had the potential to serve a deeper purpose.

As I continued to work on these boards, I realized that my original idea of creating a "treasured item" was evolving. It wasn’t just about the artistic effort I put into crafting each piece. It was about the meaning behind them, the connection to their role within our culture, and something that has become deeply important to me as I've gotten older: Creating Space for People.

A Shift in Perspective: From Art to Connection

Through the connections I've made with people that value my work, I have come to understand that a beautifully crafted board, filled with food to share, can be an act of love and vulnerability. It is more than just a functional piece; it is a vessel for human connection. The time and effort I put into creating each board is a reflection of my feelings about the importance of spending time creating space to share with others. Through my professional endeavours I've had the fortune of meeting people that put a great deal of time, effort, and themselves into caring for and growing their communities. Whether it's an online networking group, a small town, or an association - you can find a greater sense of community where you find a greater sense of care for it and at the heart of these spaces are individuals intentionally creating space for others.

When we gather around a table to share a meal, we are not just eating; we are engaging in an act of community, openness, and generosity. We are making a conscious choice to slow down, to be present, and to connect with one another. This is the essence of what I want my art to represent. My boards are not just beautiful objects; they are invitations to share stories, laughter, and moments of vulnerability.

Where I Am Now: Creating Meaningful Moments

Today, my focus is clear. I create food serving boards that serve as catalysts for meaningful moments. My pieces are designed to encourage people to gather, to slow down, and to engage. Each board I create is made with intention, care, and a deep understanding of the importance of creating space for those we love.

As I continue on this journey, I am committed to crafting pieces that not only add beauty to a room but also serve as tools for connection. Whether it's a quiet dinner with family, a gathering of friends, or a celebration of life’s milestones, I hope my boards help create spaces where people feel welcome, seen, and cherished.

This is the heart of my work—making art that matters, that brings people together, and that creates opportunities for love, generosity, and shared experiences.