Since I was a kid I have always been making things. I derive a lot of satisfaction from thinking up some idea and constructing it. Sometimes this is a unmitigated failure, other times it is a triumph. Still, it’s the process that I enjoy the most. Sure the accolades, the media attention and awards - they’re nice too (so I’ve been told).

I grew up in England and was surrounded by old buildings. I was fascinated by who cut the stone. Who were these people? What kind of lives did they have? I felt that I could feel the intellect of the craftsman as I touched the stone; their soul. I also feel this connection with objects. To hold an old carving or statue, to me, is a wonderful thing.

So, over the years that feeling has drawn me to make things of my own. I’ve made thousands of things, some of them good, some of them crap.

I’ve been commissioned to make wooden swords out of purple heart and ebony. Commissioned to carve a sand-castable cows foot for a roll top bath tub. I’ve carved, out of African teak, a meter- high breaching salmon; a small bear of Honduran mahogany; a frog out of tangua nut to be worn in dreadlocked hair. I suppose the list goes on and on

Moving from England to Canada in my early teens brought with it a love of the wilderness. Southern Ontario my not be real wilderness, but to a kid from Bristol it was. So I had this love of the past from England and a love of a bigger future from Canada. I think I’m very lucky to have this. I get a very real sense of freedom from being Canadian. My current commission is taking place in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates and so my recent works have been inspired by the culture and climate of the region.

At 44, I’m one of those people that don’t know what they want to do when they grow up. I’ve drifted from one job to another gaining many insights to how the world works, or doesn’t, as it may. Sculpting and carving have been constant companions to me; they seem natural and cathartic.

So, here I am, gritting my teeth and balling up my hands, stepping into the future.