To begin with, wood is an amazing substance, so working with wood is first and foremost an engagement with wonder. Not just a singular wonder, though, because woods are extremely varied, even among the domestic species, let alone the imported ones. Trees are an essential part of the web of life, partners for us in sustaining this dear planet. In honor of this sacred resource, therefore, I carefully research the wood species for my creations to avoid using anything that is endangered in any way. This is, I hope, more than simply a “Do No Harm” philosophy. It is a recognition of the blessing that wood offers as I try to transform my wood sources into enhancements to this earth.

Given the natural wonder of wood, if I work mindfully and respect its properties, the potential for beautiful results is ever-present. At the same time, given my own very practical nature, I am drawn to creating pieces that serve a functional purpose along with their artistic qualities. Hence, my tagline: Functional Wood Art. I specialize in common household items that are beautiful enough to stand alone as a gallery piece yet durable and practical enough to be used every day.

I am retired now, but for many years, I served the University of Notre Dame as a social scientist and analyst, relying on quantitative reasoning and systematic methods to understand complex relationships in higher education. I enjoyed that work, and woodworking also presents many problem-solving opportunities. It is the creative aspect of woodworking, however, that really inspires me.

Most frequently, my creative wood art process begins by imagining what types of wood will look good together. I then imagine ways of combining them that create intriguing patterns, perhaps something I haven’t seen before: layers, weaves, variations in thickness, and so on. This stage of the process often involves a great deal of cutting and gluing, along with trial and error. As all artists know, it is often a mystery just how the piece will turn out. 

As the photos on my website demonstrate, I love to create cutting boards and charcuterie boards, turned boxes, bowls, candle holders, vases, foot rollers and the occasional wine bottle stoppers or cheese knife handles. As I said, I have a very practical side. I strive, though, to make sure that the wonder of the wood comes through. Emphasizing grain–also known as figure–is one of my favorite approaches. Contrasting colors–bubinga with satinwood, canarywood with padauk, or walnut with curly maple–is also a lot of fun. It’s a delight to work with live edge slabs, which keeps the memory of the tree itself very present. 

Because many of my pieces are for use with food, I assure you that all of my food-related items use food safe woods, glues and finishes. People sometimes tell me that a particular board is too pretty to cut on. That said, I assure you that my boards are intended to be working cutting boards. The fact that a board you purchase is beautiful just means you can leave it out so that you and others can enjoy it more often.

If you are the kind of person who marvels at trees in all their magnificence, who loves to behold the art of nature and the nature of art, I invite you to tour my website. See for yourself whether you’d like to bring one of my creations into your own home or to gift a special person with something you see.

Please note: This website is designed for viewing my creations. It is not yet set up for e-commerce. If you are interested in anything you see here, please feel free to email me (mcguntywoodart@gmail.com) to make arrangements for purchase.