Gary Leake
Artist’s Statement
A woodworker whose passion is to search the countryside for a special one-of-a-kind, piece of timber, be it cherry (a favorite), maple, walnut or cocobolo, that has character (meaning highly figured, tigered, spalted, etc) and turn it into a finely engineered and ultimately beautiful piece of furniture, so unique it is considered a work of art. Gary’s technique tends to be influenced by methods and styles of earlier times, using antique woodworking tools and skills (although he does use a bandsaw from time to time). Other influences: ancient Japanese joinery, “Shaker-style furniture, Colonial-style furniture, Early American hand tool techniques and a natural finish look. Moving to Whidbey Island in 2000 proved to be even more tempting for Gary to expand his horizons and express his artistic talent. In pursuit of his passion, he spends hours (and hours and hours – just ask Sandy) dreaming up ideas, finding that perfect piece of timber and finally creating a true work of art.
Creative Process
Gary credits his Grandfather for nurturing what has become a keen appreciation for all things wooden. Many of Gary’s antique woodworking tools and skills were inherited from this wonderfully patient master cabinet-maker. Gary’s creative process can best be described as follows: Conceptual ideas float around in his head (sometimes for a day but often for years) until the magic moment when he finds that particular piece of timber that triggers the project. The wood’s natural character, which acts as a catalyst for moving the abstract idea to reality, truly drives the final design. Thus each artistic creation is truly unique. Each piece is carefully crafted by hand using many of the woodworking techniques and tools employed during the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries. The resultant ‘feel’ and warmth of the wood can only be experienced by touching and caressing it. Touching of Gary’s art is indeed mandatory. Gary’s labors of love demonstrate his creativity as a contemporary artist and his woodworking skills.
Awards and Exhibitions
1st Place in 3-D Art Historic Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002; Honorable Mention 2007
Whidbey Island Woodworkers Guild exhibition, Bayview, WA 2004-2009
“Portrait of a Community” exhibition, Bayview, WA 2004
Published: 500 Tables, Lark Books 2009