AMS Member Profile ~ Jan Walker ~ |
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Robert Frost wrote: "The woods are lovely, dark and deep." Whether I am walking through the cottonwood forest on our farm or paddling down the wooded reach of a river, these words best describe the inspiration I feel from wood. I choose this medium because it is more than just a color or a texture - wood is always moving and breathing - it is a vector for nature.
I discovered marquetry in a woodworking magazine in 1995 and bought a kit for my first project. I was hooked!
My marquetry is mainly comprised of exotic and domestic wood veneers, but
may include stone, glass,
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metal or fossils. Although I use marquetry techniques that have been in
existence for centuries, I have adopted modern tools such as the scroll saw
and scalpel to cut the veneers. My Excalibur scroll saw is fantastic for marquetry,
very accurate and
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easy to control. I have created a beginner's marquetry video, DVD and kit which is available through my web site. I have also written my first magazine article on marquetry which is soon to appear in Canadian Woodworking Magazine.
My husband and I raise
free-range chicken, beef and hay. I also work part-time for the public
health department.
We live near the river and love to canoe and kayak. My studio is at home on
the farm so I am always near a source of inspiration.
We hold an exhibition the last Saturday of September each year, which is very well attended.
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Tipi Camp |
The nature that surrounds me daily provides an endless supply of subject
matter and I am always conscious of the fact that my
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medium comes from the
land. It is my hope to overcome the past prejudices that have hindered
the acceptance of wood as a medium for fine art. Whether you are a rugged
outdoor adventurer or never leave the city streets, I seek to stir in you a
love of nature and beautiful woods.
I hope to create something in these marquetry pieces that will outlive me
and instill these same passions in future artists.
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A
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The Key |
Gabrielle's Birdhouse |
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