As a third-generation furniture maker, I have designed and produced most everything — from jewelry boxes, Windsor chairs, and reproduction furniture to cabinets and architectural components. I've also involved myself in custom finish carpentry, ornamental restoration, stair building, and built-in cabinetry.
These days, diversification is applauded, but for me it was a source of great
frustration and consternation. Desiring to make one thing and make it well, I found
myself unable to become proficient in custom work. Combining all this experience and skill, I am now content in my studio creating this artwork.
As a woodworker/artist, I work to attain a faithful scientific interpretation of the fish in regards to form and coloring (taking no liberties), trying to avoid a disproportional "folk-art" look. Carving is a delight to me, but the painting portion is by far the most challenging part — both are performed using natural daylight. Each piece is created one at a time then mounted on a hand-planed wood plaque with the species hand-scripted on a hardwood nameplate — ready for wall hanging. Finally, it is signed on the back by myself. Because each item is done by hand, no two are alike.
Peter Strong
Artist
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