Already possessing a solid art background since childhood, I started woodcarving in 1993, after I aquired a small set of carving tools.  My first attempt was a bearded "wood spirit" face, which I scrawled into a piece of found driftwood.  After many failed attempts and several piles of firewood later, I eventually improved my skills and now enjoy myself  immensely. Having been raised in the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania, I constantly find inspiration among the rural settings.  I have resided there to this day.  Woodcarving is my livelihood; I live it and breathe it. My carved pieces have found their way into many collectors homes, in the U.S. and abroad. In 2000 I was recognized as "Santa Carver of the Year", after having won Woodcraft's National Santa Carving contest. My work has appeared in Woodcarving Illustrated several times, I have authored three books to date through Fox Chapel Publishing, and am currently working on a fourth.  I find myself very fortunate and grateful to have generated such interest in my work.  Although I have carved many different subjects, I have a special fondness for the whimsical side of life.  Santas, angels, tree spirits, mythical and imaginary characters; these are my favorites. All my carvings are created by hand, one by one, using all hand tools. Each carving is an original, and stands apart from the others.  If you are interested in ordering one of my woodcarvings or if you just have some questions, please contact me.