I was privileged to have grown up in Alaska when it was still a territory and was always intrigued by nature and the lessons it had to teach. When it came time for me to make a living, I found conventional jobs too restricting and un-fulfilling. I missed the excitement and creativity I experienced when I was closer to nature. My first project was a clock made from a burl on a tree in my backyard. That was all it took! 25 years later I am still working with the Alaskan woods I have always loved.

My current work is turned bowls of Alaskan and other exotic woods with intricate inlay. Precious and semi-precious metals are used as well as pre-historic materials found in Alaska. Each piece is finished with a formula I developed that seals and protects the integrity of the inlay. This finish also protects and enhances the three dimensional properties of the wood.

My desire is to create larger, more intricate pieces including furniture, using my combined skills of design, inlay, carving, metal work and finishing techniques. I invision creating works that will one day (hopefully in my lifetime) be recognized as some of the best in the world.

As well as pursing my turned works, I have re-designed my metal lathe for outboard turning. The inlay and lamination work I do is of my own creation and design. Due to the unique materials and design of my work, I have also developed my own finishes and finishing techniques.

I have had the pleasure and honor of my work appearing in a number of collections and publications; including: The White House Permanent Collection, Del Mano, Renwick Gallery, Woodturning Magazine, Fine Furniture Magazine and other notables.

To view more examples of my work, please visit: http://www.rjcutler.com