When I began building I found Soetsu Yanagi’s classic book The Unknown Craftsman. I would read it, mark it, and thumb through its pictures for the next 3 years. Then I put it down and forgot it. Decades later, after I had reinvented my art a half-dozen times, it hit me that the philosophy and aesthetics of traditional Japan, first opened to me by Yanagi, had all along exerted an evolutionary pressure on my work.

Long story short, several times a year I partner with an old friend and longtime Japan tour guide Steve Adelsman to lead groups through central Japan in pursuit of art, craft, architecture, gardens, and good food. We cover a lot of territory to rave reviews. Please consider joining us!

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE: www.JapanArtAdventures.com

Interested in learning to weld, to build a kayak, or to sharpen your hand plane?

David has been teaching for decades, sharing his skills & insights with groups and individuals. He teaches at Marc Adams School of Woodworking where you can catch one of his classes in kayak building, free-form furniture, metalworking, hammer veneering, and more. He is often available for talks and demonstrations at guilds & clubs. When there is time he gives individual instruction out of his own shop.

LINK TO MARC ADAMS SCHOOL OF WOODWORKING

PDF CATALOG OF INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION WITH DAVID

PERSONAL HAND TOOL LIST

I enjoy furniture restoration and welcome the change from my usual building routines. For decades families have trusted me with their heirlooms - or to rescue a great flea market find. I have done nearly everything. I have skills in turning, carving, traditional joinery, finishes, and a solid understanding of how it all goes together - wood or metal. I take great interest in the subtleties such as color, sheens, & authenticity. I will be honest with you about what is worth fixing and give you a fair price.

I’ve been designing and building for a long time. Inevitably by now, some of my earlier clients have down-sized and made their pieces available for new owners. I also have a number of showroom samples that are available. It makes me happy when they find another good home. Vintage Orth catalog here.

Barbara Judd Orth, has been a persistent artistic influence on me from childhood. Mom & I loved to “talk shop” and enjoy each other’s art. While sadly I did not inherit her facility with illustration, I owe to her the fundamentals: some sense of color, form, and a delight in the pursuit. Recently my sister Jenny and I set out to document her watercolor work. It was so much fun - and long overdue. Please enjoy.

FREE DIGITAL BOOK
(Best enjoyed on a computer. Your phone will just be a tease. Hit that “X” to dismiss the banner ads!)

PRINTED BOOK
(Available at cost from Blurb.com)