​Expressions in Wood

Jamie Green

I create visual expressions in wood. My pieces explore the balance between the form I’m trying to execute and what the wood itself wants to do; the end result is a natural material in a form that may appear to be organic, but will never truly appear in nature.  I’m inspired by geometry, theoretical forms such as the Mobius strip, but most importantly, the medium itself. It’s all about balance—the ebb and flow between the natural and the unnatural, the effects of nature and the effects of the carving process.
 
I love using wood because it’s a living thing. It had a life before it got to me. Even after I work with it, it’s not complete, not truly stable—it dries, it shrinks, it absorbs and releases moisture. Again, it’s about the tension and harmony between what the wood wants to do, and what I want it to do.
 
The process in sculpture is like a chase. I’m constantly trying to achieve something that’s truly non-existent until I create it. The expression I create is already contained within the wood itself, and the material exerts just as much influence on the finished piece as I do. For me, truest satisfaction comes at the points of discovery—when I find something in the piece that I didn’t expect.  That discovery process continues even after the work is finished; I am always learning from the process and it continues to shape my future work.

About the Artist:  Jamie Green was born and raised in Lexington, Kentucky. He has always had an increasing interest in the arts. His initial interest was focused on music in his youth. He developed his talent as a finger-style guitarist during his twenties and played in many venues around Lexington throughout the years.

In 2013 Jamie’s interest turned to woodworking. He found himself entranced by the process of traditional wood carving techniques, with a primary interest in functional works, i.e. spoons, bowls, and furniture. In 2014 & 2015, Jamie had the opportunity to work with master sculptor, Leslie Scruggs, in Onekama, Michigan. This is where he found his love for abstract sculpture. Since then, Jamie has been developing his collection of pieces that are a true reflection of his passion for this medium. He continues to push and evolve himself forward learning from every piece that he creates.