What I can tell you is that I love what I do. I can tell you that I get a real kick in the head when I can get you to see the same beauty in a piece of wood that I see.
I can tell you that I really feel good when I can save a piece of wood from ending up at the landfill.
My grandfather was a Carpenter/Painter. Maybe some will remember how these two were the same. My father was a Seabee and proud of it. He was also a carpenter/craftsman.
I don't remember not working with my hands. I've trimmed some very beautiful houses and built stairs and cabinets here in the general area. Since "Hurricane Elvis", I've only made a couple of things not on the lathe. Even then I found a way to use the lathe to make some little adornment for them.

I found out pretty quick that I needed guidance if I wanted to get more from what I was doing. I found Arrowmont School for the Arts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
I met and worked with Michael Mode(michaelmode.com). I can't describe what he can do with a few strips of wood. See for yourself.
I also worked with the Ray Key. A master craftsman from England.
DIY's David Marks is another world reknown craftsman I've had a chance to work with and learn from.

In 2009, I made a dream come true for me by working with the segmented turner, Malcolm Tibbetts. All I can say is WOW.

There's also a tremendous amount of talent right here in our own MidSouth Wood Turner's Guild.
I like to think that I can learn from anyone and hope to do just that for a long time.

So, if you got this far, thanks. Enjoy the Gallery and send any comments.

Rick Cannon,
humble student.