About Joe

I live on 5 acres along Middle Creek in Boone County, Kentucky.  Back in 2006, I picked up a book called ‘Carving Found Wood’ by Vic Hood and Jack A. Williams.  When I flipped to the section on bark carving, I became intrigued with the process.  I bought a few woodcarving tools, found some bark from cottonwood trees washed up from the Ohio River, and started carving.  

I love the natural look of a bark carving, with its rustic appeal, varied textures, and rich colors.  I love the challenge that carving in bark presents.  The bark will chip and split and flake off, but the end result is worth all the effort.  

I became a member of the River Valley Wood Carvers of Northern Kentucky.  I have developed my own unique style over the years.  I carve whimsical houses, wood spirits, holiday carvings, and many others using only hand carving tools.  I also do commission custom work of many kinds.  It all starts with a good imagination . . . the ability to see something in bark.  Then you carve that vision into the bark.

For forty years, my wife Kathy and I have been passionate birdwatchers. Our love for birds began when we visited the Tetons in 1982, just a year after getting married. During that trip, we were lucky to see a magnificent Great Gray Owl while hiking. This experience sparked our interest in birds, and when we returned home, we bought a bird book and started learning more.

As we read the book and spotted more birds, our fascination grew. This interest has become a central part of our lives, bringing us closer to nature and each other. Birdwatching has shaped our history together and brought immense joy to our lives.