"The intent of my work is to capture the beauty of nature and modern design, by stripping down the decorative elements and focusing on the simplicity of the object."
Using both hand and power tools I create carved wood panels and objects. My primary source for materials is salvaged offcuts from local sawmills and cabinet shops. Inspiration is drawn from two main sources; the simple and clean forms of modern design, as well as from the dynamic environment where I live on the southern shore of Lake superior in Marquette Michigan.
The wood is often worked green then allowed to warp and crack as it dries. After carving I paint or burn the surface to emphasize tool marks. The lines and textures carved in the wood are abstractions from the natural world; rocks, water, sand, waves, trees, ice… I primarily work within squares, rectangles and grids; exploring relationships between the organic carving and the machined lines.
How do your pieces come to life? Tell us one interesting thing about your creative process?
"My pieces really don't come to life until the finishing process, which often involves a blow torch to scorch the surface."
Joseph Graci
Q&A
What do you want people to do or feel when they encounter your creations?
"I want my pieces to feel effortless. But upon closer inspection I want the viewer to notice the details and complexity that actually go into the finished piece."