Collection: Sea Girt Holly

This edition of sculptural wood cups represents the family that grew up around 219 Chicago Blvd in Sea Girt, NJ. The home of Maureen and Everett Smith, my grandparents. In August of 2021 the family home was sold to make way for a new house, and new owners. The property held several old holly trees, and I acquired a couple logs when they came down.

Turned and carved from fresh wood, and then carefully dried. Bleached to accentuate the unusual bone-white color of holly, and to remove some discoloration. The result is a look like unglazed ceramic. A very interesting wood! A light coating of satin lacquer offers some protection and keeps the look natural.

When wood dries, it moves. So these each have their own character and shape. They go out of round and sometimes tilt a little. I left the tool marks (no sanding). Perfectly imperfect, like all of us.

Also included are 4 "Improv" pieces which I used to test out finishing techniques to choose what to do with the rest. These are also available for sale, and are each unique.