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Art medium(s): Multi-media (Wood, fine furniture, metal and upcycled).

What does “repurposed and upcycled” mean to you in terms of your art? Taking something that has been discarded as trash and finding a creative and unique way to use it to make something unique and purposeful. Making something “COOL” out of junk basically!

How do you describe your art? My art is original. I feel that my art finds its owner. It “talks” to people. The barrel stave bike chain art strikes people from the whiskey, bike and home state aspects (I have done 7 different states, and the U.S. as a whole). The dimension and curvature of the barrel staves creates a visual “POP” that many people are attracted to.

Were you always interested in following a creative path? Yes, as a kid my grandfather built his own sawmill and made cedar shims and stakes for the local hardware stores and he sold lawn furniture out of the front yard of his house. I was allowed to use the tools in his shop and any of the wood scraps to make whatever I wanted… as long as it fit in the woodstove! He was a WWII vet that inspired me to be creative, inventive and make things from items that had no value to others.

My Dad is also an inspiration as a self-employed mason. I started helping him lay fieldstone fireplaces and chimneys when I was about 6. The creativity needed to lay stone, design landscapes, patios and other architectural features was part of my upbringing.

What does your “day-in-the-life” look like? 4:15 a.m. up for a 25-mile bike ride and then to work for the day, relax at night on the patio or be creative in the workshop.

Where do you get your creative inspiration? I get a lot of ideas from Pinterest, but I get inspired by other’s work. I have made all the furniture in my house, but never followed any plans as described… I can always make it better in some way, or modify something that suits my style.

Why do you love what you do? Woodworking and art is a mental escape for me. I “check out” in my shop and lose track of time usually. Once I start a project or idea, I can’t stop until it is realized… then on to the next one.

One thing most people don’t know about being an artist, in your opinion: I don’t feel like an artist. I do this because I like doing it and others appreciate it and are more excited often than I am! It inspires me. Being unique and original in design and applying my knowledge and tools is what it is all about.

Early bird or night owl? Early bird, definitely. Getting out before the world wakes up and seeing the sunrise 15 miles into a bike ride is something that is really cool. It brings me to a great center before I start my “normal” day.

Last movie you watched or book you read: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (quite the sound track throwback!).

Is the glass half full or half empty? I would say half full…  I am pretty conservative. I have to gas up at 1/2 tank if that relates.

What makes you happiest: Warm June and July mornings with no rain and no wind.

To reach Eric, email [email protected] or call 920-843-7328.