I am reminded of the world of wood which I live in and it's the magical influence it has had on me since a young boy, so much so that it became my profession. I became a cabinet maker and then a builder of homes and hotels.
For the past 45 years, my life has been all about wood!
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Now I spend most of my time creating character in wood.
Avocado wood is my favorite for large carvings which brings out the true beauty of its grain. Avocado wood is very plentiful here in Southern California from the many avocado orchards. It's just a matter of a Saturday morning trip to the local firewood supplier and loading up my truck with a year's supply. I discovered avocado wood on a camping trip many years ago and never used it again for the campfire. The characteristic of the wood makes it perfect for carving and not to burn.
Ray Mills / AKA Bobby3hat
Native Americans
Inspiration for my Native American carving comes from a great love for our natural history. I study each creation with a plan. Who, Where and When is my formula for each carving. Thanks to the internet for the vast information pool. The data now available affords me the basic information necessary to create a detailed Native American Indian.
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Irish Monks
Most of my monks are carved on avocado wood and a few are carved from purple leaf maple from Washington.
I started a project about four years ago and the challenge was to carve 13 monks in one year. Well, as it turns out you are looking at number 34 in my arms to the left. I will probably carve many more as time permits.
Hiking and Walking sticks
I use a variety of wood from 8 or 9 States. I use a lot of river birch and aspen from Idaho, diamond willow, from Colorado. Most of my white birch, broadleaf maple, English walnut, and American walnut comes from the great state of Washington. Much of my other stocks come from Oregon and California.
