Artist's Statement
"My fascination with wood began, I am certain, when I was in Junior High School. I couldn't wait for the next shop class to come around. There is no greater pleasure than taking a shaving from a piece of pine with a freshly sharpened hand plane. I continued to advance in both skill and educational training, finishing up at the college level and becoming a master woodworker. As an Artisan I would describe myself as a utilitarian woodworker, I love to make things that are useful and functional.

"My life and business for the last 8 years has been handcrafting Shaker oval boxes and carriers. They are elegant and practical, functional and decorative, they are traditional and contemporary. I am very fortunate to be able to work with some of the finest woods available, such as cherry, walnut, and bird's eye maple.

"I have seen literally thousands of pieces of beautiful wood and I still am fascinated by the fact that it was created naturally."

Brent Rourke's workshop in Hampton, New Brunswick looks out over the vast woodlands that blanket the Kennebecasis River vvalley. The vibrant colors of this Northeastern Canadian landscape porvide a sourse of inspiration for this master box maker. He hand selects the wood that will be used in his pieces - only the finest walnut, cherry and birds-eye maple will do.

Twenty years of shaping wood have rewarded him with exceptional patience and artistry. The intricacies unique to these pieces have gained him the appreciation of many fine art collectors. Vessels for holding cherished letters or keepsakes, Brent Rourke's Shaker boxes are often prized for their simple elegance.

Hampton, NB

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