Tour Status:
Indoor set-up only, Vaccinated
Artist’s Statement
Approximately 15 years ago I began taking classes in book arts and Japanese woodblock printing in order to build my knowledge base and experience in crafts that I would pursue following my retirement. As a scientist I had experience in designing, performing and trouble-shooting experiments. And so I found that the design and hands-on processes (and trouble-shooting!) of book sewing and print making suited me very well.
Initially sewing simple utilitarian Coptic-stitch blank books gave me the confidence to pursue more artistic ways of creating both artist books and boxes. I have assembled a small studio in my home in Carrboro, as well as spaces for storing and cutting paper and book cloth. Embarking on a project, I usually have the intention of making a limited series of books/boxes that are structurally related to one another but also differ in design elements, especially in the use and choice of decorative papers. Recently, with my wife Peg Bachenheimer, a member of OCAG, I have created boxes that incorporate small encaustic painting elements. My goal is to produce well-made and attractive objects. During the past (2019) holiday season, I had the opportunity to sell books, both at FRANK gallery and a local holiday gift bazaar.
Over the past 10 years I’ve become quite familiar with the committee work involved in mounting the OCAG Artists Open Studio Tour, and I have assisted my wife in preparing our home to display her work at tour time.