After five years of running a successfully uninspired used consumer electronics business, it was time to pursue something more meaningful. I closed the business and moved to Hana, Maui where I tapped into a deep well of inspiration. I began working with the trees, turning wooden bowls on a lathe. A few years later, I found myself in Portland, OR turning wood as a full time occupation. Realizing few things in our world are both extremely useful and stunningly beautiful, I set out to find a place where these worlds collide.
Form married function and the Portland Peppermill Company was born.
I work mostly with subterranean tree roots, as they contain the most intriguing characteristics, being the anchors that ground the trees to the planet. The process for every piece takes between 1-2 years from start to finish. First the water logged roots need to be meticulously cut up dried out. When the piece is dry and stable (12-18 months), it goes into the studio, is turned on the lathe, sanded, inlayed, oiled and branded. And the process is completed.
I currently house my studio in a collective creator/maker space in Milwaukee, WI, close to where I was born and most of my family still resides. I approach the days with gratitude, courage, and a willingness to continue expanding. My time spent in the studio is a practice of love, focus and faith. The transformative process of working with the trees is a grounding channel for my inspiration.
To see my original works of art, visit www.glowackistudios.com
He who works with his hands is a laborer.
He who works with his hands and head is a craftsman.
He who works with his hands, head and heart is an artist.
-Francis of Assisi