Former forestry service worker Roy Woo finds a new connection to wood in his developing change to artist. The 16 year resident of Forest Grove fills his spare time with hand carving intricate forest scenes in beautiful found pieces of wood.
" I enjoy the challenge of cutting scenes that are complex with fine details. As a Forester, it's natural to reflect nature in the combination of wood and scene in each piece of art." says Roy in his artist statement. "I use wood mostly from trees found in the Pacific Northwest such as figured maples, walnuts, and juniper.
"A fun part of creating these pieces is the quest for beautifully figured wood and burls and getting to know local specialty wood suppliers. It's finding that unique wood and blending it with an extraordinary scene that makes it an artistic expression."
Roy's work ranges from delicate wildlife portraits ready to hang in a window or on a tree; Quiet scenes on a carefully selected slab of wood; Even complex, layered scenes depicting whole forests on different wood types painstakingly arranged together.
Some of Roy's carvings allow the natural edge of the wood to showcase itself, while others are wrapped in matching wood frames for a polished look.
Recently, AFT followed Roy's process as he completed a commission set of 4 panels for a home installation.
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2. the artist at work, carving & cutting 
