Ric Peterson – Woodworker Extending his artistic interests, Ric Peterson began wood carving and woodturning in 2018. “Through woodworking I have moved into 3D objects with my craft and art after spending so many years as a photographer in the 2D world.”
Inspired by spending as much time as possible in the woods while growing up, Ric remembers how sitting on a city bench or curb and simply holding a leaf would transform his state of mind, when the woods was not an option.
“Woodturning connects me with the forest, the environment, nature, my own personal well-being and the Tao. I enjoy being able to preserve and use what was once standing timber and transform it into a functional art form.”
All Ric’s bowls and utensils are sourced from Vashon wood. “A bowl blank often yields a few bowls as I core interior wood for smaller bowls from inside larger pieces. This maximizes the use of the timber.” Offcuts are used for heating and other Islanders use shavings for gardens, paths, animal beds and paddocks. Everything is used.
Ric’s woodworking and woodturning is sold through The Wood Merchant in La Conner, WA; Etsy, ricwoodworking.com, VIVA Artists and VIGA (Vashon Farmers Market).
The COVID pandemic greatly impacted his output, growing from 20-30 bowls per month to 125-175 bowls per month. “I have learned a lot, fast, and continue to turn almost every day.” Since Vashon Farmers Market stayed shut down this year, Ric often offers a pop up at his shop on Vashon’s north end, and plans to open more weekend pop ups on through the holiday season.
