Artist's statement:
I work primarily with wood, drawn to its organic beauty and the individuality of each piece. I see wood as a collaborator—a natural material shaped by time, weather, and growth—and I strive to embrace its unique character rather than conceal it. My process often begins without a fixed plan, allowing the material to guide me. By integrating bark, inclusions, and natural voids, I aim to celebrate the imperfections that tell the story of the tree’s life.
My work is explorative, spanning a range of materials, techniques, and styles. I’m intrigued by the unpredictable nature of wood and the surprises that emerge through experimentation. Each piece is a dialogue between intention and chance, craftsmanship and nature.
Ultimately, I hope my work inspires curiosity, invites reflection, and encourages viewers to see the beauty—and unpredictability—within the natural world.
Bio:
Darryl Jones has been a dedicated woodworker for more than 30 years, including over a decade as an avid woodturner. Originally from Central Florida, he has made South Carolina his home in recent years.
Darryl’s journey into woodturning began while working for a school district, where he met a fellow craftsman who created Native American flutes. That friendship sparked a new passion when his colleague gifted him an old Craftsman lathe and a few well-worn tools — a gesture that set the course for his ongoing exploration of the craft.
While Darryl continues to enjoy box making and furniture design, woodturning has become his primary artistic focus. He is especially drawn to creating hollow forms and sculptural art pieces, embracing a flexible and intuitive approach that allows the wood itself to guide each project. Rather than imposing rigid plans, he responds to the natural variations, textures, and character of the material — a collaboration between maker and nature.
Over the years, Darryl has shared his expertise as both a demonstrator and instructor, teaching classes at venues such as Woodcraft and Rockler. His experience also extends internationally, having served as a demonstrator and brand ambassador for companies including NOVA Teknatool, Robert Sorby, and Easy Wood Tools, among others.
Driven by a love for the craft and a deep respect for the material, Darryl’s ongoing goal is to continue growing as an artist while inspiring and enriching the woodworking experience for others.
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