This one of a kind masterclass maple Burl old growth reclaimed wood sculpture features a vertically oriented open form abstract design. This is a John David original that showcases his unique style and artistic craftsmanship. His work is widely recognized on the Oregon coast. This piece emphasis the woods natural perforations and wild grains, and undulating flowing curves creating a silhouette that feels both solid and ethereal. The Burl has gone through his proprietary 3 month tung oil and carnuaba wax finish( plus a few natural ingredients. Tricks of the trade so to speak) to pull off this high luster polished finish that is a signature technique used by John David. The base is a collaborative piece, custom made just for this Burl sculpture by the highly skilled Oregon coast glass blower Aaron Sertich. It was requested by John that there be a bubble of air inclosed in this glass giving it the allusion that air if released could create motion and breath life into the piece it holds. It is one of the touches of talent that sets this piece in a class all its own This juxtaposition of warm textured wood against the cool ocean collered and themed translucent glass creates a visual dialogue between the elements of earth and water, and the abstract trees that mother nature creates using theses elements.

Artist Statement: This piece took 2 years to get it to what you see before you today. It started out one cold rainy October morning in the shop of my Burl wholesaler. I had just purchased 2 full pallets of his best stock and paid a rather pretty penny for that wood, so needless to say he was in a rather positive mood as he counted out his money from the sale. Then I noticed in the corner, where he had swept in his sawdust trash etc, the edge of a unique to me any way piece of older not considered high end pieces of wood. There were a few old pallets thrown on top of it. And the piece of wood I wanted was very much a discarded piece. The seller saw me rummage around, and wondered what on earth I was doing in his wood destined for the burn pile. He said he would not sell wood out of his burn pile, and I could see he was a little flustered. So I asked if he could give it to me and I could put it in my burn pile. He grudgingly agreed and gave it to me knowing full well what I was up to. Anyway looking back on that monument I think I was drawn to that wast piece of wood, which subconsciously had probably reminded me a bit about myself, and how I was valued or the lack their of in my present day world. Long story short. That wood became personal to me. I titled it Freedom. Made a special sign for it as you see. And shut everybodies negative comments out of my head, and carved this piece of wood, to what I very much hope did it justice. This piece of wood and myself are both very much a work in progress. But hopefully we both achieved a bit of freedom together as it was being created.

Artist: John David

Category: Sculpture

Year: 2024 -2026

Dimensions: 3’10” high / 9” wide / 11” long

Signed: Artist signed and dated

Inventory ID: #3118