Bobby W. Baker Makes Magic with Found Objects
I began my shop a decade or two into the 21st century. I finally came to terms with the fact that it was crucial for me to make things. If I was going to follow Joseph Campbell's advice and "follow my bliss", this was mandatory.
I had amassed a collection of curious items and noticed that the collection would be endless because I couldn't stop myself from taking walks in the woods or on city backstreets and finding little treasures wherever I went. One day I decided that these items were not junk, they were raw craft supplies. I have since been able to combine and embellish certain elements in beautiful and wondrous ways, transforming them into new, unique one of a kind treasures of their own.
I love to work with wood, especially sticks. But I'm also drawn to the stone people, especially semi-precious stones. Copper is my preferred metal, but brass and silver are also fun to work with.
However, the elements that make up the work are not near as important to me as the inspiration that brings the pieces forth. Inspiration, creativity, the Muse. There are several terms used to describe what I think is a feeling of intense giddiness as one contemplates taking an expanse of potential outcomes and collapsing them down to become one single creation. That is the real treasure.
Like the Alchemists of old, as we try to create a material object of high value, we are simultaneously creating a better spirit within ourselves. I invite you to find inspiration in what you witness here. And may that inspiration enthuse your spirit too!
