As a young boy I observed my grandfather making a vessel from leftover scraps of copper sheets. I was fascinated that a man who was legally blind could create something as fine as this with minimal vision and mostly the feel from his hands. What I found most interesting was his ability to see this object in his mind. I didn't realize then how much impact this would have on me as I grew up and developed my woodturning skills. I've found that the skills developed in my craft and the lessons learned from my grandfather are the foundation from which my artwork has emerged. Seeing the object in my mind when it is a wonderful lump of raw wood is the key to my final presentation. There are times, however, that I will alter the piece after cutting into the wood and discovering the treasure inside is different then I had ever imagined. My intent as an artist is to merge my vision using all my skills, exposing the natural beauty of the wood.
- Ed Koenig (deceased)