As a woodworker, Alan’s his creative expressions have been recognized in a juried exhibit sponsored by the Pennsylvania Rural Artist Alliance. Starting in mid-August, Alan’s work can be seen at the in the Artists Hand Gallery, Indiana, Pennsylvania ~ Ways in Wood.

“As an educator, musician, and builder of airplanes, guitars, furniture, and houses, I draw on over six decades of diverse life experiences that have shaped my artistic expressions. Woodworking is the primary focus of my artistry. Though I am fundamentally a pragmatist—emphasizing function and usability—I also demand that my creations embody beauty. Wood allows me to transform a rigid and unyielding medium into fluid, smooth lines and to infuse surfaces with intricate detail. Over the years, I have equipped my woodshop with essential tools and prefer to design using pencil and paper rather than computer-generated images or production tools.

The Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century, often known as the “craftsman” or “mission” style, has always deeply resonated with me. My home is adorned with furniture, pottery, visual art, and poetry from or reminiscent of this era. Like the artisans of the Arts and Crafts movement, I strive to engage all my senses in the creation of my art.

When people interact with my work, my hope is that they perceive simplicity, strength, and beauty.”