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“Nias Peak” (12 in. x 10 in.) A lot of the pieces I do are commissions, which has helped push my art in new directions. In this case, I had to figure out how to combine a jungle background with offshore spray. This opened my eyes to other carved background possibilities such as rocks and cliffs. Image: Nathan Ledyard
My art career began a few years ago when started painting on canvas, but it wasn’t until I discovered carving and painting wood that I truly came into my own as an artist. Since I began working with wood, my art has evolved from flat paintings to the three-dimensional carvings that have come to exemplify my style. At the same time I was developing my carving skills, I became increasingly interested in finding ways to incorporate the wood grain into my pieces. I start by looking at the wood itself, and then I try to tap into my experiences surfing and watching waves to come up with a scene that works with the grain pattern. For me, it is easier and more enjoyable than starting with a blank canvas, and I find that helps me keep my work fresh and organic.