About The Artist

After graduating from The Art School, Pratt Institute, I spent a number of years in the construction business where my art training allowed me to focus on the design of structures and furniture. From cabinet making and homebuilding I moved into publishing which gave my desire to create things the opportunity to blossom. Over the course of my journalism career, I have been associated with a number of major publishing houses in both the magazine and book publishing business, including Hearst, L.A.Times-Mirror, CBS Magazines, Prentice Hall and Grosset & Dunlop.

Most in the magazine business move around quite a bit during the course of their careers; I was no different. My editorial positions ranged from Home and Shop Editor for Popular Mechanics to Workshop/Studio Director for Woman's Day, culminating with an appointment as Executive Editor for Mechanix Illustrated (now dba Today's Homeowner). I also authored several books for Prentice-Hall, Hearst Books and the Grosset and Dunlop Good Life Series.

Over the years I have also done consultant work for a number of major manufacturers, performing a variety of tasks from creating editorial packages to designing original furniture projects, shooting product photography and serving as radio and TV spokesperson. I have had the pleasure of working with such manufacturers as; 3M, Minwax, Skil-Bosch, Porter-Cable, Stanley Tools and UGL. I first turned wood in 1969, while Home and Shop Editor for Popular Mechanics magazine. Those days turning items was done on an as-needed basis for use in a project and articles for the magazine. In the early nineties I decided to back off on the writing to became a full time woodturner. And, I have never looked back. Today, the hours speed by as the shavings fly from the lathe. Though I occasionally work with exotic woods, most of my work---both artforms and utilitarian --- is created from what turners call "Rescued Wood"; i.e.; trees which were downed by storm or sickness. My good friend Pete Dooley, who owns North Fork Tree and Lawn Service, keeps me well-supplied with all types of beautiful local wood including cherry, maple, tulipwood, Osage orange , red and white oaks, etc.

My work has been influenced by master turners David Ellsworth, Alan Stirt and Phillip Moulthrop. My art training gives me a leaning toward the Bauhaus principle, "Less is More". As a result, I use a minimal amount of decorating on my pieces, doing so only when I feel its presence further enhances the wood's beauty. My art philosophy is in agreement with the late wood turner, Ed Moulthrop, who said, "I don’t design beauty, I uncover it." So, if my vision uncovers the wood's inner beauty for you I will have succeeded. Thanks for visiting my website, come back often; and, please feel free to contact me with comments or questions.---Harry Wicks