Ian Stark, was the winner of the guild’s “Excellence in Wood Award” at the Saskatchewan Craft Council Dimension 2025 show.
Title: Quantum
Materials/Media: Veneered wood
Techniques: Veneer, inlay, joinery, french polish
Artist Statement:
Box carcass is Baltic Birch plywood. All surfaces have been veneered.
Exterior: book matched Quilted Maple. The edges are created from solid Ebony strips. The abstract design on the lid is original, and is comprised of silvered Maple and black dyed veneer. This design could be the beginning or the end, with the detached elements drifting away from the centre, or being pulled in. This element is comprised of approx. 232 pieces.
Inside: fitted tray with Birdseye Maple veneers and velvet. The shelf pulls are solid Ebony. The underside of the tray is Applewood and black dyed veneer. The remainder of the interior is lined with velvet and water silk. The box interior and fitted tray were designed to hold gaming pieces.
Inside of lid: original interlaced monogram created for the recipient, embedded in Madrone Burl. The initials are created from: Birdseye Maple, Walnut, and Lacewood.
All wood surfaces were finished by French Polishing. I mixed my own lacquer using super blonde shellac flakes and thinner. This is the first time I’ve attempted to mix my own lacquer – it was a satisfying process and a formative experience.
h x w x d 4 x 12 x 7.5 Inches
Here is Ian with Mel Genge at the awards presentation.
Mel Genge on the left and Ian Stark on the right.