"My passion is turning nature's art into functional art for the home. I spend my time either looking for or working with both domestic and imported exotic hardwoods and burls in their natural form. Every piece is one-of-a-kind and has its own story. My designs focus on preserving the natural colors and integrity of each piece of wood while adding other media such as glass or steel to complement it. A lot of the wood I use would have one been used for firewood or left to decay in the forest. That is no longer the case as it is now being sold by specialty mills and becoming increasingly valuable. I strive to find that unique piece of wood, expose its inner beauty, and turn it into a piece of art that will be treasured not only today but by generations to follow. I retired to Arizona after spending 34 years as an educator. To me, retired just means doing full time what I enjoy most, and this is it. At times, it can be hot and dirty work, but in the end it is truly a labor of love." Ron was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, into a family of builders. He began using woodworking tools at an early age as he helped with the family business. He graduated with an education degree from Edinboro University and earned a master's degree from Wilkes College, both in Pennsylvania. He was a teacher for thirty-four years and owned a photography business for twelve years as well. During that time, woodworking was always his creative outlet. Now retired and living in Arizona, that hobby has become a full-time endeavor. Nowadays, he's either working in his shop or traveling to mills around the country in search of the perfect piece of wood. In addition to his own designs, Ron works with designers to create custom pieces for clients. With the help of today's technology, he has developed relationships with wood suppliers across the country who work with him to find exceptional pieces of wood. His work is shown in galleries and design centers in Arizona, Utah, and Wyoming.