Emergence - abstract wood sculpture

Engraved Red Cedar Wall Hanging

This hand-carved wall hanging makes a bold and elegant statement — a natural piece of art that brings warmth and movement to any space.

✨ Details
• Material: Eastern Red Cedar
• Finish: Lemon oil & polyurethane (for lasting protection — no need to re-oil)
• Dimensions: 27.5” tall × 5.5” wide × 4” deep
• Lightweight and easy to hang

I gathered this aged cedar and bark from the woodlands near my former home on Cape Cod. When I begin shaping a piece, I never know exactly what will emerge. Using my rotary tools, I let the wood guide me — rotted areas fall away, hidden forms begin to appear, and slowly the piece reveals what it wants to become.

This process speaks to the idea of emergence — how something new and beautiful can arise from the natural decay and transformation of time. Each curve and surface is shaped by both nature and hand, an unfolding conversation between the two.

Once the form takes shape, I sand it smooth, apply lemon oil to bring out the vivid reds and violets of the cedar, and finish it with polyurethane to preserve and protect the wood’s natural beauty.

Eastern Red Cedar is known for its striking contrast of red heartwood and pale yellow sapwood, often streaked with natural patterns. Revered by Native American cultures as the Tree of Life, it has long been used in spiritual and ceremonial traditions.

Each piece I create is an act of discovery — an emergence of hidden form, color, and spirit. I hope you love this one as much as I loved uncovering it.