Verne Smith has been interested in working with wood since childhood. He is self-taught, and much of his knowledge comes from following his own ideas and inspiration from master woodworkers. He has built boats, renovated houses and filled them with fine furniture.

He is interested in creating one-of-a-kind pieces, mostly out of local woods, where the structure and form is visible. From choosing the wood, drying it in his kiln and bringing each piece to its perfect finish is a labour of love for the craft.

Verne built a large woodshop when he moved to Gabriola Island nine years ago and established Stones-Throw Studio and Gallery. He has also had shows at the Artworks Gallery on the island.

Most recently his work is moving into more sculptural pieces where the grain, colour and characteristics of the wood are exploited in the design and the viewer is able to understand how the piece was formed.

Verne's entry into Explorations in Wood, "Concerto in Three Movements," consists of three small arbutus tables, each displaying some aspect of music and each with parts that move slowly but visibly with changes in humidity.

Further work can be viewed at http://www.stones-throw.ca

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