Welcome to the Green Bay home wood shop of Dan Wieske.

Dan grew up in a household of profession chefs. His early years were influenced by the creative clatter in the kitchen. Lots and lots of spoons, spatulas, pots and pans. Beginning as an apprentice carpenter in Montana after service he acquired skill and experience for creative wood working.

WOODWALK 

Describe your work in three words

DAN

Functional. Tactile. Organic.

WOODWALK 

What do you love about your chosen medium?

DAN

No two pieces of wood are ever the same. Different texture, different color. One can paint with wood.

WOODWALK

Tell us about the body of work you have at Woodwalk this year.

DAN

Functional wood wares. And I am experimenting with veneer to make mosaic designs on serving trays. 

WOODWALK 

What are some consistent aspects of your creative process?

DAN

I need a rough sketch, then I make a rough prototype. Then I refine the shape until it looks and feels right. I am always trying to achieve form following function. 

WOODWALK 

What does your ideal day in the studio look like?

DAN

I start around 8:30 am and work until 3:00-3:30 pm. I have music on when I'm using hand tools. I try and get into my shop everyday even if its only to put a few things away or clean up. 

WOODWALK

If you could go anywhere in the world for a creative residency, where would you go?

DAN

College of the Redwoods, North Bennett School of Woodworking, or Marc Adams School of Woodworking. 

WOODWALK

What inspires or influences you?

DAN

Natural shapes, clean lines, color, my contemporaries work, art shows, and trade publications. 

WOODWALK

How has your work evolved over the years?

DAN

I started as a rough framer, moved to case work cabinets and played with furniture. Now my work is smaller with the hope that it is used everyday. 

WOODWALK

Is there was another medium you'd enjoy exploring?

DAN

Metalwork and blacksmithing.