I recently cut a Burr from a branch of an ash tree. This is a swelling or growth produced by the tree in response to an infection or parasitic growth

What a wonderful piece of wood it turned out to be. I cut it into a number of pieces . My main objective was to get a right angled piece out to use as a stand for a piece called trees.

I got much more than this, four fantastic pieces, covered in a wonderful textured and gnarled bark, and with a fine and clear grain with a dark stained centres. The pieces of wood are all set to inspire new pieces of art.

The end piece (which was originally just the opening offcut) has been debarked and looks just like a dis-embowelled stomach, rather macabre but an astonishing piece of wood. Alison looked at it and went Arrrrgh its horrible; but I am sure I can do something amazing with it.

Just watch this space to see how the fruits of my amazing harvest become ARRT work

Rob