Kayaks, Door Knockers, Rocking Horses

Dan Thaler  ♦  Larry Virtue  ♦  Alan Carr

KAYAKS, DOOR KNOCKERS, ROCKING HORSES  |  Jill Wagner travels the country on a quest to find talented craftsmen who still make incredible items by hand. On the banks of the Hudson River in Shrub Oak, New York, Jill visits kayak maker Dan Thaler. His award winning vessels are one of a kind, floating works of art. Then, in Scottsdale, Arizona, Jill learns how Larry Virtue turns molten brass into incredibly detailed brass door knockers inspired by traditional Mexican architecture. Finally, in Fredericksburg, Texas, Alan Carr uses Texas Hill country’s native mesquite tree to carve Victorian-style rocking horses with their own Texas flavor.

PHOTOS  ♦  ARTISANS

KAYAKS  |  Dan Thaler

Kayaks | Dan Thaler

As you’re boating along the Hudson River, there are plenty of kayaks around you, but how many of them can last generation…Read more

What do you enjoy most about your craft?
There is something about taking a concept and some wood and turning it into a piece of floating, usable art that is extremely satisfying. I enjoy each step of the process. From milling the lumber…Read more

MEET DAN | PHOTOS

DOOR KNOCKERS  |  Larry Virtue

Door Knockers | Larry Virtue

Originally specializing in woodworking, Larry switched careers after cutting off one too many fingers, and figured it was time for a change. Larry starts designing a doorknocker with a pencil and paper. Then he carves a wax mold of the designRead more

 

 MEET LARRY | PHOTOS

ROCKING HORSES  |  Alan Carr

Rocking Horses | Alan Carr

Alan Carr’s family roots are planted deep in the Wild West. His grandfather designed the famous Concho Saddle in the 19th century. Alan carries onthe family businesswith a twistRead more

Why is it important for people to make things with their hands?
Few, modern hobbies use our hands and minds in concert to produce a lasting work of artRead more

 MEET ALAN | PHOTOS

DISCOVER OTHER ARTISANS

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