Carl Smith turns reclaimed wood from parks and outdoor areas into unique art pieces

Artist Carl Smith finds inspiration in nature, using wood as his canvas for creating unique pieces of art. Smith’s creative process involves sourcing wood from various outdoor spaces such as parks, roadsides, and bodies of water to fashion items like table centerpieces, wall décor, and handmade wooden jewelry.

Smith’s artistic journey began with a chance encounter with a piece of wood off Highway 119 in Alabama. This initial inspiration led him to create a “Sitting Monkey” sculpture, named for its distinct shape. Over time, Smith transitioned from naming his creations to allowing customers to interpret and connect with the art in their unique ways.

Without any formal art training, Smith’s artistic intuition guides him in working with wood. He describes a deep bond with the material, with each piece of wood conveying its needs and shaping the final artwork. While his early projects consisted of larger home decor items, Smith’s focus has shifted towards crafting personal accessories like earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. His clientele often reaches out through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, with word-of-mouth referrals contributing significantly to his business growth.

Smith’s creations range in price, from affordable jewelry pieces at $100 to intricate interior or exterior designs costing upwards of $5,000 or more. Notable works like “Soaring,” a tabletop art piece priced at $3,800, showcase Smith’s ability to infuse artistic expression and storytelling into his creations. The sculpture’s distinctive shape resembles a heroic figure reaching towards victory, further highlighting Smith’s unique artistic vision.

Through his home-based business, Nature’s Art, in Fairfield, Alabama, Smith continues to blend nature’s beauty with artistic craftsmanship. His ability to transform simple pieces of wood into intricate and meaningful artworks is a testament to his creative talent and unwavering passion for woodworking. As Smith’s artistry evolves, he remains committed to letting the natural characteristics of wood speak for themselves, fostering a deep connection between the artist, the medium, and the viewer.