Eric Lars Bakke / Photographer

Photos almost don't do justice to this detail

One of the benefits of my work is learning something new just about every day from either news sources, research or the people and the businesses they develop or direct or perhaps by the products they produce.

Most recently my schooling came from Don Harris. Harris, who lives here in Evergreen, is a career military man with a penchant for making furniture. Not your basic shop class stuff mind you, but exquisite, detailed period furniture. These chairs, tables, chests of drawers and bed frames are pieces of art.

It is the type of craftsmanship that once you have seen or touched the wood you know immediately a man’s soul has penetrated the deep rich grain and left an indelible mark of love and care.

Don has plans to launch a second career as a high-end furniture maker and wood craftsman. He contacted me to photograph his current collection so he not only has a record of his pieces but to have the building blocks for a website and future marketing material.

The fluted back to this Harris chair resonates with attentiveness.

After speaking with this quiet methodical man with a seasoned Georgian accent, it became very apparent his military background wedged with discipline, determination and resiliency would meet the task at hand.

He has chiseled good looks and a physique that would take you out in one blow. However, there is a gentleness to him that shows his caring for not only for the raw woods and tools neatly positioned in his well designed wood shop but also for his wife and two children.

In the twelve hours I spent with him my knowledge of wood and the evolution of its natural state into artistry quadrupled. Though I was familiar with some wood working terms seeing Don’s definition of dove tail, breadbox and dental gave me a whole new perspective.

Hands crave to touch these fine smooth lines detailed to perfection.

#