The Artisan
Measured Craft, Enduring Forms
Every piece begins with an idea and a tree or a lump of clay. The work is permitted to become itself through limitations of material and customs, but evolves through the freedoms of exploration and expression. This is a practice rooted in physical labor and uncompromising patience as musings transpire between eye and hand.
A Journey
From Mountian Man to Artisan
In 1992 I obtained a bachelors degree in Fine Art from the University of Nebraska, then spent many years in Alaska and Colorado working for the US Forest Service building log structures for our public trail system and learning the nature of trees. After returning home to study the Czech language, build a bridge and acquire the skills of furniture restoration, I traveled to Europe. There I trained in classical European techniques in the atelier of Prof. Henrych at the Academy of Fine Art in Prague, Czech Republic; also, I explored the architectual sculpture traditions of northern europe and attended the Art Biennale in Venice, Italy, the combination of which had a profound impact on my perspective and future endeavors.
Using this new knowledge, I returned to Nebraska and started a career in woodcarving and woodworking with the Bedient Pipe Organ Company, then Roger Holmes Workshops where I learned the design and traditional joinery techniques of the Arts & Crafts Movement. All this culmintated in a series of long-term projects for a local patron of the arts. My experiences in the wilds of the American West and intimate understanding of trees and wood, coupled with a knowledge of the Old World traditions has lead me to my own style of creating art, furniture and architectual features. If my style appeals to you, I would love the opportunity to share ideas and find that unique piece that only we can create together.




Initiate Your Commission Dialogue
Partnering with collectors, designers and architects to bring ideas to life. I invite you to discuss your project.
Thorn Draw Workshop
Todd K. Znamenacek
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Chisel marks & lost-wax castings