A self-taught, second generation wood artisan, Keoni Carlson’s work explores shape, texture, color, and complex patterns. His work reimagines wood as woven and beaded basketry inspired by Native American storytelling, legend, and mythology. Keoni takes simple, functional shapes and transforms them into touchable illusions that blur the craft/fine art distinction. Keoni uses fire, ink, and sharpened steel to create his pieces, which are story-driven. As he carves and colors, the narrative emerges.
Wood art is the tree that lives on the warmth and shade and protection sustained and brought inside. Listen well and the wood will speak.
