These pieces are inspired by Chashitsu Architecture, the traditional architecture of the Japanese Tea House.  These 14th century tea houses and gardens are a visual extension of the tea ceremony.  The purpose of the tea ceremony is to refresh the participants thorugh an appreciation of nature, one another, the present moment and a simple and particular aesthetic.  To this end a natural material, such as a tree trunk with branches intact, might serve as a beam in the tea house.  Similarly, each piece in the Boat Series contains a natural stick which serves as the core of each piece.  Each stick is chosen for it's irregularity and natural beauty.  The shape of the inner opening and size of the outside form are determined by the stick. To me, the boat form is figural, female and still.