Phil Lingelbach is a native Oregonian raised in the Estacada area. Some information about his approach to his craft: “In my work as an artist and craftsman I seek interesting and beautiful pieces of wood and then discover how best to display those attractive qualities in a useful way. I feature local woods that are usually found in my forest or given to me by friends and associates. I particularly like to contrast the unusual character of wood and grain patterns in a raw form with the highly finished and stylized sculpture that becomes it’s shape”.
In the 1970’s he began carving in wood. In 1999 Phil re-focused his attention on the art of woodcarving and became a serious student. Under the tutelage of master carver, Mel Farrington, Phil joined a circle of carvers with varied interests and continues an on-going study of the medium and various forms of carving. Much of his work is done in yew, maple, English walnut, black walnut, holly, fruitwoods, elm, basswood, alder and tulip wood. He does bas-relief carving and carving in the round but specializes in useful art.
Phil mills and dries much of his wood and friends often donate interesting woods and rare trees. Each piece of art has a story of how the wood was found or the way that the peculiar characteristic of the tree developed into this unusual presentation of nature. He believes the artist must respect sustainable forestry and chooses not to work with exotic and rainforest woods. A facile craftsman, his tree sculptures appear eerily “other worldly” yet depict an analogy for struggle with wind, fire and water, resulting in triumph.
As a student of history he often incorporates old English and European designs in his work. Many of his spoon designs are creations reminiscent of centuries ago when commoners used wooden spoons for cooking and eating. Of particular interest have been his Welsh and Celtic “love spoons”. Collectors find his original spoon designs named after the flowers of Oregon locales fascinating. Similar designs are found in his cheese, bread boards and salad servers. Unique are his ergonomic and signature pens.
Phil is a member of the Spiral Gallery Coop and his work is regularly featured at the Gallery on Broadway in Estacada. He is also a member of the Larch Mountain Country Artisans. His work has been shown at the Skylight Gallery in Clackamas and the holiday show of the Contemporary Crafts Showroom and Gallery in SW Portland. His work is also featured in a number of area shows and you may have seen his work in The Oregonian, Estacada News and at the Milwaukie Farmer’s Market.
Phil’s Deepwood Farm
33050 SE Moss Hill Road
Estacada, OR. 97023
(503) 630-3401
Phil Lingelbach: Hand-carved wood
Many pieces of Phil's work can be replicated - just ask!
To read an article about Phil, click HERE.
To see Phil's ONLINE GALLERY SALES page - click HERE.
