At Your Service: Sweet Success

Jessica DeRubbo

01/01/2008

It’s just a hobby that went out of control," says James Andison, who carves enormous slabs of wood into what he calls "vertical art" for his company, British Columbia–based Sweetwood Creations. "The most rewarding part is helping people’s visions come to life."

Andison, who never considered himself an artist growing up, decided to try wood carving on a whim. Much to his wife’s displeasure, he began by using the dining room table to create intricate wooden masks. But this was small-time compared to what would soon follow: such undertakings as custom front doors and 60-foot totem poles.

Although specializing in large-scale pieces, the company can work with any sculpture ideas, from small-scale masks to skyscraping poles spanning the height of houses. All projects are guaranteed authentic and unique, in any style or theme.

Sweetwood Creations encourages clients to personalize their chosen art. The customer is involved in each step of the process, from the initial personal interview to the polished final product. Family members’ faces, heritage symbols, meaningful poems or sayings can be etched into the complex handiwork. Adds Andison, "It makes for a great conversation piece around the dinner table."

Sweetwood Creations, 250.551.5068, www.sweetwood.ca