Why the marquetry shack? because this is where I do all my work!
Introduction
My name is Ian Smith, based in Manchester, UK, and I create bespoke marquetry pictures from photographs, art work, or your or my own designs. Every picture is unique, taking advantage of the wonderful tones and contrasts that can only be achieved through natural wood veneers.
My Work
I have been creating marquetry pictures throughout my life. I specialise in all sizes and subjects from miniatures up to twenty square feet. If you are looking for a special picture this is the place - for bigger panels or furniture there are brilliant UK companies like Ace Marquetry at http://www.acemarquetry.co.uk?temp-new-window-replacement=true
Feel free to look through my portfolio for a sample of my work. If you have any questions, please contact me. Also feel free to go to the bottom of the page and do a like for facebook! You can also follow me on instagram: http://www.instagram.com/themarquetryshack
Approach
All my work is produced using traditional hand cutting methods (the "window" technique). I do not use a laser as the work I do specialises in hand production. I have hundreds of veneers and I see the art of marquetry as using the natural grain of wood and the tones it can create. I am responsible for the whole artistic process from design, choice of veneers and cutting. I then hand over to professional layers and finishers to complete the process, allowing me more time for the creative work, and ensuring a world class finish - first from Sean at http://www.veneeringsolutionsltd.co.uk then over to Tim at http://www.totalwoodfinishing.co.uk These guys are the best! Some of the pictures in my gallery are over thirty years old and unlike me they improve with age!
Testimonials
"We recently acquired some marquetry crafted by Ian Smith. The subject is taken from the painting 'A Young Man at his Window' by the French impressionist Gustave Caillebotte. We are delighted to own such a skilful piece which is exceptionally well crafted and beautifully finished" -- Ray and Brenda Stokes, Perth, Western Australia.
"Ian Smith crafts marquetry to a most exquisite level. The delicate finish and artistic blend of colours and natural grain give depth and movement to his intricate pictures. The result is lifelike, emotive and nothing short of breathtaking. Most definitely the best marquetry I have come across." -- Mirriam Lawton, Lancashire, England.
"The Marquetry Shack is a hidden gem in the crafting community, run by long-time educator and artist Ian Smith. Ian is a craftsman in the truest sense of the word. He - - chooses to do all his projects by hand - just the way we like it!" Roarockit, Canada
"A master in his craft" Good Art Guide
"Heritage skills with a contemporary twist" HandmadeinBritain
"World class marquetry from a master of the art; original subjects and nobody else reflects contemporary themes so well" Usman Khan, Lahore, Punjab
email: ian_smith@live.com |phone: 447944 828037
