Since 1982, Bryans Gallery has represented exceptional artistry of the Southwest and the Eight Northern Pueblos. We have estate and contemporary jewelry, paintings, sculpture, pottery, Zuni fetishes, rugs and baskets. Some of the finest rare examples of Southwestern American Indian arts and craft can be found in our gallery, a brick and mortar building in Taos, New Mexico. Our staff is knowledgeable and friendly. We are known for our customer satisfaction.
Turned wood sculptural bowl by Jimmy Cook with inlaid turquoise cabochons and chips. Bowl #1858 is made from a downed colored aspen tree. Jimmy located this downed tree in the La Plata Mountains of the San Juan Range in Southern Colorado. The inlay is turquoise and the black is magnetite from the desert sands of Arizona. The bowl measures 5 1/2 inches high and 7 inches diameter.
Jim Cook, Master Woodturner, selects wood from logs left by wood cutters, timber companies and diseased or naturally fallen trees. He turns the wood slowly to determine the shape and style of the work of art. The design is often changed as the piece unfolds to best show the grain and intricate details. Turquoise is often inlaid in the wood to further enhance the design. The piece is carefully sanded and sealed to show the true color of the wood. Each showpiece is numbered, signed and dated. With the proper care, this handcraft will be a lasting work of beauty. Do not allow it to come in direct contact with excessive moisture or heat.
Jimmy Cook was raised in Mancos, Colorado. Starting in his pre-teen years, he worked in the family business, Aspencraft, where he quickly learned to admire and appreciate the natural beauty of Aspen and other woods. He spent much of his life in the outdoors both for recreation and work and has marveled at the beauty of nature. After serving four years in the U S Navy, he returned to Mancos where he and his wife owned a lumber yard and hardware store for over twenty years. He also became involved in mining of precious metals and metallurgy work. He designed and constructed his lathe and began turning beautiful wood hand-turned showpieces.
Each showpiece is numbered, signed, and dated. With proper care, this handcraft will be a lasting work of beauty. Do not allow it to come in direct contact with excessive moisture or heat.