Christopher Alan is a North Carolina artist and woodworker originally from Atlanta, Georgia. In 1997, he joined the United States Marine Corps, where he became an Air Traffic Controller, then later, a Combat Engineer. He learned about the carpentry trade and became interested in fine woodworking. In 2001, his ambitions led to the purchase of his first wood-burning tool, and scroll saw.
With no formal training, and guided by trial and error, pictures began to come alive. Christopher soon realized that many forms of visual art, from charcoal to tattoos are completed in much the same way. He studied shadow, light, mood, and human nature. Because not many books are written on the art of pyrography (fire-art), other forms of instructional art books soon filled his shelves. He applied and changed the techniques to better suit his art, and his pictures became more intricate and lifelike.
Christopher has taken orders for his style of woodwork from many people and organizations. His clients have included Weapons Training Battalion, Wounded Warrior Battalion-East, local novelists, and have been presented as commemorative gifts for anniversaries, events, and remembrance. His work has also been included in the 2009 NC Woodworker Calendar. He can take a photograph from a client and by hand, create a likeness unlike any other art form. He can take the subject and place him or her into a mythological or fantasy world, transforming them into mermaids, or kings.
From the artist:
“It is truly an honor for me to take on each challenge presented to me by my clients. Each picture and portrait has a personal story behind it. Whether the story is fantasy or reality, joyous or tearful, I strive to do it justice.”
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Woodwork shouldn't suck!"
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