Bruce Fransen

Bruce grew up on Long Island, NY. Near the seashore, where he has gleaned an abundance of creative images and inspiration. He now resides in Harpers Ferry, WV. He has been working wood since the early 70’s both as an arborist and artist. Over the last 15 years, creating his stunning wood sculptures has become an all-consuming passion.

His unique art is informed by his love of the waterways of his youth, his extensive knowledge and experience in preserving trees over the 40+year career and his fine arts education at Virginia Commonwealth University.

As a professional woodwind musician, his improvisational approach to music carries over to his unique sculptures. His love for the innate beauty, versatility and potential for great surprises continue to be discovered when working with wood. “I feel a profound relationship between my music, my sculptures, the sea and trees.

The Process: Starting with a log and a chainsaw, the process quickly becomes rigorous and time-consuming, refining with grinders, sanders and fine tool work. Most pieces are brought to a high polish to enhance grain. Texture and color are sometimes added as new elements for dramatic visual and tactile experience.

Winner of the 2017 WV Governor’s Award, Shell Form #45 now part of WV State Museums permeant collection.