Robert Neys

Robert Neys lives in Calgary, Alberta, but has always considered himself at home anywhere in Western Canada. With an academic background in biological sciences, he has reverent regard for every aspect of nature, including a passion for gardening and hiking, and as such, finds woodworking a fitting medium of expression. Robert firmly believes that even the simplest functional items can enhance a person's life and living space.

"The versatility of wood as a medium is endless; I am constantly surprised with what the material can do. As wood itself is natural, the intention is not to improve upon it, but rather, to simply reveal the nuances in the grain that were already present. I believe that the grain, texture, flexibility, figure and colour of wood species do not need to be altered through the use of dyeing stains, epoxy, or other techniques that would render the wood as something that it would not grow to be. Rather, each piece is selected for aesthetic and functional factors, where finishes are clear and the species are chosen based on the application and environment of the intended item."