Gregg Smith Works

Gregg Smith developed an initial love of woodworking in a Junior High School wood shop class in Montana.

After pursuing a college degree in History and Political Science at the University of Montana, he moved to Alaska.  There he met his wife, and eventually ended up working with his father-in-law building furniture and cabinetry.

In 1984, Gregg relocated to Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii.  He continued a career in woodworking, employed in two local shops until 1989 when he started his own cabinetry and furniture business.

In 1996, he inherited his father-in-law's lathe and library and soon afterwards began his current occupation, turning segmented vessels.  Applying his woodworking skills with that of the lathe has created a whole new area in woodworking for Gregg to explore.  Gregg's love for the magnificent Hawaiian hardwoods, especially Koa, can be seen in his work which is scattered across the Globe.

Gregg's segmented wood turnings of bowls, vases, urns and other decorative vessels are all one of a kind pieces.  Most of the designs have little utility, but like a sculptor, he uses form, shape and color to create an art object that can become the finishing touch to a well decorated home or office anywhere in the world.

Laminated wood turnings have been created for many years, but few turners have used this old craft technique to turn it into such a fine art form.  In studying the designs of the Orient, the Grecians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, American Indians and Hawaiians, Gregg has shown that good design has a lasting quality of its own.  His use of primarily Hawaiian hardwoods combines many of these ancient designs with the beautiful woods of our Hawaiian islands.

Gregg's turnings are finished with high quality Danish Oil mixed finishes that are easily cleaned and polished using a good furniture polish.  They should not, however, be submerged in water or left outdoors.

In recognition of his artistry, Gregg received numerous awards for his turnings and has served as a judge in several wood shows.  His articles and pictures have also been published in turning trade journals.

Professional memberships include the American Association of Woodturners, Hawaii Forestry Industry Association, Hawaii Craftsmen, Hawaii Wood Guild, of which he currently serves as Treasurer and the Big Island Woodturner's Club which he formerly served as Vice-President and President and is currently serving on their Board of Directors.