Barry Bradley’s expertise in fine craft, through a diverse array of medium, has been developing for over 40 years. His move to the Texas Hill Country from Houston years ago strengthened his desire to work exclusively with Native Texas woods and metal. Through experimentation and the desire to conquer challenges, Barry’s ideas and designs quickly developed into a fine craft.
Barry states “My mind is constantly working through new ideas. My sketch book is never far away and I am always working out my next art piece on paper prior to gathering materials and setting the tools up in my work space. The joy begins when rummaging through my vast collection of wood for the perfect pieces”.
Once the raw material is identified, Barry allows it to reveal its unique characteristics and true colors, which helps guide him to a finished piece. Barry enjoys creating the unexpected in furnishings and sculpture.
Barry’s career as a Building Trades and wood working teacher spanned 29 years until retirement in 2010. Not only did Barry teach his students how to build small cottages from the ground up but, he also provided them with the knowledge and hands-on skills to create fine furnishings and canoes. With his students and their projects, Barry would attend an annual state competition where his students always received the top awards.
“It was inspirational for me to have one of my students looking over my shoulder while I sketched out a design. Great joy came from a well-completed project and my student’s expression of pride. I feel that if my creativity inspired future generations to continue in the craft, I have been successful” says Barry.
Barry’s art has been featured in several magazines including Niche, Woodworkers West and Western Art Collector. His recent awards include: Bastrop Fine Arts Competition – First Place – September 2013, Texas Society of Sculptors’ “My Texas” Show – First Place – May 2013, Texas Furniture Makers Show – Judge’s Special Award – November 2012, Texas Furniture Makers Show – People’s Choice Award – 2014, Texas Furniture Maker’s Show – Best Art Style – 2014. Texas Furniture Maker’s Show – Turner’s Award – 2015, 2017.
“Texas Love Seat”
Award Winner at the 2017
Texas Furniture Makers Show
