The South Carolina lowcountry has maintained a strong attraction throughout Ben’s life since being born and raised in Allendale, S.C. After meandering through various educational institutions and completing a tour of duty with the USAF, he practiced pediatrics in Orangeburg, S.C. for 43 years before finally moving to Lands End on St. Helena Island in 2015.

The beauty of wood has exerted strong influence upon Ben’s craft/art development. What began as an experiment with the lathe became an attraction bordering obsession. Seriously turning since 2002, there have been learning experiences with recognized experts in the field a well as participation in local and national turning organizations.

Each turned creation is “one of a kind” and stands alone as a unique presentation. Even the apparently repetitive bottle stoppers are actually individually crafted, not duplicated or stamped.

The evolution of his work has as its central focus the improvement in crafted quality and presentation of the fundamental beauty of the wood grain. Most of the wood has its origin in the South Carolina lowcountry and is part of a renewable forestry. Finishes are chosen to enhance the beauty of the figure inherent in the wood and are applied in the ageless manner of the hand-rubbed oil and wax finish that allows the wood to develop a rich patina. With simple care the piece may be treasured for generations.

Ben’s juried exhibitions have included participation in the South Carolina Artisan Center in Walterboro and the City of North Charleston’ “Palmetto Hands” (selected as part of the travel exhibit by the S.C. Art Association.