Artist’s Statement

Spalted Sycamore with Mahogany Base by MatandaI have been creating things out of wood nearly all my life, first working as a child with my father, then building my own home and finally turning to fine woodworking. Along the way, I became obsessed with balance, precision and finish while creating original designs. As my skills progressed, I became a regular exhibitor in several regional juried art shows. I’m proud that my signed works are now located around the world, from Stockholm, Sweden to Jakarta, Indonesia and Beijing, China.

My purpose and my challenge is to create useful art that is one with nature. My passion is to reveal and share the wonder hidden beneath the bark of the trees of the world. I have worked with more than 90 species of hardwood. Each has its own beauty and personality.

Vic Barr in his workshop turning a pen.My perfectionist tendencies drive the execution of each piece. I’m happiest in my workshop – designing and creating pieces that enhance the beauty of the woods of the world. They are spectacular in their own right, so I only use clear finishes on my pieces. And if I can reuse heritage woods that have historical value or hold special meaning for a family, well, that’s even more satisfying.

Affiliations and Exhibits

Greater St. Louis Art Association (GSLAA):
President and Juried member
Co-chair of the organization’s two annual fine arts and crafts fairs

Missouri Artisans Association, Best of Missouri Hands (BOMH):
Juried member, Treasurer and Board member

Saint Louis Artists Guild (SLAG):
Active member of the Creative Artisan Section

St. Louis Woodworkers Guild:
Active member and lecturer

Gateway Gallery, Clayton, MO
Exhibiting Partner

William Woods University, award winner in juried exhibit

Silver Dollar City juried exhibition

Vic’s work has been received well by judges in the many art shows he does each year, resulting in more than a dozen first-in-category prizes and many other Artistic Merit awards.