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Ron Layport spent 40 years in the advertising business, receiving numerous national and international awards for his work in design, writing and film production.
During the 1980's, Layport began designing and building one-of-a-kind furniture, working every joint and surface by hand. His work was published as feature articles in Fine Woodworking magazine (FWW #78 and #89, cover feature).
Introduced to studio woodturning in 1992 by David Ellsworth, Layport began turning professionally in 2000.
Though Layport's intent had been to learn how to turn legs for his furniture, he became intrigued by the turned vessel and has never looked back.

ARTIST'S STATEMENT

My work celebrates a connection with Earth and its creatures. Natural imagery, ancient cultures, spiritual rhythms and the materials themselves are all sources of inspiration. Animal effigy figures have inspired ceremonial objects and utilitarian vessels since the earliest forms of human expression. My efforts are directed toward bringing my own voice to this endeavor.
Working at the lathe brings focus and form to the work. Sculpting and texturing of natural materials enriches that journey, creating a personal dialog and hopefully a shared experience with the viewer. Much of the maker remains in each piece.