The art of Intarsia can be traced back to ancient times. Works of Intarsia have been found within the tombs of Egypt. The term Intarsia comes from the Latin verb interserere, meaning to insert. The early form of this art used tiles, exotic woods and stone to produce pictures and tablets.

Modern Intarsia uses many different woods. By using different species of wood, one can produce a work of art as one would with paints and brushes. Working on an original design or a design by someone else, he selects the different wood as well as different grain patterns and cuts and shapes each piece and brings alive a work of nature.

JR has always loved to work with wood, making furniture and clocks. After reading an article on Intarsia about 5 years ago, he started his first piece. It turned out fairly well and has continued with Intarsia to this day. He uses hardwoods and aromatic cedar of the Ohio valley.

Aspen, along with the many colors from white to almost black of Western Red Cedar, are used to produce his works.

A scroll saw is his artists' tool, and the wood is his canvas. The use of various sanding tools, both machine and hand sanding, allows one to shape each piece, bringing the work to life.

His mother was a great influence on his life. She taught him that a job well done was all the reward one needs. A school teacher for most of her life, she also loved many art forms including tatting and quilting. “Many people call my work art. I like to consider myself a craftsman following in the footsteps of others,” says JR.

Other places that exhibit JR's art include:

• Murphin Ridge Manor
• Southern State Appalachian Gift Shop
• Burnt Cabin Farm
• The Pumphouse Gallery
• Manchester Emporium