SUMMARY

Ken Price and Michael Hauser are accomplished woodworking craftsmen and friends from Langley here on Whidbey Island. The Wander in Wonder entry arch is formed from two mirrored slabs of a Whidbey Island cherry tree plus a separate piece of the same tree connecting the arch at the top, with lettering CNC’d by Lawrence Richards of Oak Harbor. The Entry Kiosk and Exit Kiosk curves were constructed of over 40 layers of laminated cedar, creating a special shape that integrates both form and function. After being removed from their forms, the supporting beams were smoothed and then tapered into a final configuration. As epoxy coat encapsulates the beam for weatherproofing. Cedar shingles were custom cut for the curved roofs.

ABOUT THE SCULPTURE

Michael and Ken collaborated as a team to create far more than an ordinary entry and sign kiosk.  This was a truly collaborative effort with all of the design team providing input on the appearance and details.

The Wander in Wonder entry arch is formed from two mirrored slabs of a Whidbey Island cherry tree plus a separate piece of the same tree connecting the arch at the top, with lettering CNC’d by Lawrence Richards of Oak Harbor.

The Entry Kiosk and Exit Kiosk construction was performed in Michael’s woodworking shop by Michael and Ken.  First, a form was set up for the curved laminated beams on each side. The curves were constructed of over 40 layers of laminated cedar strips, curved into a special shape that integrates both form and function.  After being removed from the forms, the beams were smoothed and then tapered into its final configuration. As epoxy coat encapsulates the beam for weatherproofing.

The posts and roof materials were prepared and machined in the shop prior to assembly onsite. Even the cedar shingles were especially prepared and cut to custom sizes to accommodate the curved roof.

Michael and Ken said the arch and kiosks were a joy to design and build.

ABOUT THE SCULPTORS

Michael and Ken are both woodworking craftsmen who live in Langley on Whidbey Island.  Ken is the father of the park founder and Michael is a dear family friend.  They have been sculpting wood for decades, creating boats, kayaks, furniture, and much more over the years.

Ken’s interest and skills in woodworking evolved since childhood.  His father was a commercial carpenter who was always willing to pass on his skills and interest in carpentry and tools.  As a young man, woodworking represented household projects but became a serious interest as he developed a passion for making nautical theme furniture and building or restoring wooden boats .

Ken enjoys working with unusual species of wood,  and he especially appreciates finding locally grown materials.  He specializes in building problem solving projects.  Using multiple wood species on a single project is one of his trademarks.  He creates functional items that not only look good but feel good to touch.

Michael developed his skills in woodworking through boat building and many other projects.