Artisan - Lacey Rivard

I was born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1978 and was raised in the central interior region of British Columbia on a vast empire of ranchland. These expansive surroundings instilled in me a total freedom of thought and creativity ... and the beginnings of an unfettered imagination.

I was always very artistic and began by drawing, painting, carving, and sculpting in and on many different mediums. Dreams of power tools and exotic hardwoods began to take center stage in my last years of high school. I graduated in 1997 with an excellence in woodworking certificate and a scholarship award. Shortly after, at the age of 19, I began an in-depth apprenticeship with Luthier Roch Schneider, constructing hand-made custom guitars. During these 4 1/2 years of training I developed an even deeper passion, and appreciation for wood. I believe one of the most valuable lessons I have learned is ... "learning to learn." I was shown that our imagination is truly our only limit.

In 2002 I was finally equipped with enough tools for my own woodworking shop. In early 2003, at the age of 24, I began my own custom woodworking business known as Ebony and Ivory Woodworks, in Prince George, B.C. I specialize in one-of-a-kind exotic hardwood boxes. I have developed my own style, having incorporated my unique training into my own art. My pieces are all handcrafted originals, with designs free of boundaries or limitations. Every captivating contour carries with it a part of me. It's not just woodworking for me ... it's a part of my soul. I like to portray my inspirations and love of life through each piece, and create a thing of beauty that others will enjoy and cherish for generations to come.

In October of 2006 I was honored to receive the title of  "Home Based Business of the Year"- an Award which is sponsored by TELUS, and awarded by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce for Business Excellence.  This award will continue to inspire, and promote the future of my Art. 

Lacey J. Rivard