Oddysey Calligraphy Conference. Circa 2010.

My journey as a stone carver.

I began my creative path with a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design and studies in Children’s Book Illustration at RISD. While there, I met a calligraphy teacher whose influence redirected my focus and led me to dive deeper into formal studies of lettering and calligraphy.

This shift in direction ultimately brought me to stone carving. After attending a Calligraphy Conference in 2010 and taking a workshop in stone carving, I discovered a new artistic path. Since 2014, I’ve worked professionally as a stone carver, specializing in memorials, architectural lettering, and sculptural work. My practice combines traditional techniques with a deep respect for craftsmanship, clarity, and intention.

In parallel with my artistic journey, I have embraced a Zen practice that shapes both my creative process and daily life. Carving stone is inherently meditative, and this mindful approach influences everything I create.

“To give lasting form to the stories that shape us, through hands guided by craft and reverence.”

Sente 先手 (beforehand) is a Japanese Go term.

That roughly translates to “to have the initiative.” A sente move is a move that the opponent must respond to, something that cannot be ignored. It is a move that gives the player initiative, as the opponent is forced to respond to it, the player with the initiative can gain some profit elsewhere on the board. Basically, in business, a sente move is not always easy to make, but it can be very effective. The key is to make a move that is so compelling that the competition cannot ignore it.

I am that initiative move.

In early spring of 2023, I decided to open SENTE Stoneworks, LLC to further my passion for storytelling and stone, combining the best of both worlds. I believe that stone carving is a powerful medium for communication. It can be used to create beautiful works of art, but it can also be used to tell stories and convey messages that will last for generations to come.

Vision Statement

SENTE Stoneworks, LLC envisions becoming a creative force in the shaping of timeless forms —artworks that give voice to human stories and echo the spirit of all creation.

Studying Japanese Go PRO games (Usually from old Masters).

(Left image) Bas-relief carving on black slate. Approx. 8″ long. (Right image) Digital drawing of a feather, with proportions and annotations.