TOM BENSON
| Tom started carving when he was very young, influenced by his father who also works with wood. Tom's career, however, began in a completely different direction as an aerospace engineer. He was quite literally a rocket scientist. Tom worked in companies in Germany and the U.S. where, among other duties, he designed the autopilot for the launch of the DirectTV satellite. After seven years in the aerospace industry, he decided to pursue his dream and start sculpting wood full time. Once carving became a way to make a living, he experimented with different kinds of carving projects trying a variety of traditional items such as painted wooden toys and cigar store indians. Tom has found that the carvings that attract the most attention are the bold animal sculptures that he most loves to create. His work can be found in collections all over the world including Joan Embery's, ambassador for the world famous San Diego Zoo. |
