Welcome to the inaugural post on our BlackWalnut.Art blog, where we dive into the serendipitous journey of two friends, Doug King and Nate DiNiro, and a remarkable black walnut tree from Oregon’s verdant Willamette Valley. This is not just a story about crafting wood but about where nature’s raw beauty meets human creativity and wonder.
The Discovery
It all began with an unexpected discovery during one of Doug’s leisurely drives through the picturesque back country of Oregon. Amidst the sprawling landscapes, a majestic black walnut tree caught his eye. This wasn’t just any tree; it stood out with its robust trunk and sprawling branches—a silent witness to decades, if not centuries, of history. The tree was initially felled by a local power company, its future uncertain and potentially unremarkable. However, Doug saw something different: potential and beauty.
Recognizing the unique opportunity before him, Doug approached the farmer on whose land the tree lay. After several conversations, an agreement was reached, and the tree was purchased, marking the first step towards what would become BlackWalnut.Art.
From Logs to Slabs
Doug, with the help of his son, undertook the meticulous process of sawing the tree into manageable logs. These logs were then transported to a local sawmill in McMinnville, where they were carefully slabbed, air, and sun dried—a process that preserves the integrity and enhances the character of the wood. This phase was not just about preparing the wood for use but about honoring the natural material, allowing it to slowly reveal its inner beauty and strength.
The Vision Takes Shape
Meanwhile, I (Nate DiNiro) joined Doug, bringing a shared vision and a passion for craftsmanship. Together, we housed the slabs, planning and waiting for the right time and the right collaborators to start creating something truly special. Our goal was not just to transform these slabs into functional items but to imbue them with a sense of story and purpose.
As we searched for collaborators who shared our ethos, our collection of black walnut slabs began to represent more than just potential projects. They symbolized a junction where craftsmanship meets environmental stewardship, where each piece reflects a commitment to sustainability and artistry.
BlackWalnut.Art Comes to Life
BlackWalnut.Art is more than a website or a business; it is a community and a platform where wood meets wonder. It is here that we showcase the transformative journey of each slab—from a seed in the fertile soils of the Willamette Valley to a centerpiece in someone’s home that sparks conversation and admiration.
Our work celebrates the natural imperfections and unique grain patterns of black walnut, turning them into one-of-a-kind tables, desks, and artistic installations that stand as testaments to the beauty of embracing natural materials.
Looking Forward
As we continue to explore and expand, our blog will serve as a space to share updates, insights, and stories behind each creation. We invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and creation, where every piece tells a story, and every story begins with a simple yet profound appreciation for the wonder of wood.
Thank you for visiting, and stay tuned for more tales from where wood truly meets wonder.
