Bob Stoker is a dedicated wood turning artist based in St. Augustine, Florida. He is an active member of both the American Association of Woodturners and the St. Augustine Art Association, where he has showcased his work and garnered several awards from local art shows.

Bob's craft reflects his passion for artistry and nature, primarily focusing on hollow wooden vessels. His process begins with collecting wood from locally fallen trees, allowing him to create pieces that resonate with the regional landscape. Utilizing a lathe, he meticulously turns solid blocks of wood, shaping each vessel with hand-held gouges. This phase demands precision and patience, as the shaping of the exterior is often a lengthy endeavor.

The hollowing process further showcases his skill, employing various tools and hooks to carefully gauge the thickness of the wood. This stage requires keen attention, as Bob uses clamps and his tactile sense to ensure the integrity of the materials. Following the hollowing, the green wood must be dried, either in a kiln or left to air-dry, with daily checks on its progress. Once adequately dried, the piece returns to the lathe for final shaping, sanding, and finishing touches.

Bob's thin-walled creations, while elegant and striking, also call for careful handling as they can be fragile. He advises that they should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods to preserve their beauty. Through his craftsmanship, Bob Stoker continues to explore the intersection of art and nature, contributing richly to the local artistic community.