Kauai Woodturner Robin Clark

Cook pine (Araucaria columnaris) is endemic to New Caledonia and was first classified by Johann Reinhold Forster, a botanist on the second voyage of Captain James Cook to circumnavigate the globe as far south as possible. The tree was subsequently propagated throughout the Pacific islands for use in masts (for which is turned out to be not well suited).  Cook pine is often confused with Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) due to their similar appearances.

The dark colors derive from "spalting"-  caused by fungi that set in soon after the wood is cut. The bowl is 12.75 x 4.5 inches and features a rim for ease of handling.  The finish is linseed oil/shellac followed by paste wax.  The bowl can be used for salad or fruit and can be washed with soap and water.  If the shiny finish is desired it can be maintained by occasional application of a paste wax.

Robin Clark is a semi-retired medicinal chemist who moved to Kauai from California in 2001.  He has subsequently pursued his long dormant interest in woodworking and makes bowls, jewelry boxes, and indoor and outdoor furniture.