Roger Dinger, Wood
I locate old farm buildings that are about to be demolished, obtain salvage rights, and reclaim the boards, timbers, nails, hinges, doors, and other reusable parts. The materials are then brushed clean, transported to my studio, sorted and stacked in dry storage bins to await rebirth as Reinbarnation functional art.
Barns are some of the few structures around where untreated wood is placed in direct sunlight with wind and rain affecting it for 100 years or more. The result of this time-weathering is a beautiful, character-rich patina that varies in texture and color from silver to black, gold, and every imaginable shade of gray. In designing and constructing my art I strive to preserve the natural weathered character of the wood. On some pieces planing and oiling are limited to board backs and table tops. Other pieces may be planed smooth and hand-oiled to reveal hidden color and grain. The function and aesthetic of my work is often determined by the characteristics of the wood chosen. Where feasible, I construct my pieces using rusty old square nails, aged hinges, horseshoes, and other reclaimed farm implements. When new fasteners (nails, screws, etc.) are necessary they are used so as to minimize their appearance. Using these recycled materials I create furniture (benches, tables, cabinets, beds), mirror and picture frames, and a variety of accessories (fireplace mantles, display shelves, decorative boxes, bird feeders, and plant boxes). Each piece of Reinbarnation art is functional and unique. I see beautiful potential in old barnwood. Through Reinbarnation I feel that I am capturing part of a bygone time as well as recycling wood for my artistic medium
