Erica Preston-French: What kind of media do you work in why? What are challenges/rewards?

Jon Busuttil: I am a carpenter -of sorts. I work with all kinds of exotic woods. I enjoy using reclaimed lumber or turning an old, used “this” into a new and functional “that”. The tool box I carry all my favorite hand tools was once a small chest of drawers. I found it buried in the snow outside my apartment building a couple of years ago. I took it to work and in a matter of two hours I had a new toolbox.

I also made all the covers and plates on all my basses out of wood. Recently, I have been making jewelry - rings and pendants, mainly. I also craft one-offs (any design or size that I care to make at the time) and custom pieces.

EPF: How do you find yourself working in these media?

JB: My grandfather is a carpenter. I remember watching him making stuff when I was a kid and always admired him for it. Because of him, I took woodworking in high school. Everyone was making tables and shelves and picture frames; so, naturally, I made a bass guitar. I bought a neck from George Ferlanetto and made a huge, ugly flying “V”. It was heavy and awful but I played it for years.

The next step was to see what else I could make off the top of my head. I started making boxes, longboards, and shelves. I crafted a bridge for one of my basses.

EPF: You’re a musician. How does this influence your craft?

JB: To tell you the truth I don’t think that being a musician and making stuff outta other stuff influence each other much -save for when I cut finger making stuff and regret it later when I try to play some bass.

There is, however, a connection between art and music in general. Music is an art form and, as with painting, carving, working with clay, or whatever medium you choose, it can be used to express certain emotions and desires.

EPF: Do you struggle with placing a monetary value on your work?

JB: Yes! I always under-price everything. I even end up giving stuff away. It means a lot to me when I finish a “this” or a “that” but I love seeing the look on someone’s face when I tell them “ ‘this’ is yours”. I am still learning what I should charge for things.

EPF: In your mind what’s the difference between art and crafts?

JB: Art is something that inspires thought and elicits an emotional reaction. The artist can force an opinion or perception on someone or simply and surreptitiously make suggestions. If crafts are your art then crafts are your art.

Artists who would like to sell their work in  Out of the Box may contact Erica Preston-French: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it