{"title":"Peter Spence","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"606\" data-end=\"925\"\u003eBorn and raised in \u003cstrong data-start=\"625\" data-end=\"649\"\u003eThunder Bay, Ontario\u003c\/strong\u003e, Peter discovered his calling early — carving wood in school while his classmates sketched in pencil. His art teacher recognized the spark, handing him tools and time to whittle through the school year. That encouragement set the course for a lifelong relationship with wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"927\" data-end=\"1368\"\u003eAfter moving west to \u003cstrong data-start=\"948\" data-end=\"961\"\u003eVancouver\u003c\/strong\u003e, Peter apprenticed under his first woodworking mentor, mastering the ways of the woodshop. Over the years, he refined his craft in architectural millwork and furniture design, rising to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1148\" data-end=\"1166\"\u003eHead Machinist\u003c\/strong\u003e and later \u003cstrong data-start=\"1177\" data-end=\"1203\"\u003eProcess Design Manager\u003c\/strong\u003e in a French door manufacturing firm. These years of precision and patience would later define the meticulous care he brings to each \u003cstrong data-start=\"1336\" data-end=\"1367\"\u003ehand-crafted decorative box\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1370\" data-end=\"1791\"\u003eDeeply inspired by \u003cstrong data-start=\"1389\" data-end=\"1414\"\u003eJapanese architecture\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"1419\" data-end=\"1455\"\u003eArts and Crafts movement masters\u003c\/strong\u003e such as \u003cem data-start=\"1464\" data-end=\"1484\"\u003eFrank Lloyd Wright\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"1486\" data-end=\"1518\"\u003ethe Greene and Greene brothers\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"1520\" data-end=\"1534\"\u003eJames Krenov\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"1536\" data-end=\"1553\"\u003eGustav Stickley\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem data-start=\"1559\" data-end=\"1571\"\u003eSam Maloof\u003c\/em\u003e, Peter’s work reflects a quiet harmony between \u003cstrong data-start=\"1619\" data-end=\"1655\"\u003esimplicity, function, and beauty\u003c\/strong\u003e. The clean geometry of \u003cstrong data-start=\"1679\" data-end=\"1696\"\u003eShaker design\u003c\/strong\u003e also whispers through his joinery and finishes — a celebration of restraint and timeless form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1793\" data-end=\"2307\"\u003eHis craftsmanship has touched some remarkable chapters of Canadian art history. Peter helped build the wooden crates that transported molds for \u003cem data-start=\"1937\" data-end=\"1978\"\u003eBill Reid’s “The Spirit of Haida Gwaii”\u003c\/em\u003e to the United States for bronze casting, and later created twenty-four elegant boxes to house \u003cem data-start=\"2073\" data-end=\"2109\"\u003eRobert Davidson’s silver bracelets\u003c\/em\u003e. These collaborations, along with commissions for \u003cstrong data-start=\"2160\" data-end=\"2190\"\u003eJapanese Jiu-Jitsu masters\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong data-start=\"2197\" data-end=\"2235\"\u003eZen teacher’s ceremonial vestments\u003c\/strong\u003e, deepened his reverence for form, balance, and spirit within the craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2309\" data-end=\"2853\"\u003eToday, Peter works from his \u003cstrong data-start=\"2337\" data-end=\"2369\"\u003estudio on Salt Spring Island\u003c\/strong\u003e, a lovingly converted horse barn that now hums with the scent of shellac, cedar, and music. Each of his \u003cstrong data-start=\"2474\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003ewooden boxes\u003c\/strong\u003e begins with the search for a beautiful, story-filled piece of wood. The grain is carefully matched, the surfaces sanded, French-polished, and finished by hand — often lined with fine fabric and fitted with custom handles. Depending on complexity, a single box can take up to three days to complete — a meditative process where craftsmanship meets quiet devotion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2855\" data-end=\"3138\"\u003ePeter’s artistry has also extended to \u003cstrong data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2956\"\u003ebespoke furniture, Shoji lamps, and acoustic speaker design\u003c\/strong\u003e. His background in acoustics and passion for music led to the creation of unique home audio systems for local islanders, where the sound is as artful as the cabinetry that holds it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3140\" data-end=\"3353\"\u003eHis creative journey continues with new prototypes for \u003cstrong data-start=\"3195\" data-end=\"3241\"\u003elamps, tables, and sculptural wooden forms\u003c\/strong\u003e, all reflecting his enduring respect for nature’s materials and the Chinese philosophy that \u003cem data-start=\"3335\" data-end=\"3353\"\u003e“easy is right.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"3355\" data-end=\"3560\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3357\" data-end=\"3560\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"3357\" data-end=\"3541\"\u003e\"Easy is right. Begin right and you are easy.\u003cbr data-start=\"3403\" data-end=\"3406\"\u003eContinue easy and you are right.\u003cbr data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3443\"\u003eThe right way to go easy\u003cbr data-start=\"3469\" data-end=\"3472\"\u003eIs to forget the right way\u003cbr data-start=\"3500\" data-end=\"3503\"\u003eAnd forget that the going is easy.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"3541\" data-end=\"3544\"\u003e— \u003cem data-start=\"3548\" data-end=\"3560\"\u003eChuang Tzu\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3562\" data-end=\"3746\"\u003eFrom Thunder Bay to Salt Spring Island, Peter’s work embodies a lifetime of learning, refinement, and reverence for wood — \u003cstrong data-start=\"3685\" data-end=\"3746\"\u003eeach box a vessel of craftsmanship, patience, and spirit.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"walnut-box-with-latch-peter-spence","title":"Walnut Box with Latch","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Walnut box with a vintage-inspired latch that invites a satisfying little “click” when closed. Warm, timeless, and beautifully finished, it’s the perfect everyday box for jewelry, keepsakes, or items you want tucked away but always close by. A quiet companion piece built to last a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727841325247,"sku":"PESP34","price":420.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/3_ce76b807-71c6-40ed-8670-1c1303053328.jpg?v=1763354806"},{"product_id":"long-walnut-box-with-sliding-lid-cocobolo-peter-spence","title":"Long Walnut Box with Cocobolo Handle and Sliding Lid","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis long, elegant Walnut box is capped with a sculpted Cocobolo handle and a smooth-gliding sliding lid. Its elongated shape is perfect for pens, brushes, glasses, artist tools, or small ceremonial objects. Walnut’s warm grain and Peter’s meticulous joinery make it both functional and artistic.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727842603199,"sku":"PESP04","price":420.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/4_793e73d7-85c1-4cd0-b9b3-e500b9d506d2.jpg?v=1763356367"},{"product_id":"bloodwood-box-with-lid","title":"Bloodwood Box with Lid","description":"\u003cp\u003eBloodwood is naturally vibrant — a deep, glowing red that hardly seems possible in the plant kingdom. This sleek, simple box puts that colour on full display. Compact and strong, it’s the perfect home for tiny treasures, rings, or tokens of meaning. A bold little statement piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727853449407,"sku":"PESP43","price":540.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox3.jpg?v=1763357275"},{"product_id":"tori-rose-wood-kleenex-box","title":"Japanese Tori Rose Wood Kleenex Box","description":"\u003cp\u003eElevate the humble tissue box. Crafted from \u003cspan\u003eBrazilian Rosewood\u003c\/span\u003e, this piece turns a daily household object into a miniature work of sculpture. Smooth lines, rich colour, and a design-forward presence make it suitable for the living room, studio, office, or meditation space. Beauty in the everyday — the 'Japanese Tori Gate' inspired way.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727854465215,"sku":"PESP105","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox4.jpg?v=1763357766"},{"product_id":"african-wood-wedge-box-peter-spence","title":"African Wood Wenge Box","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis box is crafted from Wenge, a dark and expressive African hardwood known for its deep espresso tones and dramatic striping. Its clean silhouette and satisfying weight make it a perfect companion for modern interiors — understated, refined, and built to last generations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727859118271,"sku":"PESP19","price":360.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox5.png?v=1763358452"},{"product_id":"salt-spring-yew-wood-box-peter-spence","title":"Salt Spring Yew Wood Box","description":"\u003cp\u003eYew is a treasured Island wood — slow-growing, rich in colour, and filled with swirling amber tones. This box is shaped from Salt Spring Yew, giving it both local spirit and natural elegance. Lightweight yet strong, it’s an ideal home for heirlooms, jewelry, or personal talismans. Simple, soulful, and unmistakably West Coast.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727862001855,"sku":"PESP29","price":420.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox6.jpg?v=1763358983"},{"product_id":"handmade-wooden-box","title":"Cocobolo with Milk Paint","description":"\u003cp\u003eCocobolo’s dramatic grain meets the soft, matte elegance of milk paint — a finish beloved by traditional woodworkers for its warmth and heritage aesthetic. This box balances bold natural beauty with a calm, contemporary exterior. A striking and unexpected combination for lovers of unique craftwork.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727863804095,"sku":"PESP44","price":420.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox8.jpg?v=1763359452"},{"product_id":"birds-eye-maple-box-with-ebony-detail-salt-spring","title":"Birds Eye Maple Box with Ebony Detail","description":"\u003cp\u003eSleek, bright, and meticulously crafted, this Birdseye Maple box features a subtle Ebony inlay that adds a note of visual contrast and sophistication. Smooth lines and expert joinery give it a modern feel rooted in traditional craft. Perfect for jewelry, watches, or your favourite sentimental miniature.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727896342719,"sku":"PESP30","price":420.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox9_2.jpg?v=1763361659"},{"product_id":"birds-eye-maple-box-with-cocobolo-handle","title":"Birds Eye Maple Box, Cocobolo Handle with Japanese Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn elegant marriage of natural materials and Japanese influence. The Birdseye Maple shimmers with tiny constellations, while the Cocobolo handle adds rich depth. Inside, the box is lined with traditional Japanese paper — a quiet nod to the design philosophies that inspire Peter’s work. A refined keepsake box with an inner world of beauty.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727908892863,"sku":"PESP40","price":540.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox9_f9c12253-689c-4497-ad9c-7d5b49b9c755.jpg?v=1763362442"},{"product_id":"cocobolo-box-with-maple-burl-lid-peter-spence","title":"Cocobolo Box with Maple Burl Lid","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis small sculpture-of-a-box pairs dramatic Cocobolo sides with a stunning Maple burl lid — nature’s abstract painting. Each swirl and cell in the burl is unique, making the lid a miniature topography of light and shadow. A refined, one-of-a-kind container for jewelry, memory objects, or precious odds and ends you want to protect in style.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728178802879,"sku":"PESP100","price":540.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox9_92b75181-7076-40df-8d55-a40d57fbef73.jpg?v=1763363149"},{"product_id":"south-african-cocobolo-waxed-box-peter-spence","title":"South African Cocobolo Waxed Box","description":"\u003cp\u003eCocobolo is one of the most striking hardwoods on Earth, and this box lets it take center stage. Deep reds, chocolate tones, and contrasting sapwood ripple across its surface, sealed with a silky hand-applied wax finish. Dense, heavy, and richly aromatic, it’s a box that feels good simply to hold. Ideal for collectors, wood lovers, or anyone who appreciates bold natural patterning.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728464769215,"sku":"PESP20","price":360.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox10.jpg?v=1763363700"},{"product_id":"curly-maple-box-with-birdseye-maple-lid-and-bloodwood-handle","title":"Curly Maple Box with Birdseye Maple Lid and Bloodwood Handle","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"3801\" data-end=\"4165\"\u003eA symphony of three remarkable hardwoods. The swirling grain of Curly Maple meets the shimmering complexity of Birdseye Maple, topped with a sculpted Bloodwood handle that adds a deep red accent. Light, bright, and quietly luxurious, this box feels like it was designed to store your finest little treasures. A functional piece of art with a vivid natural palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728614224063,"sku":"PESP39","price":480.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox11.jpg?v=1763364110"},{"product_id":"handmade-wooden-box-peter-spence","title":"Handmade Wooden Box","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg\u003eClassic, clean, and beautifully understated, this handmade wooden box showcases Peter’s commitment to simplicity and form. Crafted slowly by hand in his Salt Spring Island studio, it’s the ideal vessel for jewelry, keepsakes, or the small daily objects that deserve a designated home. A minimalist heirloom for people who value craftsmanship over mass production.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728777605311,"sku":"PESP02","price":540.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox11.png?v=1763364558"},{"product_id":"salt-spring-chestnut-box-with-french-polish","title":"Salt Spring Chestnut Box with French Polish","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis elegant keepsake box is crafted from locally sourced Salt Spring Island Chestnut and finished with Peter’s signature hand-rubbed French polish — a luminous, old-world technique that lets the grain glow like warm honey. Smooth to the touch and deeply refined, it’s the perfect home for rings, small treasures, or the sentimental odds and ends that deserve better than a junk drawer. A gentle, timeless piece made from island wood with island soul.\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Spence","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728780947647,"sku":"PESP28","price":420.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/files\/PeterSpenceBox11_cf93018e-ba3c-437b-b0bc-fad1484d32f1.jpg?v=1763364904"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0042\/6196\/9990\/collections\/Peter_Spence.jpg?v=1761009378","url":"https:\/\/www.steffichfineart.com\/en-us\/collections\/peter-spence.oembed","provider":"Steffich Fine Art","version":"1.0","type":"link"}