John Cunnan is an artist who translates his ideas into wood and speaks to those who look and listen through his carvings and wood miniatures. He has built projects that include barns, houses, fine custom cabinetry and furniture for homes and churches. He restores antiques and is an experienced gardener and landscape designer.

He is a natural teacher and feels it is important to communicate philosophy along with the satisfaction of creating something useful from a piece of wood. He emphasizes our responsibility of stewardship and care to the earth, the wood, and each other as he teaches woodcraft. He is always kind and encouraging as he guides a student through the stages of building a project.

One of John’s first projects for his students is to have them carve a simple wooden spoon from a block of wood. What a learning experience! To learn to carve away enough wood, but not too much - to carve the bowl of a spoon and a simple graceful handle and be able to take it home and stir a pot of soup with it.

John has taught through Mendocino College, Round Valley Indian Tribes - Tech Prep Center, Round Valley High School, Covelo Christian School, 4-H and to those who come to his shop for his guidance. He would be happy to bring his skills to the classroom with ARTS ALIVE!