Butler County

Wood/Metal Art

“I have always been a ‘wood gatherer’” said Harry Dearing. He has been creating wood and metal items “sporadically for about fifteen years” after being inspired by a local craftsman, his wife, and his parents who are also creative and encouraging.

Harry’s “palette” consists of wood from naturally felled trees, ones that Butler County has cut, and from small local sawmills. The ideas for his work comes from the wood itself, which as he says “typically, they just have to speak to me”! If using dry wood for simple pieces, several weeks is the time period to complete a project.

Most of the wood that Harry uses comes from the Black Belt, and he says that having people commission a piece he has made is most rewarding and enjoyable.

When Harry was asked if he was passing his enthusiastic talents working in wood and metal on to anyone else he answered “Hopefully!” Although he does not “teach” he “shares” his work with others.

Harry’s work is also on display at the High Horse Gallery in Greenville, AL.