Live Edge Mahogany Side Table by Kurt Marsh

Description

Original Live-Edge Wood Piece from a 300-Year-Old Tree
This remarkable piece was created from a tree estimated to be more than 300 years old, harvested from the yard of Fort Christian in St. Thomas—the oldest standing building in the
U.S. Virgin Islands. Having witnessed centuries of history, the tree carries stories that are still visible in its grain.
“I usually work with live edge pieces. I like the tree and the wood to tell its own story… My
job as the creative is to help with the expression.”
Rather than hiding flaws, the artist preserves holes, rot, bug trails, stress marks, and areas of decay—features that reveal how the tree lived, adapted, and survived over time. 
“You could think of it as writer and editor—the writer has the vision and the editor brings everything together. I guess I edit for the trees.” 
The tree provides the vision, and the artist brings it together, carefully editing to help the wood express its story. Green stress marks, natural contours, and internal character are left visible, making each piece entirely one of a kind.
The live edge reveals natural stress marks formed where branches once broke or were cut and the tree grew around those moments, creating visual records of its life. 
“That’s a story that needs to be told.”
This artwork comes from the artist’s personal home collection and is considered one of their favorite recent works. 
“This tree itself has a whole lot of character. I’ve been having fun cutting
into sections of the log and bringing it to life.”
Cut from a section of the original log, the piece brings new life to historic material, connecting nature, history, and craftsmanship in a deeply meaningful way with a story embedded in every mark.

Shipping (if needed) is the responsibility of the winning bidder.

***Shipping (if needed) is the responsibility of the winning bidder.***

Kurt G. Marsh jr. is an architectural designer, wood worker, and activist redefining identity and culture in a 'post-colonial' St, John, USVI. With degrees from SCAD, he uses design and craftsmanship to challenge cultural norms, spark dialogue, and empower cultural preservation.