When he came to America 20 years ago, Po Shun Leong left behind a successful career as an architect. He came in search of artistic satisfaction. He always loved to build models, so he began making small art boxes. Those first boxes were made of plywood. Today, his art boxes are awe-inspiring works of function and form. Ranging in size from eight inches to eight feet, they are created out of exotic woods.
Po begins an art box by drawing out an idea in his sketchbook. He refines the design by next working on a dry erase board. Once he has an idea of the size and style of the box, he will create a "carcass" to further flesh out the idea. He begins by using a table saw to cut out the basic shapes of the box. Smaller pieces are then shaped using a band saw. This also allows him to work curves into the work. The wood pieces are fitted together, and the resulting "carcass" is a simplified mock-up of what the finished piece will look like. He's now ready to create the finished piece. It begins by choosing up to eight different exotic woods (purple hearts, mahogany, walnut, etc.). The same process is used: cutting out the larger shape with a table saw and the smaller pieces with a band saw. Po fits them together to create the "skeleton" of the box. Next he will cut smaller shapes, and fit these into the skeleton. The skeleton is then glued together with ordinary wood glue. Once dry, Po uses a small motorized sander to give detail and character to the wood. Afterward, an oil finish and lacquer are applied.
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