Rolf Hook formed an affinity for wood from an early age during a childhood spent in Germany and the UK. Seven years of formal training culminated in a Masters Degree in Fine Woodworking. Rolf has received many awards including, in 1989, the prestigious German State Prize.
Rolf Hook strongly believes in the importance of minimalism, that less is more.
He strives to combine characteristics lying inherent in each piece of wood to create sculptures of extreme subtlety and aesthetic beauty - pure form, as a physical manifestation of abstract potential to establish an impact on our emotions.
In recent years he has travelled extensively in Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales and surrounding islands, living with the people, learning their history, customs and literature.
His work has become increasingly concerned with the underlying principles determining growth of trees and the forms it produces in its burrs, as well as the natural preservation and deterioration of wood in water and bog.
I come from a family of wood workers, inventors, designer and artists. I grew up with the wood workshop of my father next door. He was an architect and distinguished cabinet maker. I studied fine woodworking and was trained by some of the old masters. They helped me to understand materials and techniques. It freed my mind of the 'how do I do that' and gave me the space to concentrate on what I want to achieve.
http://www.rolfhook.com