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Heather Kolbo

Heather Kolbo

Heather works with reclaimed wood. Her current body of work combines various carving techniques while implementing elements of intarsia. Repurposing wood brings back rich memories of her childhood in Iowa building treehouses and forts from found materials. Heather enjoys the exploration element in searching for her materials. Through creative reuse she also prevents these items from ending up in our waste stream. Many of her pieces utilize texture, color, and the grain of the wood to celebrate the natural world from her explorations. Heather's wood creations can be found in private collections around the globe, and several galleries in the region. She participates in some of the nation's premier fine art and crafts shows. Heather serves on the board of Alberta Street Gallery and on the board of Portland's Art in the Pearl, and often mentors local emerging artists. She is currently represented by Alberta Street Gallery in Portland, OR.

Heather's passion is art. She enjoys the endless possibilities of woodworking and creating original art that will hopefully encourage creative reuse and healthier relationships with nature. Nothing gives her greater joy than sharing her passion for art and nature with others.

"I consider my technique to be similar to painting. I couldn't think of a better way to depict landscapes, plants, and animals than with a little piece of nature itself. I utilize found and reclaimed wood pieces from local deconstruction in and around Portland. 

Careful consideration of the wood's texture, color, and grain are used to create shape, movement, and highlight elements of nature. Each piece of wood is hand cut and sanded. Every effort is taken to keep the wood natural or in its 'found' state, but occasionally pieces are hand painted or stained.

Repurposing wood helps eliminate these items from ending up in our landfills. Each piece has history and stood the test of time. I'm excited to bring new life to these items in my creations, and share these creations with you. I hope my artwork inspires you to slow your roll, examine your surroundings, take new outdoor explorations, and encourage creative ways to reduce and reuse."



Media: Mixed Media | Sculpture | Wood

Studio Number: 2

Address: 9724 N Willamette Blvd #2 Portland OR 97203

Community: N Portland

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible (slight slope down the driveway into studio)

Email: hkdesignpdx@gmail.com

Website: hkdesignpdx.com

Instagram: @hkdesignpdx