We have several “MacGyvers” in our Leakey Collection family such as TLC manager Kristan Fazio and my husband Philip (to name a few). A “MacGyver” is a remarkably talented person who know how to make something from nothing much like the television hero; and of course fix anything with his Swiss Army knife! As a result of Philip “MacGyver” Leakey’s abilities- I am excited to announce we have new fallen hardwood coming soon!

After building our new workshop Philip was eager to work with our beautiful fallen hardwoods that we collect from an environmentally sustainable source here in Kenya. Maasai men are known for carving lovely 3 legged stools, rungas – wood clubs with a round end they use for protection when herding cattle, and other small household items. We have enlisted several to get our new fallen-hardwood line of products into production. It has long been a dream and now such fun to see the gorgeous grain of the wood come to life. I am reminded of a statement attributed to Michelangelo, “I release the figure from the stone”.

Not to make the comparison with Philip’s handy work; but I must say that the hardwood grain and warm golden, red and brown tones are so luxurious when sculpted. Each piece is a work of art and the hardwood trays, bowls, plates and small jewelry holders do look as though they have been “released” from the fallen hardwood.

The work is tedious, hard, and dirty but just like any piece of art - worth the labor! Every bowl, platter, tray, and small piece is lovingly hand sculpted, sanded, and waxed to perfection. We can’t wait to begin taking orders this coming January. Each piece is so unique that it is difficult to decide which ones I want to keep. Of course we’ll keep our first pieces, the testimony to learning and like children; we love the flaws of our own first born.

Pictured is MacGyver at work at his lathe, working on his first salad bowl. The other small bowls are gorgeous and I have my name on the one in the photo. I love the silvery tones to this particular piece of wood. We have 3 wedding presents for friends children selected too! And of course there is Christmas coming.