Rousing color from a hidden hollow takes skill and study. A proficiency gained through a lifelong mastery of woodworking. And through continual trial and error.

One particular quest for learning takes place most every Saturday, when a busy countryside sawmill transforms into a craftsman’s laboratory. Here, Javier experiments. With wood, techniques, and finishes. In whatever direction his mind chooses to wander. His creatively imprecise efforts share a singular goal: to encourage the beauty and characteristics of the wood to reveal themselves. “Our father has always said to let nature lead,” says his son, Pablo.

In this fascinating lab of logs, Javier toys with chemistry, history, and artistry. Often by unexpected means and methods.

Like harnessing the elements. First, water. Where he has constructed vast pools to boil and bubble. Drawing out the rich tannins and pronounced graining from the weathered wood.

Next, with air. Charged with drying boards cell by cell. Pigments and patterns now deeper and darker, Javier opens the heavy, steel, kiln doors, setting steam free to rise.

Then, fire. Charring. Marking. Preserving. Adding energy to his efforts. Altering nature, structure, heat, and hue. And finally, Earth assists. Gathering the fallen sawdust necessary to flame and feed his transformations.

According to his sons, Javier disappears every weekend. Testing. Trying. Investigating, but with a sense of humor about it. Making mistakes on purpose. “It is incredible what he does with these woods,” adds Pablo. Concocting vinegar solutions to naturally alter the color. Using the juice of berries to deepen it.

While the results of his practice and process vary wildly, one observation remains constant. Javier never gets comfortable. His work is always evolving. According to his son, Rodrigo, “My father says when you stop and think you’ve made it, you fail.”

So, Javier will continue exploring. Seeking. Uncovering. Discovering. Forever searching for that something special. Realizing, it is often found along the way.