Salish Wolf #55 Jamie MacDonald on Project Quiver
Jamie MacDonald is a world-renowned bowyer who carves primitive bows primarily from Pacific yew. He is most known for his English longbows, which he and his wife Jenna meticulously craft under the brand name of Ravenbeak Natureworks in Powell River, British Columbia. Together they offer regular bow carving workshops and sell Ravenbeak bows to discerning customers around the globe. Keeping Ravenbeak all in the family, they have brought all of the family into Ravenbeak: their daughter and son craft beautiful arrows and also trinkets from the leftover bits of yew.
Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jamie MacDonald.
Links:
https://www.ravenbeak.com/
http://salishwolf.com/
http://projectquiver.com/
Summary:
In this engaging conversation, Jamie and Todd reconnect after several years, discussing the growth of their eco-conscious community, their recent family adventures in South America, and the intricacies of bow making. They explore themes of sustainability, community living, and the importance of family bonding through travel and shared experiences. The conversation also delves into the craftsmanship of bow making, highlighting innovative techniques and the significance of naming each bow, reflecting their unique stories and the connection to nature. This conversation also explores the origins of the Ravenbeak brand and the unique qualities of yew wood. They discuss the transition into bow making, the challenges and joys of running a family business, and the deep connections formed through archery. The conversation highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating traditional bows and the personal stories that shape the art of bow making.
Show Notes:
The community has grown to include eight full-time families.
They focus on natural building techniques and sustainability.
The community is currently in a 'nourishment phase' to reconnect and stabilize.
They have built six new houses using eco-friendly materials.
The family took a five-month trip to South America for surfing and cultural experiences.
They prioritize affordability and support within the community.
The bow-making business has been running for over a decade.
Jenna and Ravenbeak collaborate effectively in their bow-making business.
They have introduced innovative designs in bow craftsmanship.
The naming of bows reflects a deep connection to history and mythology. Naming bows helps in teaching and communication.
Ravenbeak's brand story is deeply connected to nature.
Yew wood is the primary material for bow making.
The journey of bow making began with a significant yew tree.
Teaching workshops has been a fulfilling part of the business.
Building bows requires a blend of art and science.
The importance of community and connections in archery.
Family involvement is crucial in the business.
The transition to full-time bow making was supported by parental leave.
Craftsmanship in bow making is a lifelong learning process.
Chapters:
00:00 Reconnecting and Community Updates
02:37 Building an Eco-Conscious Community
05:40 Community Dynamics and Growth
08:38 Sustainable Living and Natural Building
11:32 Traveling to South America
17:25 Surfing Adventures and Family Bonding
23:16 Homeschooling Journey and Future Plans
26:27 Bow Making Business Insights
29:15 The Art of Collaboration in Bow Making
30:38 Transitioning from Custom to Stock Bows
33:02 Workshops: Teaching the Craft of Bow Making
34:53 The Journey of Bow Ownership and Teaching
36:24 Innovations in Bow Design: Mosaic Inlays
40:56 The Significance of Naming Bows
44:40 The Craft of Wood Burning and Personalization
48:16 The Genesis of the Ravenbeak Brand
54:16 The Connection to Yew Wood and Bow Making
59:42 The Journey of Bow Making
01:04:21 Learning and Teaching Bow Making
01:09:03 Transitioning to Full-Time Bowyer
01:15:40 Building a Bow Business
01:22:55 Exploring Bow Design and Materials
01:30:11 The Art of Tiller and War Bows
01:37:18 Family and Community in Bow Making