David is a self-taught, naturally talented spoon carver; using green wood and vintage  timber in knife finished, hand-carved, functional works of art. He collaborates with his wife Michelle, who paints whimsical flowers on their Bloom Spoons, makes jewellery and helps create new designs. Together as Phoenix Creations, they ethically source timber locally and create together in their studio in Cygnet, Tasmania.

Michelle believes in the beauty of everyday objects, not having to only attend a gallery to be exposed to art. Her Bloom Spoons are full of whimsy and loads of colour-actually colour oozes out of her every pore and into her work, whether it be a mosaic bird or a wooden spoon.

David’s path to wooden spoons began as a cabinet maker-

“It all started after an argument with Michelle. I can’t even remember what about. She said …you’re a cussing woodworker and I don’t even have a decent wooden spoon in the house! We both huffed off,  a few hours later I came back with an “apology spoon” I’d carved for her. She loved it and said I should make some more,  as other people would love them too. I did and slowly the spoon bug took hold.”

Green wood carving became their joint obsession and David and Michelle run a successful micro art business; becoming the first Australians to be awarded the Wille Sunqvist & Bill Coperthwaite Slojd Fellowship, in 2025.

Visit their sun-filled studio to share their passion—but be warned: spoon carving is addictive!