Shou Sugi Ban Cedar & Horizontal Glass Vase

salvaged cedar and glass, copper collar

Decorative vase crafted from Shou Sugi Ban Cedar, cut through the middle with a piece of salvaged glass. 

Mike Fikowski is a sculptor and creator based on a small island in the Pacific Northwest. Under the name Hart Lake Studio, Mike brings a unique vision to life—combining softness and spirited colour with the strength and endurance of hard materials like concrete and wood. 

Originally from the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Mike found inspiration in the striking contrasts between nature’s rough textures and delicate details. This influence is evident in his playful sculptures, which mimic the soft, inviting qualities but are made from hard, lasting materials. The lifelike cones, with their vibrant hues and smooth forms, invite both admiration and a sense of lighthearted joy.

Sustainability plays a key role in Mike’s practice, with many of his lathed works crafted from ethically salvaged and recycled materials. These pieces often incorporate unexpected glass accents, adding a unique contrast of fragility and clarity to the otherwise tactile, organic forms. This eco-conscious approach is woven into every aspect of his art, imbuing each creation with both depth and meaning while enhancing the playful, animated aesthetics that define his work. Whether he’s capturing the levity of a freshly scooped ice cream cone or crafting other inventive sculptures, Mike continues to explore the intersection of fun, craftsmanship, and nature through his work at Hart Lake Studio.