How long have you been an artist or when did you start? Was there a single incident or moment when you realized this was your passion and if so, tell us about it.

I built my first piece of furniture when I was 10, but it wasn’t until 2013 that I opened my woodworking business. There isn’t one single moment that made me realize woodworking was my passion, but as I was building all of the furniture for my first apartment, I realized building and creating were something I’d always wanted to do. 

Illinois has factored into your work in the past. What does being able to live and work in Illinois mean to you?

One thing about building furniture in Illinois is that there is a lot of great hardwood to choose from. Many woodworkers choose to import exotic wood, but Illinois has so many beautiful options that I like to use what’s in my own backyard (not literally). I’ve been able to work with several great local woodcutters to supply the resources I use for my pieces. 

What opportunities does Illinois present to local artists?

The maker’s movement has really taken off in the past few years it seems, and there are lots of great artisan markets that give artists a chance to get their work out there. It seems people in Illinois have really bought into the concept of buying local and supporting the economy right here at home. 

What do you like about Illinois?

Illinois has always been home to me. I grew up on a pig farm in rural Illinois, spent my undergrad years at the University of Illinois, and am now enjoying life in the capital. No matter where I’ve gone, I’ve always felt at home. 

What is your favorite medium to work in? 

I mostly build with hard wood. I’d have to say walnut is my favorite species—I love the color and grain. I try to avoid painting or staining wood when I can, because to me, clear finished natural wood is so beautiful on its own. And, I love collaborating with other artists to incorporate steel into some of my bigger pieces. 

Where can people view or purchase your work?

People can check out my work on Prattwoodworks.com. There are smaller, ready-made items like cutting boards and butcher blocks available for immediate purchase, and my custom furniture portfolio is also available. If they’re coming through Springfield, they can feel free to stop by the shop located at 1315 Ottis St. Springfield, IL, 62703.

What artist inspires you and why?

I love the ability to follow the woodworking community through social platforms like Instagram. It’s amazing to see the different designs people come up with. Greg Klassen is one of my favorites. I love the look of his live slabs and how he combines wood, steel, and glass. 

The 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang South Korea start today and a dozen athletes from Illinois will be competing.

Representing Illinois are:

Abraham Lincoln was born on Feb. 12, 1809 in a one-room log cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky. He came to be the 16^th president of the United States and is regarded for his preservation of the Union during the Civil War and the emancipation of slaves.

Before becoming president, Lincoln worked to support his family, which limited his ability to go to school. After settling in New Salem, Illinois, Lincoln worked as both a shopkeeper and postmaster while teaching himself law. He passed the bar examination in 1836 and moved to Springfield to begin his career as a lawyer and later a politician.

Maddie Kogelis, a Washington Community High School student won first place in a national video contest spreading awareness about the dangers of radon.

The contest is sponsored each year by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the American Lung Association in Illinois.

Kogelis, a Washington, Illinois resident, finished first in the state contest and her 60-second video was then entered into the national contest, where she took home the prize. Her video shows creativity and demonstrates the importance of testing your home for radioactive gases like radon that are known to cause lung cancer.

Planning family outings during the unpredictable winter weather can be daunting, but below are a variety of different events happening that can make planning easier.

Admission to the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry will be free until Feb. 27. With a variety of educational and interactive exhibits and events geared toward children and adults, it’s a great time to experience one of the largest science museums in the world with the entire family.

In the Lisel area, the Morton Arboretum’s Enchanted Railroad brings life to 10 miniature model trains from around the world that wind through captivating scenery. The two-story display can be enjoyed by children of all ages.