Dennis began carving in 1983 while stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. By studying the work of 19th and 20th century carvers Dennis developed an appreciation for the the 'masters' ability to capture the essence of a species and the likeliness of a pose with simplicity, grace, and refinement of form. These qualities, plus the look that accrues to a decoy after years of handling and use, are what he attempts to achieve in his own work.Dennis uses the traditional materials of white cedar and oil paint. The only power tool used is a band saw to rough out the form from a selection of plank; the carving is done with knives and rasps. Dennis' intention for his work is to show a strong traditional influence fused with contemporary line and form.Dennis' work has been on display at the North Carolina Museum of History and has been the subject of several article in 'Hunting and Fishing Collectibles Magazine'. He is one of the sixty master cavers heralded in Loy Harrell's book 'Decoys-Sixty Living and Outstanding North American Carvers'. For the past 15 years his carvings have been showcased and sold from the collection of the Audubon Gallery in Charleston, SC.