Michael Uding grew up in and has lived most of his life in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri. He worked in the building trade as a stone and brick mason. Mike describes himself as a life long learner with a deep appreciation for art and beauty. His hobbies include general aviation, antique cars, scuba, and wood turning. He has ben enthusiastic about wood turning for about 20 years. His father and uncle had a lathe and enjoyed making wooden bowls and practical pieces. Mike expanded their skill set and has been creative with his segmented wood turning. He likes to work with all types of hard woods from all over the world and also incorporates epoxy in his work. Segmented pieces and basket illusion are his current interest.