Ian Gelbrich is an artist and designer whose work is deeply influenced by a lifelong connection to place, craft, and material. Growing up in Alaska, he developed an early appreciation for the natural world—its textures, rhythms, and quiet complexity—as well as a deep admiration for the carvings of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. These early influences inspired a desire to work with wood. His work reflects a balance between precision and intuition, shaped by both professional design experience and a hands-on engagement with wood as a living material. Ian approaches carving as a process of discovery, where each piece reveals its own character through careful attention and respect for the medium. He is especially grateful for the opportunity to learn from Monica Setziol-Philips, whose guidance and generosity have been instrumental in deepening his understanding of traditional carving techniques and artistic expression. This mentorship has helped refine his craft while reinforcing a commitment to patience, discipline, and continual growth. Through his work, Ian seeks to create pieces that honor both material and tradition, while offering a contemporary interpretation shaped by his own experiences and perspective.