Wooden Sculpture that Shouldn't Be

[@SawyerDesign]

Thank you all so much for the thoughtful messages; it means the world. I know Axel and his family can feel the love as I do. Seriously honored to be able to tell a piece of Axel’s story ❤️ -Nick

[@ronweber4508]

Just want to silently stand beside you and your family, Alex and his family. 💔❤️‍🩹

[@xp7575]

Since sarcastic questions are encouraged by your rules I have to ask: did you realize you were making a vag1na before you started?

[@samspade4634]

I've never been a fan of abstract art, however while you were explaining as you were creating, I gained much more respect for this beautiful act of communication. Each part represented something treasured in the loss of a loved one and using the beautiful contrast in wood just creates a sort of peace about it. I hope the family can get a joyful feeling of peace from your art as well. Thanks for sharing. Beautiful.

[@greuju]

Difference between modern abstract art and absolute craftsmanship. Anyone can respect the amount of work out into something and skill required. A lot of modern art is literally slamming things together lol

[@alanr745]

Dude, there’s something about your candor, humor, skill, honesty, and humility that makes seeing these pieces. Thank you for being thoughtful and creative for the sake of that family. Praying for them!

[@JasonTheRed]

Wow! I thought I was done tearing up watching this channel…dammit right in the feels. I love that you were commissioned to make this piece; seems fitting given your own loss. Much love to Axel and his family and of course to you good sir

[@SawyerDesign]

Thanks Jason. Definitely all the feels on this one.

[@BonnyHorvath]

Nick @Sawyer Design. My condolences, spiritual strength, and emotional support in prayer go out to all the family members including 'Shadow'. The loss of my 25yr old Son gives me absolute insight into all of the voids your lives now hold. The only partial consolation is time. With every seconds passing our hurt dims and eventually becomes acceptance. This piece represents the tears of both sides of the divide. The core is the eternal love ❤️ suspended in space. Ever searching for the others embrace. The design and thought behind this piece is extraordinary. I totally identify and receive the soothing hug 🫂 this piece presents. I'm in awe of your work. Other creatives will also see what I see and more. Keep up the incredible work you do. Whatever you do, do not stop uploading content. Through this median you are received and understood. I'm grateful for being able to share and identify with you all. Regards Bon 👣

[@donnysarvis]

Axel, Shadow and Saber are not going to be forgotten and forever loved. That's in no small part due to the poetic expression of your art in woodworking, the knack you have for drawing your audience into the story, making them feel truly invested, and giving this unbelievable personal glimpse into that heart of yours. Thanks for sharing. My thoughts are with both families here. I hope this video gets more views, likes and subs you ever got off of a video, because it deserves it.

[@gbear056]

Magnificent in thoughts and build. Our prayers to you all.

[@willdelfosse6567]

this piece is truly gorgeous, sending my love and prayers out to the family.

[@SawyerDesign]

Thanks for the love, Will

[@bobbieashton8521]

For some reason I was instantly drawn to this project at the beginning. Now I know why, there was so much heart poured into it. I have no words to describe how beautiful that came out. By the end of your video, I’m in tears. My condolences to the family. 😢❤

[@gregmislick1117]

..... WOW..... just...WOW!!! To Axel - short lived, long remembered.... and my condolences to his family, and again to you. Merry Christmas Nick, I'd say that you nailed it all around. ....where'd the tissue box go!

[@SawyerDesign]

Thanks so much Greg. Merry Christmas!

[@bigsmoke-m8o]

I never thought I would find myself watching a woodworking video that would bring me to tears. This is an absolutely gorgeous piece, with so much meaning and love behind it.

[@feefifofum04]

As a parent this piece hit hard and the beauty of it is something that will live with me. Thank you for making something so incredibly well thought and touching for Axels family and sharing it with us.

[@davidgagnon1961]

I watched it all the way through. The meaning behind the piece is heartfelt and beautiful. It was confusing to watch the build, but it all came together in the end. Thanks for the build and the words of comfort.

[@mimivazquez7015]

Thank you for this beautiful piece. I was thinking that the two tear drops were the parents, and the center was their son. I guess that is what art is. Stunning.

[@SawyerDesign]

Of course! I think that’s perfect and they’re absolutely that too. The part of design that I love is how many ways it can be translated. Thank you.

[@dennisseemann571]

I know it's inconceivable to believe now, but there will come a time when memories of Axel bring a smile to your face before they bring a tear to your eyes. My wishes for you are that that time arrives in your life with great expediency so that you can once again enjoy the life Axel brought instead of grieving the hole he has left.

[@alancook1380]

My heart breaks for yours and Axel's family, but my spirit delights in the love and compassion that was yours to share.

[@GregsGarage]

2022 goal - Make 1 piece with the passion that you put into every detail... Respect and love.

[@brigetteanderson-atkins1128]

This is a beautiful tribute. I just made a memorial box for my brother-in-law who passed in August. It's amazing how an object can bring some peace and calm. My love to Axel and Shadow's family.

[@ennisventer8038]

Where does one start? Your personal loss and that of a young boy and the family that has to wrestle with this for years to come. My they find peace and meaning in this cruel world we all have to face from time to time.Your work is on another level! What a beautiful piece of art that is both immensely sad and comforting.Stay safe, and my we all be kind to each other and ourselves .

[@jessekruis6698]

Man, always making videos that make me cry. I know too many people who have lost children and have closely seen the pain of that in my in-laws family. Makes my heart ache for your family and Axels.

[@BadYossa]

I was mesmerized by this build and the sheer beauty of its organic shapes and then you explained the narrative. I found that extremely moving and my appreciation of you not only as a craftsman, but as person increased immeasurably. You're a good man Nick. The world needs more people like you mate.

[@kennethcarruth7852]

Such a Wonderful Gift for the Family , Truly from the ❤️……Thank you Nick for Sharing and may God Bless each and every one of them. You are a special individual. May the lord Bless your son also😇

[@RB-vr7mq]

Beautiful, tribute. Love and prayers for Axels family. The part of me that believes in something after this, sees Axel and Shadow playing together forever at peace. Literally had me in tears when you began explaining the purpose, even though I suspected that it was a memorial of sorts.

[@julioacevedo1035]

Awesome craftsmanship. It is a beautiful Tribute to Axel Jacob Reiswig and his dog shadow's memorial. As a father myself I could not imaging what his father and you are going through in the tragic loss of your sons respectively. My heart goes out to you all. The way you described his life in wood was a tear jerker for sure. Keep up the great work.

[@mederosstreetz1070]

You made me cry. What a thoughtful tribute to someone who obviously touched you deeply. My Axel’s family find solace.

[@creedsexton296]

Mr, Sawyer you have quickly become a very good inspiration for me..Although a woodworker for more than 40 years, not a confidant designer.. watching you for whatever reason has made me really explore design. I loved your piece For Axel. Please just keep it coming..

[@tangotango3406]

WOW!!! My heart goes out to the Axel and Shadow family, as well as yours. The passing of a loved one, for any reason; always a difficult process to endure. Words can’t say enough about the feelings and emotions I have about this piece. It’s absolutely stunning! I can wholeheartedly see the passion in your builds, especially this one and for little Saber, and that will forever resonate with me. Well done! Truly…

[@michaellitewski2352]

Storytelling at its highest level. Bravo.

[@jendavis9185]

I am an artist… who just lost my best friend, my dad. So I feel that void very deeply, I feel the eulogy, and I understand your art. And it is beautiful. RIP Axel (I hope I spelled that right) and Shadow. RIP Saber.

[@rgarlinyc]

Spectacular work.... breathtaking. You have created a remembrance that will survive the ages, and help recall the love and goodness of the too short life of Axel and his companion Shadow.💖

[@TheBlueMuzzy]

I'll say it again, your ability to capture deep thoughts in wood is so keen. Your heart is in the whole process, and the script is as elegant as the piece itself.

[@dragunov525]

This is beautiful, I love the meaning that was put behind the design, though the circumstances are extremely unfortunate to say the least. The time, effort, patience and skill behind everything you do is always top notch. I love that you flat out said "keep that shit to yourself" I don't think it could have been put any better. Thank you for sharing.

[@aolsen1984]

As a fellow woodworker, I aspire to greatness like this. You have a true gift of telling a story. Of showing the love you put into your art. It feels weird to say this… but congratulations on really displaying love and emotions. The family whom received this; they are so lucky, your talent and passion are shouting to the heavens. Bravo. My thoughts are with you, your family, and Axels family as well. Thank you for posting and narrating.

[@rodbettcher3293]

John this the first KZbin of yours I have watched. The beauty and simplicity of the piece caught my eye, your talent and delivery held it, the story brought a tear to it! Thank you for sharing your passion and your heart!

[@dudee5123]

Well done. To both you and Axel's (not sure if that's spelled correctly) family. If art is the application of aesthetics to craft then the highest expression of this is the elicitation of compassion, caring and even love. That sculpture is a testament to Axel and also to how much you love your own son. I hope peace finds Axel's family and also you.

[@billbris]

I have nothing more to add, other than to repeat my admiration for your heartfelt thoughts that went into this design and the skill with which you made it real. I know the family will be both excited and heartbroken when they see what you have created. As an added note, my hat goes off to you for being able to work through this when your own nerves and psyche are still raw. I wish for peace for the family and for you.

[@gregredwoodjr1298]

As a beginner woodworker I get excited every time I see a new video on this channel, it inspires me to take on the challenge of becoming an expert woodworker. With that said I’ll never be able to do what you do creatively and with the design aspect. It doesn’t discourage me at all or stop me from being precise and competent in my small shop I just marvel at your work cause it’s hard for Me to even call it woodworking. It’s truly art even down to how you capture it. It’s videos like this that remind me there stuff you’re good at in life and then there’s stuff you’re just a natural at. Sending prayers to this family for their loss.

[@NickGranville]

Man, I think I’ve said it before but I really dig how you consider the timing of things and how it lines up to the music. Great work on the edit. As for your wood working it’s Stella as always and what a lovely thing to do for this family at a tough time.

[@RayMrRobert]

Bless Axel, his family and you. Love you and your tenderness. Tenderness comes at a high price. May you have enough paid forward for all you have and all you gain in your existence.

[@musamor75]

This is a very beautiful project indeed, and when I heard you say about who it was devoted to (your son and his dig) my eyes were no longer dry. You have very lovely spiritual values. God bless and protect your family. Warmest greetings from France. (Please forgive my comments on your Walnut angled stool)

[@steveh3517]

I believe you answered your question. To understand the pain for a loss that cannot be replaced. This piece was extraordinaire. I really appreciate your passion.

[@aaronneubert2583]

Absolutely Beautiful! It seems that your videos are the only ones that I comment on whereas your content carries the weight necessary to deserve such praise.

[@wesleyflores8856]

I’ve recently come across your channel, on your moon box video, I don’t understand the heart ache but you have conveyed so much emotion in your work. Thank you for sharing these pieces with us. ❤️

[@barrydoxseyuk]

This video hit me. Yes I understand the gap you expressed. The empty space, yes I know it well. My desire has been to create a gothic window. The way you laminate solves my construction issues. Thank you.

[@X3WorkshopDesigns]

Wow! I'm speechless. Your designs never cease to amaze me. I love how everything comes into play with your designs and how thought out everything is. Thank you for sharing.

[@hazeltollz5695]

Beautiful, as always. And may his family feel closer to their boy when they see this. I don’t know how you can share that part of your life so freely but it’s clear that you’re committed to sharing that love and light with others. You should be so proud man :)

[@deanp1823]

What a great way to remember a loved one. Super work and design also. Well done!

[@robmedina211]

Was just going down a rabbit hole and realized this was one of 3 videos of yours I had not seen. Damn man. It’s 6am and this made me shed a tear. Amazing work

[@Bokum03]

I only just discovered your channel. I think the first video I watched was the tribute to your boy. From one father to another, my heart goes out to you and your family. My heart goes out to Axel and Shadow's family as well. As for this piece, I wasn't sure about it as you were creating it, but in the end, I found tears in my eyes. Your craftsmanship speaks volumes. Your ability to speak through your art is mind-blowing. Thank you for letting us all go on your artistic journeys with you.

[@bushman4124]

Wow that was amazing, the story and the art, it almost look likes smooth leather. As a veteran I lost many brothers through time. it is not easy any more, but your story touched my heart and draw a tear, and for a moment it brought back my brothers, Thank you for that!

[@EpikGamerYT]

Absolutely beautiful piece. Never easy losing a family member but a child, i hope i never have to go through this with any of my kids... I love how your designs are so complex but look simplistic and stunning at the same time. I wish you were based in Australia because i would certainly buy a piece from you. Keep up the amazing work and i look forward to seeing your KZbin channel explode soon. You deserve so many more subs with the quality content you put out!

[@petehafner1659]

My heart goes out to Axle's family and also you for your losses. The story behind the build and expression of life and loss is so very powerful. You are truly talented. Bless you for your dedication to the craft.

[@aymanhanafi]

I'm saying it with a simple words, I new that you likes simplicity.... 😉😉😉🤣🤣🤣 your channel and your work are one of my bset channels on KZbin..... all the best wishes from Egypt. Ayman Hanafi

[@jgemeinhardt3955]

Always marvelous to see what creativity joy can inspire but also sorrow and loss as the heart's depths of compassion and love reach beyond mere words. How wonderful that yours can be shared through your skills and talents. Congratulations on a truly unique and inspiring piece.

[@chrismalcolm8804]

Beautiful tribute, beautiful work, beautiful piece. Work can truly be cathartic...the ability to make a piece of work with meaning can truly be healing!

[@emmanueloyedeji9155]

How beautiful that your art transcends beyond just woodworking but also into the art of poetry. It's one thing to have the mastery one art, its another to have mastered two. Truly incredible!

[@hda1010]

Oh Nick that is an incredible beautiful work, those parents tears around their Kids, so much tears and respect for you and Axel family. Peace for all.

[@andrewgr16]

Stellar work. But more than that, meaningful. I remember the box you made for your son. You put all that empathy into this…a trait this world sorely lacks. You just made a grown man cry.

[@SivertBerge]

Absolutely beautiful piece. It conveys so much without being insistent - a difficult feat to achieve. Well done! PS. I found your channel not long ago, and had to look twice when I saw how (relatively few) subscribers you have; I instinctually assumed you would have ten times as many. Can'r wait to see it happen!

[@pawelgumula4476]

Your thought process is fascinating to follow.

[@casperboejensen3303]

All Love to the family of Axel, i cannot imagine the extreme pain they must be going to, but i hope this immensely beautiful Piece Will remind Them of their beautiful boy, and All the good times they had together

[@jacobtyman3726]

Beautifully done. You are a true artist. The video is edited perfectly and the woodworking is flawless. They picked the right person for this job.

[@Manixxx143]

Achingly beautiful...both the work, your caring soul, and Axel's, which moved you to make this stunning piece.

[@Tommyfatto]

I've found your channel only recently. This is just incredible. Your woodworking skills are a perfect match for this beautiful tribute. I am amazed and touched by the whole story.

[@mattelias721]

Amazing, Nick. I agree you're the only guy who could have executed this project.

[@michaellawlor2131]

Never cried during a woodworking video, this is beautiful. Thank you

[@andrewcodelka5158]

You have a truly unique way of having your pieces convey such deep emotion, whether its your narration, the way the video is shot, the piece itself (or more than likely a combination of all three). You are seriously one of the most original woodworking content creators out there right now. Keep it up my man - and my family and I will definitely have them in our thoughts and prayers.

[@Generaldisorderly]

Wow I am so impressed by your work, especially this piece of art, my dad is a retired cabinet maker and I can really appreciate the work you do !!

[@markvaleske9513]

Thank you! For respecting me as a skilled woodworker and not filling your video with a lot of stuff I already know. I learn so much from what is not said, just watching your process. More importantly, thank you for bringing an artistic and meaningful component to what you do and telling a story along the way. Making things is a way to reflect our Creator and to ease the pains of our sorrows. And, to impact the lives of others. Good bless you!

[@denisemorrison7616]

This piece is truly a gorgeous art piece, with a beautiful story. Sending my love and prayers out to the family and yours as well! Your story and this story both brought me to tears ... you truely are gifted not just with wood but your words mean so much. Have enjoyed ever one of your videos.

[@antonyhibberd8824]

I think you designed and executed the whole project beautifully. I hope it brought the family and yourself a little peace back into your lives.

[@aurielamitchell7880]

What a beautiful work of art to reflect love and memories to the family! Love and light to Axel's family❤

[@pauljordan3064]

Wow... Goosebumps...

[@CHRO_KO]

Amazing story, video, craftsmanship (like usual), piece of art… I really enjoy watching ALL your videos and this one was very meaningful. Axel is for sure extremely HAPPY about this art. God Bless his family, your business, you and your family. God Bless us all. Thanks and please keep up your great work

[@b3ardedbarbarian]

This piece is absolutely beautiful on so many levels. The thought and emotion that went into it is incredible.

[@DominusFeles]

I actually have a similar bending form in the shape of a water drop (ish) prepared for a project I planned for my baby son. He grew faster than I found time to finish the project and now, two years later, we’re expecting he’s sibling in February - maybe it’s time to pick up that wood chunk again… 🙂 Thanks for the reminder and great job on a though project!

[@joelw6215]

Absolutely stunning man. I don’t know how you do what you do. But you are a true craftsman. Why you don’t have 500k subscribers is beyond me. I look forward to all your videos. Keep them up. We are sending prayers to you and your friend. God bless

[@BLAQJAK3]

It's beautiful! I lost my Son 6yrs ago...I have yet to do a piece in honor of him. This is a wonderful inspiration, thank you!

[@StopandStare.]

I never thought I could feel emotional watching woodworking project, I have no words that can reflect my appreciation for beauty and meaning of this art.

[@stevescotland-judd6009]

A beautiful piece of art, true craftsmanship and memorial. We should remember those lost in beauty and you achieved this. You should be truly proud.

[@makermark67]

Amazing piece. RIP to Axel and his beloved dog, Shadow. Prayers, condolences and nothing but love to the family. ✌💔

[@dianahenderson]

Your artwork is stunning...your musing as you work are thought provoking...in this video, you have excelled in both sculpture and prose...I am both awed by your work/skill and heartbroken for a family losing someone so young. My condolences and good wishes to all.

[@benrudman3917]

I was intrigued by this build when you first started the teasers. Your design crushed it as you always do man. The angled backs of the teardrops that forms the intersecting planes is so cool. And the way you fastened the back of the floating center is wild. Something that won’t be seen, yet so thoughtfully engineered and crafted. The color contrast choices are perfection. When you explained the story it put this on a whole new level. Especially explaining shadow, and when you rotated the piece, it really did hide and blend in. What a special tribute to a life lost too soon, but surely never forgotten by those who knew him. You have crafted a wonderful piece that is sure to remind those who see it of axle’s life. Strong work man. -Ben

[@timseifert5556]

Beautiful, touching, well done. An artist with a heart of gold.

[@kenmaira]

That's a beyond beautiful piece of art. I hope that they've enjoyed it as much as I did watching you making this.

[@jmwoodcraft7842]

Tuned in for some top class woodworking and ooft you got me right in the feels, didn’t see that coming. Beautiful work, beautiful result and a beautiful sentiment & tribute to a young man’s life. You sir are an inspiration on top of running the best woodworking channel on KZbin, thanks ❤️

[@scrubscriber4911]

Much love Nick to you and your family as well as Axel’s. Great piece executed with skill, emotion and care. Happy Christmas.

[@mmagg1017]

Simply Beautiful from start to finish. My heart goes out to the Family and to your family as well for your loss. The video of you making for your son and this video as well had me in tears.

[@TheEveryMaker]

Not only is it a beautiful piece of art, but I love how you got there, I love the journey and thought behind each and every part. My heart hurts not only for their family but for yours. I honestly sat here in tears when you explained what this was all for, but I really broke down when I went back and read your story. You don't know me, but I've gotten to know you a little bit through your woodworking. No parent should ever have to go through that, I'm so sorry for your loss, for their loss too. Thank you for sharing, thank you for being vulnerable, and know that a lot of people are sending love your way.

[@lilliekelly3406]

Beautiful piece Sir. Thank you for sharing.

[@idrewt]

So beautiful, thoughtful and passionate. Keep up the great work, so glad to be following your channel and just enjoying this kind of stuff when so much else in the world can be distracting and disheartening. Wholesome content, even if it's about a loss and just celebrating it. Thanks for sharing your work and creativity.

[@genecarleton5810]

I love your work. I also love the way you get up, face each day, and just move forward in life. No one ever said life is easy. But we either live what life’s gives or die never having lived. Keep pursuing your passion Sawyer. You inspire us all!

[@crustycurmudgeon2182]

That was beautiful, both visually and existentially. Much love to Axel's family-- and yours, for your loss.

[@mischievouswoodworks2325]

This is truly the single most amazing piece I have ever seen. Not only for the craftsmanship but also the representation and respect for the cause you put into it. Hats off to you. I hope one day to have the opportunity to honor somebody through my work in this fashion. And may him and your son Rest In Piece

[@SawyerDesign]

It’s an honor to have the opportunity to do this for his family. Thanks so much and glad the design resonates with you

[@stevenemacks]

Your sign off made me weep. I'm devastated for your loss, but in awe of how you've repeatedly given your grief physical form, pieces of art astonishing to look at

[@dieselrugg]

Inspiring story and flawless build. Much respect to you Nick…I can only imagine the emotions tackling another project like this brings up…

[@SawyerDesign]

It’s been tough, but deeply rewarding. Can’t wait to give it to them.

[@carey-loujones7860]

That is truly beautiful. Both the piece you created and the sentiment behind it. Love & blessings to you and also Axel and his family for your losses 💔

[@johnandlou]

This is a highly respectful, inspiring piece, not only for the family you made it for, but for all of us. Thank you for sharing your gifting. You are a beautiful man. Well done.

[@adamfretwell8527]

Very beautiful design and story. As someone who used to volunteer at the OHSU with my pup, I fully understand and feel for the family. Again, well done!

[@SawyerDesign]

Thanks so much, Adam! My wife works at OHSU. That’s super cool you used bring support pups in.

[@adamfretwell8527]

@Sawyer Design cheers to her! I might have crossed paths with her at some point. On the off chance, tell her Norma Jean(my pup) says hello!

[@gardengatesopen]

Magnificent The love The creativity The sentiment The Magnificent is truly shining