Kwaiken

Gallardo, Joshua

Ever since I was a young boy I have had the innate desire to make things. Things of wood, things of metal, things glued, and bent, and wrapped in tape and rubber and all kinds of things. Growing up in a family of four boys (and my sister), my brothers and I were constantly entertaining ourselves with any and everything. Whether it was bows and arrows made from sticks in my grandpa’s backyard, or wooden swords made from a fallen branch, we always had something to play with. And always, made by me. For whatever reason I truly believe God has given me the desire to use my hands, to be a craftsman. I’ve always loved the outdoors. Whether it was hiking, fishing, camping, or a combination of all three, my fondest memories remain outside. It was during these times where I would FINALLY be able to strap on the over-sized, poorly made, swap-meet bought hunting knife and use it for every possible circumstance. These were my adventures and the knife my companion. Even to this day, whether I am opening a box or gutting a fish my knives remain with me to share in the adventure of life (though the knives I carry now are a bit better). I believe this is partially why I love being a knifemaker. To be able to create tools for use each and every day brings me great joy, but to be able to share it with others is all the better. I am incredibly grateful for those that support me, whether it be through kind words, prayer, or purchases I cannot say thank you enough.