Howard Julien

Howard Julien creates steam-bent wood sculptures and functional art inspired by the elegance of natural forms. Working primarily with oak and walnut, he shapes thin strips of wood through a specialized steam-bending and laminating process he developed through years of experimentation and refinement.

His work ranges from free-standing sculptures of herons, orcas, ducks, and eagles to lamps, furniture, and wall-mounted pieces that blur the line between sculpture and design. Characterized by flowing lines, balance, and simplicity, each piece highlights the natural variation found within the wood itself. Differences in grain, coloration, and flexibility ensure that no two works are exactly alike, even when created from the same form.

After retiring from a career as a computer server engineer in 2015, Howard turned his attention fully toward creating art. Though he had worked with wood for many years, his interest in steam-bent sculpture began after encountering bent-wood artwork in a gallery in eastern Canada. Inspired by its elegance and craftsmanship, he began developing his own techniques through trial and error, ultimately creating the distinctive process used in his work today.

Howard’s sculptures reflect both precision and organic movement, combining technical problem-solving with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and character of wood.