Exploring The Fringes A Guide to Beachcombing on the Gulf IslandsHello, and welcome to my Southern Gulf Island beachcombing resource page. The purpose of this page is to inform anyone who might be interested in the multi-faceted pastime of beachcombing--make that serious beachcombing. For the time being, I will be concentraing on the area surrounding Gabriola Island, but in time hope to expand my reign.This page was designed as a project for a Media Studies class at Malaspina University-College in which we were asked to identify a topic or fad that was on the fringes of culture, and if possible somehow link it to technology. Now you may ask: What does beachcombing have to do with technology? Not much, I agree. However, I have found that beachcombing is a lot like surfing in cyberspace. First of all, you never know what you're going to find once you get out there; and secondly you will always come back with a prize. See In Search of Yew detailing one of my own personal ventures, as well as some photoshop rustic art! (I'm still on the learning curve!) My intent with this artwork is to show how technology can enhance even the beachcomber's creativity.
Now, everything you need to know about beachcombing
Anyone who is truly serious about beachcombing knows that you can't go to the beach empty-handed. And even if you do, you are going to need some tools to work the wood when you bring it home. I have created a short list of things that will help you to be succesful when combing. For tools of a more detailed nature, I have provided a link to one of the best woodworking stores in B.C.: Lee Valley Tools. - Gum boots
- Appropriate attire (weather dependant)
- Pocket knife
- Hand saw (personally I use a small chainsaw)
- Boat (not entirely necessary, but nice to have
- Rope
- Map
- Food/Water
- Positive Attitude!
Something you will want to do if you're looking to become a serious comber, is learn your woods. The best way is through hands-on techniques. When you are on the beach, try to identify the logs first by look. Then cut into the log for another view--less weathered wood. Then put your olfactory senses to work. You would be amazed at how different each species of tree smells. Below I have provided links to three of what I consider to be the most valuable woods on our local beaches.
Two things that you will want to be sure to check before heading out for the day are the weather and the tides (especially if you are boating). You check the weather for obvious safety reasons. The tide, however, is just as important if you are planning to bring a decent load back--it is nice to have the tide in your favour.
Something that can be very helpful (especially if you are not familiar with the area) is a map. The mapbelow is not the best, but should give you a good idea of how the southern Gulf Islands are situated in comparison to Vancouver Island and the mainland.
Now the $64,000 question: What the hell do you do with all that stuff when you get it home? Well, the answer is actually --fill your garage with it. Collect more. Forget about pieces. Then months later, when they have had time to dry, and you have had time to think on them for awhile--get to work. The word "rustic" has almost become as popular as its near opposite "cyber". Rustic furniture is on a serious upswing; however, don't be afraid to let your prized pieces become yard ornaments for a few years. Below is a creation that I visualized when I was on the beach staring at a garry oak root ball. With the help of Photoshop I have been able to create my vision: a "rustic-cyber" culmination.The Mermaid What you decide to do with your newfound treasures is dictated mostly by the wood itself. Below is a link to rustic furniture maker Michael Miller's homepage. Sometimes the best inspiration comes from seeing what is possible. Also I have included the e-mail address to Kennedy Mobile Milling (just in case you, or anyone you know, on or around Gabriola is in need of sawing services). And like the patriotic Gabriolan I am, I have provided a link to a local current events home page. All who wander are not lost.Contact me for any reason--Simon Reeves aka The Wood Hound |