Furniture maker Rick Cook has intrigued visitors to the Cook Gallery in Port Orford for more than 30 years. Sleek contours that outline alluring negative space make Cook's hand crafted wood furniture functional and artful.

Relaxing in the gallery, Cook watches the effect of daylight and shadow, notes the way his pieces enhance the rooms in which they're placed. "Sometimes I like the shadow," he said. "The shape that's cast on the wall or the floor can magnify the shape or design." Cook has developed conscious restraint in his design, following inspiration from early 20th century Arts and Crafts construction, Mission style Stickley furniture, and fine artists such as Henry Moore. Floating tabletops and graceful cabinet bases lend his work a light look and feel.

In a town known for its art galleries, Cook Gallery is the longest in operation. Cook hung his shingle and converted his house to a studio gallery in the 1980s. He invites a few Oregon artists to show their work. Visitors will find evidence of Cook's many interests. There's a banjo in the corner. An old Lionel model train is on display next to a collection of antique dolls and glassware, inherited from his mother. The space is intimate. If Cook isn't building a new piece, he may be at his computer researching local history, or seated near the wood stove, ready for conversation. Cook's Gallery, Port Orford (541) 332-0045