HomeMeet the Blind Woodsman

Meet the Blind Woodsman

by Evan Miller

John Furniss lost his sight years ago as a result of a suicide attempt during a period of struggle and depression. But he’s convinced that crisis put him on the path to the life he was meant to lead.

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John Furniss and wife, Anni; photo by Randy Boverman

New Vision

A suicide attempt at 16 left John Furniss blind. Given a second chance—“a miracle,” he says—he’s found purpose in becoming an artisan woodworker, a dream encouraged by his artist wife, Anni, who helps him see what’s possible, in blocks of wood and in himself.

John's woodworking tools; photo by Randy Boverman

Trusted Tools

John’s chisels are like painter’s brushes, close friends he calls by name: Big Jake, Excalibur and Chuck.

John's hands working a lathe; photo by Randy Boverman

Guided

Working at his lathe is a “spiritual experience,” an act of hope. It’s a message John shares with youth in the Portland, Oregon, area where he lives.

John in his workshop; photo by Randy Boverman

In His Mind’s Eye

To challenge himself creatively, John glues strips of wood together in patterns he envisions. He is able to picture every last detail of the finished piece. “It’s like I have a computer-aided design program in my mind,” he says.

John's tools and a handmade sign; photo by Randy Boverman

With the Grain

John, also known as the Blind Woodsman, values giving “new life” to wood—just as he was given a new beginning. A friend created the picture, complete with the braille lettering on its frame.

John touches Anni's face; photograph by Randy Boverman

Love at First Touch

John met Anni while he was studying piano re-pair and mechanics, not believing he could make a living as an artist. “May I touch your face?” he asked. What they saw in each other was life-changing.

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