Lightwell Cottage

Lightwell Cottage is a small father-daughter business that offers a variety of handmade gifts. Our home-based business is located in the beautiful Northern California Foothills in Auburn, where we live on a quiet acre with over 100 oak trees and lots of beautiful wildlife. We are both self-taught, and we started this business from a simple love of creativity and a desire to share our gifts with others. In today’s world of impressive AI technology, computerized machinery, and mass production, we hope to inspire others to keep the art of handcrafting alive. Whether you purchase an item from us or simply become inspired to create with your own hands, our main hope is to help spread a deep appreciation for the thoughtful art of handcrafting. To learn more about us, we invite you to explore our demonstration videos, photo galleries, and more over at www.lightwellcottage.com.

Artist Statement by Jeff Bagwell:

Hi. I'm Jeff. I started woodworking as a hobby in 1995. After teaching in the Auburn Union School District for over 20 years, I’m now retired and able to dedicate more time to this favorite craft of mine. Overtime, I learned to challenge myself by moving beyond patterns and creating my own original pieces. I learned that I could use my love of drawing and imagination to work with the natural shape and beauty of raw pieces of wood. The majority of my material comes from trees that have naturally fallen during storms. I’ve been an Auburn, California resident for over forty years now, and I enjoy helping local residents clear fallen trees that I can then use for woodworking. Occasionally, I use pieces of salvaged wood or pieces that have been gifted. Because I don’t purchase perfectly milled boards, I’m able to create one of a kind pieces with unique shapes. My favorite form of woodwork is power-carving because it allows me to bring my visions to life. Original wood art is my passion, but I also enjoy making functional pieces for everyday use such as wooden plates and bowls. Each piece highlights what I see in nature, and my hope is to share this beauty through my creations.

Artist Statement by Melissa Lightwell:

Hello. My name is Melissa/Mel. I have been drawing and crafting since I was a child and even though I never received a formal art education, I have continuously made efforts to improve my skills independently. Nature has been and always will be my greatest teacher. I was raised in and still reside in Northern California, and I have always drawn inspiration from the natural shapes and colors within my surroundings. My father is also an artist. Watching his own creative process and ability to self-teach is what led me into the exciting world of autodidacts. As a child, I watched PBS art shows and checked out drawing videos and tutorial books from our local library. As an adult, I still challenge myself to learn new techniques through various resources. Independent learning has definitely been a slow and sometimes frustrating process but the results continue to be extremely rewarding. Psychology is also an interest of mine. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and some of my creations are inspired by contemplations on human behavior and cultural influences. I’m also a strong believer in art therapy, for I myself have found creativity to be extremely healing. No matter what I create through drawing, painting, sewing, woodworking, or jewelry making, my intention is to spread uplifting energy and to inspire others to explore their own thoughts, feelings, and creativity.