Ray Reif was born in Marshall, MN and later achieved a Bachelor's degree in business from South Dakota State University. Ray has always enjoyed the arts, and found a passion wood carving with chainsaws. As a former chef and culinary artist, he finds inspiration taking a raw product and turning it into something attractive. Each and every tree has unique characteristics, grains, cracks, and natural stains that are used to fulfill design goals. Some pieces start with a concept, others develop as he carves. His ideas oftentimes come from the actual wood, so the content of his art stems from the material itself. His mediums of choice are chainsaws, grinders, sanders. What began as a hobby of self expression has grown to regional art shows, exhibits, and on-site carvings. Custom sculptures are available upon request. Ray is engaged to his fiance, Olivia, and they have beautiful twin boys (AJ, Leo) born in 2019. They now live near Sturgis, SD. Enjoy the site!