It is often the case that we take for granted the things that surround us and we fail to appreciate the thought and skill required to create a functional and durable object. Through their “Maker Films” Series, Pixillion decided to shed a spotlight on extraordinary craftspeople who have spent a considerable amount of time honing their skills and who create some pretty special things for a living.

From Timber To Tide from Pixillion on Vimeo.

Our favorite short film was obviously bound to be one with a nautical theme and we couldn’t help but be inspired by Ben Harris’ passion and dedication to his craft. Mr. Harris is a wooden boat builder working in Cornwall, UK and has been interested in wood since he can remember. So much so, that the first word that he said was “log”. It is also interesting to note that his great grandfather was a forester in Denmark, his great uncle ran a saw mill, and both his grandfathers were in the navy.  Therefore, it seems that the passion for trees, woodwork, and boat making runs through his veins.  Mr. Harris went on work in a cabinet-making workshop where he learned valuable lessons and skills that are still applicable in his boat making work.

It is with a heartfelt sense of dedication that Mr. Harris narrates the cyclical process of seeing a beautiful tree being transformed into an equally beautiful boat, particularly when the boat is launched into the sea. We are also introduced to Mr. Harris’ personal boat, Alva which he painstakingly built himself and incorporates key characteristics of the traditional Falmouth Quay Punt and the comfort of a yacht that can sail further away.

The saying goes, “choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life” and this gentleman seems to have nailed it to a T.