I have always been interested in art and got a degree in Art Education at Eastern Kentucky University. I have worked as an Illustrator for the U.S. Army since 1976. Since that time I have pursued other Freelance jobs. I have been involved in ceramic sculpture, Limited Edition Prints, and various Illustration work.

I have illustrated for Books, Magazines, Calendars, Record Labels, as well as doing work for Fine Art prints. It was through the circulation of the Prints that I was introduced to Scrimshaw. A Custom Knife Maker named Gene Baskett liked my paintings and contacted me with the idea of Scrimshaw work on his knives. That was in 1987 and I have been primarily involved in this medium since that time. It seems I found my niche in the art world in Scrimshaw and gained a very good friend in Gene. While doing the freelance illustration work, I wanted to separate it from my Fine Art painting and did so by signing my Illustration work with 'Garbo' (a nickname I picked up in college) rather than my signature. When I started scratching ivory I used that same pen name as my signature.

One of the finest artists and finest people in Scrimshaw is Rick Fields. Rick has encouraged me and given valuable advice throughout my endeavors. He is truly unique in the field of Scrimshaw and is just a great guy.

While most of the work I have done has been for either Custom Knife Makers or Collectors of Custom Knives, I have always done display pieces and offered them for sale. These pieces allow for generally larger work which I enjoy, although I have also done numerous Miniature Custom Knives.

In all that I do, I strive to do the best I can for my customers. But more, I endeavor to do all I do for the Glory of the Lord. Colossians 3:23 says "Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord". I try to live by that. I hope that my "RE-creations" will in some small way give recognition of the One true Creator and to His Truth - Jesus.

Rick Fields has gone to be with the Lord since I first posted this website. He will be greatly missed by many friends and admirers.

Gary Williams
a.k.a. Garbo