James (Bud) Smith

A native of Cherokee and a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Bud Smith studied wood carving under the well-known artist Amanda Crowe.  Since 1993, Bud has taught contemporary and traditional wood carving techniques in grades 9-12. 

He has also been an instructor at Oakland City University and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.  Bud believes sculpture is by nature a tactile experience.  Wood sculpture is the most hands-on of any three dimensional medium.  He works, sees and feels with his hands.  Bud really had no other choice than to become a carver, and when you couple that innate spirit with individual experiences, you develop a distinctive style.