A ferry away from Seattle, Jim Chobot walks the beaches of Vashon Island, combing for driftwood and inspiration for his next creation.

Chobot is a longtime Pike Place Market artist, well-known for his one-of-a-kind wood pieces from rocking chairs to cutting boards to “fire starters.”

Every day he goes down to the beach, searching for things that have washed up on the island shores. According to Chobot, "When you go looking at the beach, it's a store that's open every day but with different things." He looks for quality driftwood with fun shapes, patterns and textures—all of which add to the character of each art piece.

With more than 40 years of experience at the Market, Chobot has built an impressive customer base, with some becoming collectors of his work) and continues to evolve in his artistic expression to this day. You can find Chobot's work at the Neptune Furniture table in Pike Place Crafts Market seven days a week, and even meet Jim himself most Sundays. Come say hello, pick up some great gifts for Father’s Day, and ask him about his “Pirate Camp,” too!