Ode to a DeWALT Drill

5"x5" oil on door skin panel. • This drill and I have seen a lot of action together, so it seemed only fitting that it get an honorary portrait. It has pretty much been retired due to one of its batteries failing and the appearance of a red replacement from Milwaukee with much lighter and powerful batteries. It was a faithful tool that fit well in my hand and thus, deserves my respect. You see, I am the kind of guy who doesn't see being covered head-to-toe in saw dust as being dirty. Rather, I see it as being in my element and comfortable (but not good at the kitchen table—ever eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich laced with red oak dust?—just nasty). Whilst I admit that certain exotic woods and redwood may trigger nasal distress and the neighbors don't always appreciate the noise accompanying my existence, working with wood is a combination of who I was raised to be and who I naturally am. Don't get me wrong, I'm no fine cabinet maker, I only claim to have risen to the rank of "Wood Butcher." As to the noise, there is a simple trade off with the neighbors: They don't complain (to my face) and I don't exterminate their cats for leaving little surprises around our yard and catching birds—awesomely in midair—at our birdbath. Boy, did this commentary ever wander. Sorry. To sum it up: Great drill; Deserves portrait; Me Wood Butcher (grunt); Don't kill neighbors' cats.  •  Have a nice day.

Posted February 19, 2013
sold • private collection west hollywood, ca