Generation Gap
Artist discovers his own creativity through family Story by Angela Cutrer and Photos Contributed
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reg Andrews of Hampton knows all about creativity, sacrifice and love. His life is full of it. And Andrews pretty much wants to talk about everyone else in his family — anyone but himself. He said he’s not sure why anyone would want to talk to him about his artwork. After all, it’s his wife who has the true talent in the relationship, he’ll tell you. But Greg Andrews doesn’t give himself enough credit. Andrews was a Veterans Administration nurse for 12 years, but had to retire four years ago due to several back issues that put him in the hospital for numerous surgeries. His wife, Kristal, is a medical assistant. “She’s the creative one,” Andrews said. “She makes T-shirt quilts, she draws, she bakes, she even drew the logo for our band.” Yes, that’s right — Andrews’ is also in a band. But we’ll get to that later. Andrews began his artistic career when someone saw some social
Greg, Kristal and Chayse
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media posts that included woodworking. “They saw this guy making some floaty shelves — you know the kind I mean?” he said. “And someone told me about them. And then, I saw that this guy made American flags, and they were beautiful.” Someone told Andrews he ought to do that. So, he did. Most of his work involves concealment tables, tabletops and shelving that are opened only by way of a fingerprint lock. Most have an engraved American flag as the artwork. Andrews carves stars in them and then uses woodburning or traditional red, white and blue paint. Either way, the work is stunning in its patriotic focus and professional workmanship. The colors are deep and imperishable, the corners mitered and true. However, Andrews is not set in his ways. “Once, I did a Harley-Davidson emblem on one, and it was gorgeous,” he said, adding that he was open to whatever a customer might request. He has already built his wife
