Timothy Herlocker discovered woodcarving as a child, recreating everyday objects in wood with little more than a simple sketch and an intuitive understanding of form. While drawing never came easily, carving offered another path, allowing him to reveal an object by gradually removing wood until it emerged fully in the round.

After setting carving aside for many years, Herlocker rediscovered the practice while living and working in New York City. What began as a creative diversion soon became a lasting pursuit, deepening his appreciation for art and inspiring him to become a collector himself. His first carving sale came through Nantucket Looms, and he used the commission to purchase a painting by a Nantucket artist. More than two decades later, he continues the tradition of placing work with the Looms each year.

Working primarily in wood, Herlocker is drawn to the material's unique combination of visual beauty and tactile appeal. His carvings are characterized by graceful curves, smooth surfaces, and an appreciation for the natural grain of the wood, which often enhances the rhythm and movement of each piece. Inspired by Nantucket's maritime heritage, his work frequently explores nautical forms and themes, reflecting the enduring connection between the island and the sea.