about
Shangri-La Stoneworks
I started working with stone well over 15 years ago, and still, each and every project is a learning experience. I think thats what really keeps me interested in the craft--the way that every day brings a new set of problems to solve, and new opportunities to improve my techniques. It's never the same wall twice. The stones are lying there on the ground, full of potential, waiting their turn to be given a place in the greater composition. My job is to see that potential, and actualize it. The rock becomes the stone once I put my time and energy into it, no longer a lump to be pushed aside, but an invaluable link in the chain. I count myself lucky to be among those who truly love their work, and most days, there's nothing I'd rather be doing than building with stone--well, some days I'd rather be sailing...
I travelled and lived abroad through much of my youth-- Europe, Africa, the Americas, and finally into the South Pacific islands and Asia on our sailboat, the s/v Shangri-La, a 48' ketch that took us over half way round the globe. It's been the traveling that has really captured my imagination for stone. Seeing stonework and stone applications from so many different countries, cultures, styles and uses has been my inspiration. Bringing those experiences home to the rocky coast of Maine has given me the opportunity to build my business in a place I love, and to grow as a part of the community here in mid-coast Maine.
When you hire Shangri-La Stoneworks you are getting the attention of professional craftsmen who are passionate about their trade and who are committed to delivering quality stonework with a keen eye for design and attention to detail. We look forward to hearing from you.
Jared Grant is a Certified Professional Dry Stone Waller through the DSWA (Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain), and is a Certified Instructor in dry stone building techniques, also through the DSWA and The Stone Trust. He is also a member of the Maine Stoneworkers Guild.