Yellowknife (Oct 22/03) - When woodworker Rick Muyres creates something, people notice.

And while most of his wood creations are in Norman Wells, Yellowknife can now claim one for its own.

The large driftwood bench, made from tree roots and other Northern wood salvages from the Mackenzie River, now sits in the corner of the parking lot owned by Chris Bromley across from RCMP headquarters.

While Yellowknifer could not reach Muyres for comment, those who know him are very impressed with his ability.

"I think he is exceedingly creative," said his sister Leslie.

"This is his livelihood, but then he's always been a builder. When he was small, he was a fort builder."

Although born in Yellowknife, he has lived in Norman Wells for many years.

He is the son of the late Smitty and Lanky Muyres, both long-time city residents.

In Norman Wells, Muyres has built four bridges, benches, a log chalet and a torii (a Japanese-style gateway into a cemetery).

Walt Humphries, a member of the Northwest Territories Mine Heritage Society, called Muyres a "master craftsman."

"He goes a step beyond with his work. He transcends woodwork into art."

Seeing such a creation in a central location in the city is good for everyone, he said.

"I think it's fantastic. That's what gives the town colour and flavour," Humphries said.

Chris Bromley of Bromley & Sons said he is happy to have the bench near his parking lot.

"He grew up close by," Bromley said of the Muyres family home on 51st Street, where his sister Leslie still lives.

"I'm one of his fans.

"His work is unconventional but artistic. Yellowknife should have more of his work," Bromley said.