About Ugly Burlz

Ugly Burlz (with a ‘z’) generally refers to my small business in Brisbane, Australia, that makes beautiful gifts out of ‘imperfect’ or otherwise ‘ugly’ bits of timber. But because I use the phrase a lot, perhaps its useful to offer a distinction:

1. UglyBurlz (.com.au) is a small business located in Brisbane, Australia, which opened its doors in 2021. (ABN: 69884681833)

2. Ugly burls also happen to be my favourite canvas to work with. To me, starting with an “old ugly burl” and transforming it into something others see as stunningly beautiful, is the perfect metaphor. You see, the beauty was always there, just millimeters under the surface. All I did was make tiny scratches – polishing it until it shines. (I believe its the same with many things we encounter in life – the beauty is there if we dare to look for it.) … And if I can’t get my hands on burl wood, I also enjoy transforming other people’s offcuts which have been disposed of for their “imperfections”, turning them into something unexpectedly beautiful.

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And finally, of course…

3. Ugly Burlz is also a name I’ve given to myself.

“Hi!”

Yes, I’m Iain Burley. And I’ve got this big bushy beard, I’m “overweight”, my skin is often covered in ugly psoriasis, and I sometimes struggle with depression and c-PTSD. So sure, sometimes I think of myself as ugly. But I’ve discovered I can still contribute to the world in beautiful ways, even when I’m at my ‘ugliest’ lowest point.

And that’s what this is all about really…

…Showing my 2 amazing sons what’s possible. And showing anyone who struggles with mental or physical health that there are ways we can all still make a beautiful contribution in this world. For me, the biggest thrill comes from knowing my works (and especially the beautiful symbols of love) are gradually making their way into people’s homes across Australia (and also already in the UK and USA!). It always brings a smile to my face when I think about the ongoing positive ripples that may create.

…And I hope I can one day be an inspiration to others.

In the meantime, thank you for taking the time to visit and all the very best

Iain Burley