About Us

 

Bob Cerkleski is a trained marine biologist with a lifelong passion for art and antiques. While serving as the curator of the Key West Aquarium, Bob found a creative outlet that combined his love of marine life with his artistic talent—turning old bottles into intricate glass sculptures inspired by the sea creatures he worked with every day.

Now retired, Bob continues to honor his connection to the ocean by crafting unique pieces from reclaimed materials—everything from old buoys, glass bottles, lobster traps, you name it, and he has done it! His work includes lobster and stone crab trap frames, which are the focus of this online collection. For those seeking his more intricate glass sculptures and one-of-a-kind creations, a visit to his shop at 518 Fleming Street in Key West is a must.

Whether online or in person, every piece Bob creates reflects his deep appreciation for the ocean and its wonders. Explore his work and bring a piece of the sea’s magic into your home.

 

PROCESS OF LOBSTER TRAP FRAME MAKING

Each lobster or stone crab trap frame begins its journey with Bob Cerkleski’s keen eye for foraging. He scours local junkyards and coastal areas to find old, discarded traps that hold potential for a second life. These traps, often retired due to damage or replacement of lobster slats, are carefully selected and transported back to his workshop, where their transformation begins.

The process starts with a thorough cleaning. Each trap is washed with fresh water to expose and remove barnacles, salt deposits, and remnants of marine life that have accumulated from their time in the ocean. This step is crucial to eliminate any corrosive elements that could compromise the frame's integrity.

 

 

Once cleaned, the traps are laid out to season under the Key West sun. This natural drying process not only restores their texture but also helps to highlight the weathered character of the wood. The sun’s heat ensures that the material is fully cured, a step that can take several days, depending on the humidity and condition of the wood.

 

After seasoning, Bob applies a protective clear coat to the traps. This finish serves a dual purpose: preserving the wood’s unique character and adding durability, ensuring the frames stand up to years of use while maintaining their rustic charm.

Only after these meticulous steps are complete does each trap frame earn its place in Bob’s creations, embodying a blend of sustainability, craftsmanship, and the vibrant history of the Florida Keys.