The Beginning

The formation of Hawk Merlin Studios originated in the mind of the founder, David Bunker. David observed the traits, tendencies, characteristics, and personalities of Hawk and Merlin during a three year period of pheasant hunting trips in the 1990's to the "Willow Creek" area near Heppner, Oregon with their owner, Bruce Crowell.

There was something special about Hawk and Merlin that stuck with David for two decades. When thinking of Hawk and Merlin over those many years, there was one word that became the identity of the memories: COLLABORATION. The foundation and soul of HMS is grounded in the spirit and intent of collaboration. The HMS Studio/Gallery is a platform and environment for collaboration to exist, occur, and thrive. As David was contemplating an endeavor to become a platform for his creative energies, the name Hawk Merlin Studios became the perfect choice.

The progression from the hunting trips during 1993-1995 to the Grand Opening of Hawk Merlin Studios in Spring 2016 has been an amazing journey. For two decades David always knew he wanted to tell the story of Hawk and Merlin someday. But, he had no idea that it would lead to opening a Gallery/Studio opening in Stevenson, WA ,with an immediate portfolio of 22 active stories/projects to undertake. See a preview of the 22 active projects on the Writer's Den page.

Although the exact future of HMS is unknown, one thing will hold true throughout the journey/adventure. All activities, partnerships, and intentions will always be grounded in a spirit of COLLABORATION, in honor of the memories of Hawk and Merlin.

During the logo design process, David wanted to give the dogs a legendary feel, like president's heads on the head of a coin. As you will see in the logo, the dogs are posed intentionally with Hawk facing forward (focused on the details), with Merlin looking off to the distance (thinking of the possibilities).

(A special thanks to Greta Gohn of Thrive Designs for collaborating to create such a beautiful logo design)