I just found the work of Lou Rota in an old inspiration book, I really like the way she creates new pieces from unloved old crockery and furniture, her finished works are very appealing to the child in me.
Ricky Swallow is another artist whose work I saw at Sydney Art Gallery. I really like his beautifully detailed sculptures, the top image was on display in the gallery and apart from the bucket is all carved singularly from one piece of wood.
Another artist whose work really impressed me was the subtle sculptural work of Japanese artist Yoshihiro Suda. The rose shown is sculpted out of wood.
I found the work of Jane Ormes through getting a card to send to my good friend in Canada. She is a printmaker and artist, I love her whimsical pieces and also her description of her recreation time 'She spends any spare time daydreaming about Daniel Craig and ginger flapjack (although not together obviously!)'. Her blog is also worth a peruse here.