Grit Laskin is an artist, pure and simple, his work could stand alone and would still be impressive. His canvas just happens to be guitars.
I like a little bling, but generally, (as always) elegance is understated contrast. It's the subtle touch of a few well placed points of interest that make for a classy look. A "pimped up axe" may be impressive - and I can appreciate it for that - but if everything is bling, there is no contrast.
Even with figured woods, a dab'll do ya. I'd much rather have this:
Than this:
