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Bowl Arts - Introduction | |
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Wood turning has fascinated me ever since I saw an exhibition presented by the American Association of Woodturners in 1996. The pieces on display were stunning works of art that pushed the creativity of the lathe far beyond the salad bowls and staircase spindles I had associated with woodturning. I followed up this fascination by taking lessons. After acquiring some basic skills I began spending more and more time at the lathe and less and less in what was my “day job” as a television documentary producer and author. Then in 2003, I opted for a new career as a full time wood turner and carver. In many ways, the two careers are not, as they may seem to be, mutually exclusive. I have always been fascinated by images and ideas, essential elements for writing, directing and as I have discovered, for woodturning. As a wood turner I try to combine images with the forms I create on the lathe and then carve into the finished vessel. My goal is to achieve a synthesis between the once living tree and the curves and movement of the carved vessel it has become. The grain and texture of the wood add a warmth and vitality that gives a distinct dimension to the finished piece. I work almost exclusively with
local woods. During the turning process grain, color, knots and
other features in the wood are revealed, often driving the design of
the piece. Thus, a knot or a dark spot might become an eye, the swirl
of the grain, the sweep of a wing.... All brought out, emphasized
and enhanced by the carving. |
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