Turning Point
Fluted Flower Bowl is where I began to explore carving and color stains. After turning this bowl I was looking for a way to make it more organic and interesting. I guess other turners who were carving and adding decorative features to their work were influencing my direction.
My goal was to make a piece that did not have perfect machine like cuts. I wanted something inspired by nature that was irregular and balanced at the same time. When the form was complete I began to experiment with stains and wood dye. Somewhere I got the idea to layer different colors on top of each other to create highlights and shadows. Working with reds, blues and black I came up with this abstract flower vessel which remains one of my favorite pieces. Perhaps because it is a breakthrough piece for me. The size is 9 inches tall with a 7 diameter.
Revolution in Wood Turning
The process of turning wood goes back to the ancient Egyptians. The main function was to produce utilitarian pieces for preparing and consuming food. This lasted until the mid 1900’s when there were a few break out moments with Makers using the lathe to create art pieces. Wood artists began to carve and paint the wood. This movement was not welcomed by many in the wood turning establishment. When I began my journey in 2008 and quickly moved to decoration I received a great deal of resistance from my guild. The old timers brushed off my work as a fade. A few even left the group when other members took an interest in what I was doing and began to incorporate these techniques in their work.
If you like Fluted Flower Bowl here is another piece that I consider innovative. It is certainly not good for holding cereal.
Gift Ideas
If you are looking for a unique gift I am represented in several galleries and you can check out my work in New Hope, PA. at Red Tulip Crafts.
Studio
I produce all of my items in my studio in New Jersey, USA.