About Us
Meet The Artist
Growing up surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest (PNW), I always had this special love for the beauty of the place, the trees, and the amazing woodworking traditions around. My adventure into the world of woodturning started back in middle school, when the woodshop program first exposed me to this craft. This introduction left a lasting impression on me, with the PNW's incredible environment constantly inspiring me.
Working with a lathe in that woodshop program exposed me to the foundational techniques of woodturning. Like a spark igniting a fire, it kindled my curiosity and set ablaze a creative ember within me that would burn for years to come. However, it wasn't until after 35 years that my early love for woodturning truly rekindled.
It was a joyous twist of fate when my daughter expressed her own interest in creating a bowl similar to the one I had made in woodshop. Eager to share this craft with her, I acquired a lathe, a set of woodturning tools, and a few bowl blanks. Together, we embarked on our woodturning journey, crafting bowls and even venturing into making acorn boxes.
From that point forward, my dedication to woodturning intensified. I recognized the importance of investing in higher-quality tools and equipment to further refine my skills. Now, I strive to devote a couple of hours each day to immersing myself in the artistry of my woodshop, transforming raw materials into exquisite pieces of art.
The PNW is renowned for its vast forests and diverse range of wood species, making it a perfect place for someone interested in woodworking and woodturning. The rich natural surroundings and the unique characteristics of the wood found in the region are a constant source of inspiration for my artistic journey.
Woodturning, as an art form, allows me to transform raw materials into functional and visually appealing objects. The process of shaping wood on a lathe and revealing its innate beauty requires a combination of technical skills and artistic vision.
In my approach to woodturning, I prioritize allowing the wood to speak for itself. I believe in showcasing the natural beauty and character of the wood in my creations. With thoughtful craftsmanship, I strive to shape each piece in a way that highlights the wood's inherent qualities, creating art that captivates and resonates with viewers.
My story is a testament to the lasting impact of early exposure and experiences in shaping our passions and pursuits. Rediscovering woodturning after all those years has been a fulfilling journey, reminding me of the power of creativity and the ability to continuously develop my skills and artistic expression throughout life.
- Eric M Johnson