Cyclopes Wood Bowl is a Curly Maple hollow form that reminds me of a cat’s eye due to the grain patterns in the wood.. The size is 4 inches in diameter by 4 inches high.
The bowl is in the Hollow Form style of wood turning. It requires practice and skill to remove the interior wood through the small opening. Since the maker is unable to see into the opening he relies on constant measuring with calipers and the cutting sound to remove the interior wood while maintaining an even thickness side wall.
The Hollow Form style was invented by Master Wood Turner, David Ellsworth in the 1970’s. Previously this form belonged glass blowers and ceramists. David thought he could produce this shape in wood. The challenge is that wood turning is a process that removes material. Ceramics and glass add material by pushing the material. A block of wood is static. It cannot gain volume from its initial size.
From Utility to Art Form
This Ellsworth process is revolutionary and wood turning became an art form. Ellsworth openly shares and teaches his techniques. David set the standard that a fellow turner can ask another turner for advice and it will be openly shared. This is not so true in other crafts. Ask a jeweler how they make their piece and chances are they will not share their technique.
If you like Cyclopes Wood Bowl here is a link to another hollow form. If you are looking for a special gift you can check out Gallery 23 in Blairstown.
Studio
I produce all of my items in Montvale, New Jersey, USA studio. I divide my time between the lathe and finishing at the workbench. Initially the form is made on the lathe. This is the starting point. If the piece is to come to life there are several secondary processes follow to make the item special.
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