Alchemy in Wood
Wood Metal Alchemy Vessel is a theme that I often pursue to make a piece of wood no longer identifiable as wood. The viewer will pick it up thinking the pieces is metal. Madrone is a wood that will change shape as it dries after turning. This is a perfect material to produce organic shapes. I use copper paint and oxidizer for the antique effect. The size is 3.5 inch diameter by 2.5 tall.
Hollow Form Turning
Wood Metal Alchemy Vessel is a Hollow Form style of wood turning. It requires skill and experience to remove most of the interior wood through a small opening. The maker does this with hook shape tools. Unable to see into the opening he relies on calipers and sound to remove the interior wood without breaking through the wall.
This process was invented by Master Wood Turner, David Ellsworth in the 1970’s. Previously it a form known by glass blowers and ceramists. David, thought it would be possible to produce this shape in wood. The challenge being that woodturning is a process that removes material. Ceramics and glass add material. A block of wood is static. It cannot be made larger.
From Utility to Art Form
This process is revolutionary. Wood turning became an art form. Ellsworth openly shares this technique. Because of him it is a fact that if you ask a wood turner how they make something they will share their knowledge. 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.
Here is a link to another hollow form piece Ambrosia Hollow Form Bowl
Studio
I produce all of my items in Montvale, NJ USA studio. I divide my time between the lathe and finishing at the workbench.
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