Thursday, August 3, 2017

Handmade Turned Wooden Vessels Are Unique And Functional Works Of Art

By David Morris


The art of hand turning wood to create bowls, platters, cups, and other containers has been around for thousands of years. Even before the birth of Christ, artisans were using lathes to make receptacles for food and drink. Over the years, the process, techniques, and methods have changed, but the basic premise remains the same. These beautiful works are hard to resist. Almost everyone will stop to admire handmade turned wooden vessels.

The best craftsmen let the characteristics of the wood dictate the design of a piece. These artisans appreciate and take advantage of the natural flow found in the grain in order to create unique works that are certainly decorative but can be completely functional as well. Most of the pieces the artists create may be used to serve food and drink if they are property maintained. All kinds of wood is used in the production of pieces. The possibilities are limited only by the availability and malleability of specific kinds of wood.

Spalting occurs when fungus attacks a tree. If it is caught at the right time, artists can capture the interesting lines and colors it causes. Spalting is often found in dead trees, but it is still possible for a craftsman to manipulate the shape. The fungus dies when the moisture in the wood reduces to that found inside most homes. Once that happens, the spalting process stops, and there are no further changes in the wood.

Admirers are often curious about the pieces they see that have a particularly rich brown patina. Wood with this characteristic is known as brown oak. It is created when the beefsteak fungus attaches to the outside of timber. The waste produced from sapwood feeding permeates the tree and mixes with the timber's natural tannin. A rich, deep brown results.

Another wood characteristic that is commonly seen is created by burrs. These are abnormal growths inside trees that create odd looking lumps on the exterior. If the burrs are cut open, amazing swirl and whorl patterns are found. They may have unique coloring as well. Wood with burrs can be difficult to work with, but the results are usually worth the effort. The edges of pieces can have the bark on or off. Each method creates a completely different effect.

Many people who love to collect hand turned wood pieces believe the natural wood is preferable. There are plenty of artists and collectors who disagree and point to the particular beauty of work that is expertly colored using gesso and acrylics. Airbrushing can give pieces a light and airy look.

Admirers purchase pieces for as many reasons as artists create them. Some are most interested in the functional aspect of wood bowls, platters, and cups. Others consider them solely artwork to be displayed in cabinets or on shelves and tables. One of the beauties of collecting hand turned wood objects is their versatility.

Handmade wood pieces appeal to so many because they are so natural. Unlike paintings, sculptures, and metal work, this art brings the outdoors into the home. Many become prized possessions passed down through generations.




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