Artist Profile and Why I Make Stuff
I make stuff because I can’t help myself. Being a Maker is my adrenaline rush. My mind is always wandering and exploring forms, textures and colors. Then I have to translate what my brain is experiencing to my hands. Most of the time my head is way ahead of my hand skill set.
I have always dabbled in design and art. In high school I was sent to the Brooklyn Museum to study painting. In college, I floundered and finally found my calling in a graduate degree Package Design program at Pratt Institute. I am the founder of Source Packaging and Cases by Source dedicated to producing custom packaging for industry. For many years designed and produced product for industry. That took me away from satisfying my personal creative needs. Then by accident I discovered wood turning in 2009 and I have never been happier creating for myself and my customers and clients. I have received awards at regional competitions and international recognition from peers from “The World of Wood Turners." I am represented in galleries in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
Artist Statement
For many years I was searching for a material and process to reconnect with my design roots and personal creative expression. Always drawn to wood and furniture building, I discovered woodturning by accident one day wandering through an art exhibition. I noticed a wood art piece that fascinated me. It was made by a famous wood turner and was priced at several thousand dollars. At that moment, I decided that I had to learn the process so I could perhaps create an object like the one in front of me. Within six months I signed up for some lessons and purchased my first lathe. I discovered that nothing measures up to the excitement and discovery of peeling away layers of wood and exposing hidden treasures in grain, texture and color. Many woodturners describe this process as a wood turning addiction. So now after thousands of hours of practicing I am able to share my art with you.
I have been fortunate to have met, studied and received advice and encouragement from many of the leading artists in this medium. This has inspired me to experiment beyond my comfort zone with color, carving and techniques borrowed from other art forms.
Major influences in my work come from studying art history and twentieth century masters. Observing simple and elegant forms, textures and patterns and viewing nature have inspired organic relevance that can all be seen throughout my work.
If you want to learn more visit my website www.AATurning.com and follow me on social media:
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/AATurning
Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/AATurning
