MarkvonD Woodart

About

I make turned and sculptural decorative and artistic items, bowls and platters (also on commission) from native NZ and exotic wood.

Story

As a woodturner I seek to exploit the different characteristics of wood which is a dynamic product of nature (grain, figure, colour, texture and defects), all (especially burls) offering me endless variety and challenge.
I prefer to find inspiration in the wood, rather than to impose a design on it. However, for many projects I look for a piece of wood to match what I want to make.
My favourite woods are from our native trees, especially Black Maire, Pohutukawa, Matai and Rata, Red Beech and Totara (obtained from sustainable sources). I also enjoy turning introduced species such as Plane, Magnolia, Elm, Ash, Australian Blackwood, Poplar and fruit woods, but I’ll turn almost any timber.
I frequently embellish pieces with carving, pyrography and colour (especially wood that has a more bland character), and also explore the sculptural potential of turned wood.
Turning freshly cut wood is also fascinating, as it distorts as it dries and produces very organic forms.
The creativity, experimentation and enjoyment of woodturning are optional extras!