It is my pleasure to introduce Fellow Artist, Adam Johnson of Churchel Fine Woods. His first collection at Westwood Color features eight stunning hand turned bowls, each with its own story. When I asked to Adam to tell his story, here’s what he shared.
I was born and raised in the Hood Canal area of the Pacific Northwest, and have always had a deep connection with nature and the forest. I love exploring this amazing region with friends and family, drawing inspiration and respect.
I spent 20 years in culinary arts and fine dining, including some ice sculpting earlier in my career. I have always been very passionate about where I sourced my ingredients and how to best showcase them. I believe I carry this passion over into my wood working by exposing and highlighting nature’s raw beauty.
Wood has always been my preferred medium to work with. As a boy in my father’s wood shop, I would make wooden swords or marshmallow catapults. As I got older I started sculpting and carving wood. In the early years of my culinary career I had a great mentor that also turned bowls; he contributed to both my love of cooking and my love of woodworking. I found a great interest in the lathe and wood turning, and I’ve spent significant time honing my skills. I have added new elements and techniques as I have grown as an artist, including epoxy work and fractal burning.
I source most of my wood – primarily Bigleaf Maple – from a generational family forest located between Mt. Rainer and Mt. St. Helens. As a result, each hand-crafted piece is unique and one of a kind!
Please feel free to reach out via email with any questions or comments at churchel.finewoods@gmail.com