Philip Gershwin

After 40 years of woodcraft I only started wood turning recently.  My woodworking friends warned me that turning is an addiction, but I did not listen.  Turning has become my obsession as all other interests have faded away.
 
All woodcraft is an art. Often it is the art of war as you bend the wood to your will.  But woodturning is more a result of understanding. Understanding the personality of the wood and determining what it is best meant for.  There is an excitement of uncovering the hidden textures and grain as you work down the wood.  The satisfaction when everything comes out perfect.  The occasional high-speed explosion when it does not.
 
For every hour spent turning there are countless hours spent just staring at the raw blocks of wood. Trying to visualize a finished shape with in it.  Some of my materials are purchased through conventional retailers; some are gifted from friends abroad (such as the Buffalo Horns from Peter Cua in the Philippines, or the olive wood from a friend in Jerusalem), some are harvested myself from fallen trees and branches.  Each piece is a unique adventure.
 
I thank you for taking the time to look at my creations.