Maker in Wood

Matt Calder is recognised as one of the UK's most contemporary woodturners, constantly pushing the design potential of the material. His work is mostly large scale, drawing inspiration from ceramics, coastal erosion, Neolithic designs and themes such as birth and rebirth.

After studying Art Foundation at Yeovil College in the mid 80's, Matt spent a year at Parnham House, the John Makepiece school of furniture and forestry at Hooke Park, Dorset, where he worked alongside Andy Goldsworthy and Cecil Jordan. During this time he built a valuable rapport with timber and the woodland environment, learning essential forestry and chainsaw techniques, but also a deep-rooted connection and respect for wood.

He then spent several years studying ceramics and working with clay, - as well as being involved with the construction and firing of several large wood-burning kilns, which are still in use today - ceramics and the discipline of throwing clay have been a major foundation and inspiration for Matt's work with wood.

Timber species such as Elm and Oak lend themselves well to aspects such as erosion and the exposure of new forms within. 

Matt enjoys challenging convention - pushing the boundaries of turning to produce unique work.

 

Matt's portfolio also includes a large two-dimensional theme with wall hangings and wall sculpture. As erosion, and the exposure of different forms from the weather is a recurring theme, riverbeds, rock strata, and the movements of the sea and sand are all inspirations for these pieces. Generally only Devon hardwoods are used, mainly Beech, Sycamore, Oak, Ash or Elm.