Whiteman WoodWorks (W3) presents the creative work of artist and designer John Whiteman.
As a skilled craftsman and woodworker, it is my passion to assess the inherent variables and unique imperfections in each piece of raw, discarded wood and to enhance these characteristics to form something beautiful and useful. The act of creating anew from what nature originally provided is soulfully fulfilling.
Biography
Growing up on a small farm, surrounded by miles of wooded areas with streams and lakes, enabled me to explore the bountiful offerings in nature. The farm life also nurtured my affinity towards hands-on activities and enhanced my knowledge of working with tools not only to fix things but to create. With a keen interest in the functionality of things and a growing passion for 3D form, I pursued a degree in Product Design at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago—a school which followed the principle teachings of the German Bauhaus.
A few years after earning a design degree and working in my chosen profession, my career path transitioned into the related field of precision model making. I gained a greater understanding of various materials, finishing techniques, and planning processes utilizing technology to achieve desired results. However, in this new role, I missed the excitement and challenge of taking an idea from concept to fruition through more tangible hands-on activities. During this period, I began attending evening classes at the local Bauhaus Apprenticeship Institute, a haven for woodworking enthusiasts.
As my passion for working with wood grew, I ventured into woodturning on a small lathe in my basement, creating pens, wine stoppers, and small bowls as gifts for family and friends. Progressing to larger and more complex projects intensified my enjoyment of creating and exploring different surface treatments and finishing techniques. I began producing bowls with inclusions, vases, lidded boxes, yarn bowls, and mixed media projects. Experimentation in various techniques resulted in commissioned work for off-axis turned tap handles for a local brewery, self-watering smart planters, and yarn bowls with natural edges.
During the last two decades, I have acquired an inventory of equipment allowing me to work with wood from fallen local trees. The excitement of turning or milling a piece of wood and discovering the beauty of what lies inside increases with every creation. Satisfaction comes when sharing a creation with others who appreciate its beauty.
