Antonello Arminu
Rebelles
Woodworker
Pattada, Italy
Sardianian wood in a new light
- Antonello sources his wood from old houses and locally felled trees
- Collaborations with other artisans are central to his practice
- Some of his creations feature his signature wavy texture
Antonello Arminu grew up in the small town of Pattada in the heart of Sardinia, famous for its handmade knives. However, it was the scent of wood from a carpenter's shop that drew him into the world of craftsmanship. "I used to craft small objects as a teenager, and eventually, when I turned 18, I transformed my hobby into a classical practice," Antonello says. In 2016, he launched his own workshop Rebelles, where he shifted from traditional woodworking to contemporary design. He exclusively works with local, salvaged wood, such as Sardinian oak and juniper. Antonello continuously experiments with wood, giving new voice and interpretation to Sardinian craftsmanship.
INTERVIEW
As my workshop name suggests, I am a rebel with a positive approach. Even if I do not identify with traditional wooden lapwings and carved benches, I have a deep fondness and respect for Sardinian craftsmanship. I consider myself a Sardinian artisan who has found his own approach to the tradition.
I use traditional woodworking techniques and basic tools such as manual pantographs, chisels, screwdrivers, and a very simple planer and panel saw. It is the handwork that makes all the difference. My signature wavy texture, for example, is the result of a unique, manual technique that I developed myself.
Sardinian juniper is my favourite, even if it can be as hard as stone once it matures, with a lot of splits and imperfections. I also like working with Sardinian oak and local woods in general. As a rule, I use waste wood from old houses or trees that have already been cut down.
Over the years, I have collaborated with weavers, metalworkers and many other craftspeople, and it has always been an enriching experience. In 2026, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Rebelles, I launched a project with ten fellow artisans to experiment together and promote the creativity of our island.
Antonello Arminu
Rebelles
Woodworker
Pattada, Italy
ADDRESS
Address upon request, Pattada, Italy
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
PHONE
+39 3491452727
LANGUAGES
Italian, Sardinian
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