London

Arto Salminen

Höyry-galleria

Woodturner | Korpilahti, Finland

Boxes, bowls and other hollow wooden forms

Arto is a self-taught woodturner
Ceramics are one of his greatest sources of inspiration
He began his journey by making and fixing furniture

Arto Salminen works exclusively with local timber that he sources himself from forests and parks. "If I were to have one regret, it would be not finding woodturning earlier in life," he says. While studying economics, art history and ethnology at the university, Arto had the urge to find a practice that would allow him to do something with his hands. During a woodturning course given by Ray Key in the UK in 1993, he knew he had found what he was looking for. At Höyry-galleria, Arto creates objects with traditional woodturning tools and methods, in collaboration with enameller Ulla Huttunen. "For me, this way of life is equal to freedom, or at least to an illusion of it," he grins.

Interview

What was a turning point in your career?: In 1993, I participated in a woodturning seminar held by the late British artist Ray Key, which was a mind-blowing experience. I was completely carried away. This demonstration determined the course of my career.
Is it important for you to use local materials?: I only use local timber sourced from parks and gardens. I work with a band saw and chainsaw, and I try to make use of every part of the timber. With the rest, I keep the house warm.
What aspect of your craft tends to surprise people?: I am repeatedly asked how the wood I work with does not crack throughout the making process. People also wonder where I find big oak and elm trees in the area where I live.
Does technology play a role in preserving your craft?: I am not very familiar with technology, but I learned that 3D printing is being used in manufacturing tools. However, I believe that automation, lasers, 3D printing and other innovations of this type could be a threat to traditional skills and methods.

Arto Salminen is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1990