Benoît Averly

Woodturner

©INSITU

©Fernanda Barretto

©Benoit Averly

An unplanned path as a woodturner

Benoît has been running his workshop since 2002
His work with wood focuses on textures
He collaborates mostly with interior architects and designers

Wood as a quest for balance and calm is the aim behind Benoît Averly's work: "I like the idea that my sculptures give space rather than take it," he explains. Having practised his craft since the early 2000s, he is a master in the art of woodturning and carving, creating fine contemporary sculptures. Benoît grew up on a farm and was quickly introduced to wood as a multipurpose material. It was therefore natural for him to turn to this craft, “I simply went for what I liked.” He is particularly fascinated by all things textural. He carries his camera everywhere he goes, and captures countless images of motifs and textures. These collected inspirations are reflected in his art and his creations feature organic, graphic and clean lines.

Interview

©Gilles Leimdorfer

©Benoit Averly

Did you learn your craft under the guidance of a master?: I did not learn from a master, but two years after my initial training, during a complementary course, I met Richard Raffan, an Australian woodturner renowned throughout the world for his work and his teaching. He invited me to be his assistant on courses in the United States and introduced me to the contemporary woodturning scene.
When and how did you start out as a professional?: At the outset, learning woodturning was not about becoming a professional artisan, but rather to learn a technique that I liked. At the end of my course, I bought some tools to turn at home. People who saw my creations wanted to buy them, so I turned to the Chambre des Métiers and, a little against my will, I became a professional woodturner!
What specific techniques are unique to your work?: Most of the techniques I use now are ones I have developed on my own, by trying out little by little. They are not listed and often not very academic. I have always liked to do things in my own way, so my techniques are both very special and quite basic at the same time.
How do you relate to innovation?: Innovation seems to me to be omnipresent when we talk about creativity. It is the very essence of our professions. It is expressed in not following a set path, and every day following our desires to try new things instead. Innovation in my case is not in the technology I use, but in the way I follow through on my desires.

Benoît Averly is an expert artisan he began his career in 2003