Cristian Ioan Tudor

Atelier Arboritm

Cabinetmaker

Studio Craft&Light ©Cristian Tudor Ioan

In communion with wood

Cristian is a self-taught carpenter
He only uses natural finishes that he prepares himself or buys
He likes to highlight the characteristics of wood

Cristian Tudor opened Atelier Arboritm in 2011, during his final year of university. Driven by a personal need to draw objects and bring them to life, he started his journey in woodworking without any prior training, except for the knowledge and tools he got from his grandfather. He learned the art of carpentry by himself, from books, tutorials and through experimentation. Cristian handcrafts each piece with precision and a focus on aesthetics. He sometimes colours the wood by burning it, thus creating contrasts between the deep black of the burned fibres and the light colour of the natural material. He pays special attention to choosing the right wood and always highlights its peculiarities. Cristian masters traditional joinery techniques and uses only natural finishes.

Interview

Studio Craft&Light ©Cristian Tudor Ioan

Studio Craft&Light ©Cristian Tudor Ioan

How would you define what you do?: My approach is about creating a balance between function and aesthetics in an organic and precise way. I try to use the material’s characteristics and strength to minimise waste and create a sense of sincerity in the form of a contemporary piece of furniture.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: In order to innovate, you have to immerse yourself deeply into the use of your tools. Understanding traditional joinery, the particularities of wood and the use of tools led me to new ways of designing and making furniture. I constantly learn and adapt techniques to create contemporary furniture.
Why did you choose this profession?: I think it was more that the craft picked me. My grandfather's ability to mend everything fascinated me as a child. I felt at ease watching him using his tools and that's when carpentry began to attract me. The copper hammer I have from him is one of my most cherished and often used tools.
What do you love most about your craft?: My profession is about communion. I love wood’s vibration, its smell and patterns, the creative process and the challenges specific to each project. Sometimes, an unsuccessful attempt gives me a new perspective. I find my inspiration in nature’s geometry, tradition and architecture.

Cristian Ioan Tudor is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2011 and he started teaching in 2021