Juraj Krajčovič

Carpenter

Made to outlive us all

The first object Juraj made is still serving its purpose
He is inspired by various smells and sights
His first apprentice was his own daughter

Juraj Krajčovič has always been fascinated by wood. During high school he worked part-time in a wood workshop and later built his own small workshop in his parents’ house. He then studied wood sciences and technology in Zvolen, but didn't finish his studies in the end – the desire to actually make was stronger than the desire to study, a feeling that has never disappeared. These days, Juraj loves to sit on an old chair in his workshop and spend time just looking at the newest product he's made, gathering ideas. Ideas for products that will outlive us and even our children, so that our planet will not become a dumping ground for useless objects.

Interview

What was the first object you made?: A shoe rack. It wasn't entirely made of wood but I was already trying things out – the supporting poles were made from a beautiful red and purple plum tree wood, and I also inserted two woodcarvings into the door. The shoe rack is still in the hallway of my parents’ house.
How is woodwork linked to where you live?: One's surroundings have a huge effect on one’s creativity. The smell of wine in old barrels, the leaves and vineyards reflecting the autumn sun, the houses with wonky walls, the creaking old bench in the kitchen… it all inspires me.
Do you train apprentices?: My older daughter has been working with me for two years already. She is getting better at her craft and helps me with the newer technologies, the communication with customers, and the photography of our pieces.
Has there been a special moment in your professional life?: The moment I became my own boss. There used to be a saying that a useful trade pays dividends, but that's not always true. However, it doesn’t take long for a craftsman to be more precious to society than an IT guy. All you have to do is believe in yourself and try.

Juraj Krajčovič is a master artisan: he began his career in 1989 and he started teaching in 2003