Ludovic Deplanque

The infinite creative potential of wood

• Ludovic specialises in the hollowing technique
• He used to be an interiors joiner and cabinetmaker
• His work in wood combines sculptural, textural and colouring processes

A carpenter and cabinetmaker by training, Ludovic Deplanque discovered woodturning by chance and quickly developed a passion for the technique. Thanks to his knowledge of wood, he first explored the craft on his own. “I then did an internship with Master Alain Mailland, which helped me go beyond the limits I had set myself. It is an infinite world of creations, and the only limits are those you set for yourself.” Ludovic uses the hollowing technique to meticulously sculpt wood into beautiful objects, highlighting the contrasting qualities of this living material. Ludovic finds his inspiration in nature: from the world of plants to the marine and animal worlds. “Everything around us is marked by colours, textures and volumes that are to me, an open door to creativity.”

Interview

©Henri Deroche

©Ludovic Deplanque

Do you remember when you first felt inspired to start in this craft?

I am a passionate person, and I used to enjoy working with materials alongside my work as a cabinetmaker. It was an outlet for me until the day I reached saturation point in my initial profession. Following the death of my mother, I said to myself that it was time to take the plunge, because you never know what tomorrow will bring. That was the catalyst.

What attracted to you to woodturning?

Turning is the fastest way to transform wood. You start with a whole tree trunk and very quickly create a finished sketch or piece. I did not have much free time at the start, so that was the first thing that captivated me. It also gave me the opportunity to work with all types of wood, whether green or dry, which I truly enjoyed.

How would you define what you do?

I work with delicate, fragile shapes in contrast with the rough, dense material that is wood. My role is to surprise and create an emotion, making the person looking at my work think that the piece could have emerged from nature or that it is not actually wood.

Is your craft linked in some way to the territory?

I mainly work with local wood from my region, wishing to give it a new lease of life. I also regularly offer tours of my workshop and give demonstrations and training courses. I like the idea of inspiring or creating vocations. It is a world of sharing after all.

Ludovic Deplanque is a rising star: he began his career in 2018 and he started teaching in 2020

Works

©Ludovic Deplanque

©Ludovic Deplanque

©Ludovic Deplanque

©Ludovic Deplanque

Where