Thomas Schöppner

Woodturner | Zwingenberg, Germany

Recommended by

Zentralverband des Deutschen Handwerks

Intrigued by the symmetries of nature

Thomas' work showcases the great variety of woods
He celebrates the natural grain of wood in his creations
Patience and time are essential factors in his work

Thomas Schöppner grew up in his parents' carpentry and furniture shop. In his early years, he swept up sawdust and helped with measuring, cutting, and processing the wood. He studied interior design at the Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences, where Bauhaus design principles played an important role. "Theories and formulae related to design fascinate me greatly," says Thomas, remembering that time. "Occasionally, after completing an object, I measure it, just for fun, and determine its design formulae." While working as an interior designer, Thomas taught himself to turn wood and developed an increasing interest in wet turning. As a career change, he founded his wood design studio in Zwingenberg in 2002, where he now turns huge wooden vessels.

Interview

Which specific technique do you master?: Wet turning of wood, I would say. Besides being different on the lathe, the art lies in the knowledge that you have to develop around it. It is essential to know how the wood behaves during drying and to process it accordingly.
What inspires you?: It is nature. I would point out how consistent the structures and symmetries in nature are. Almost all things have a similar basic structure, which is then manifested in a variety of materials and variations. Seeing this inspires me a lot.
Is that why you leave the surface of your objects natural?: The naturalness of the wood surfaces is very important to me. This is why I only wax or oil my work. Each type of wood reveals its own grain and structure.
What do people not usually know about your work?: Many people are unaware of the variety of woods and how they differ in colour and structure. Furthermore, many people do not understand how wood grows, how annual rings and growth layers develop, how wood can be processed fresh or dried, and what different woods smell like.

Thomas Schöppner is a master artisan: he began his career in 2002 and he started teaching in 2002