Ozge Caglayan

Woodcarver

Chasing the integrity of wood's natural form

An architect by profession, Özge pursued wood craftsmanship because of her love of material
Her work aims to preserve the methods of traditional Turkish craftsmanship
Her pieces are inspired by the natural forms of wood, respecting their tactile nature

Özge Çağlayan’s journey into the world of wood craftsmanship began during a visit to her father’s house, in the forests of Türkiye's northern region. Having already incorporated wood into her projects as an architect and interior designer, on this particular visit, the unique patterns of wood inspired Özge to focus on this material more deeply. “In our fast-paced world, wood is often utilised for its practicality, serving as a basic form to fulfill our needs. However, my encounter with the natural beauty of the forest instilled in me a desire to delve into woodworking beyond mere functionality,” says the artisan. Özge opened her first workshop in 2013. Holding a degree in architecture, she supplemented her education by attending woodcarving courses and working alongside master artisans. Aiming to preserve the methods of traditional Turkish craftsmanship, she creates products that harmonise the natural structure of wood with functionality, so that every piece possesses its own tactile story.

Interview

Why did you choose this craft?: I chose woodcarving because I am fascinated by the act of shaping wood. In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, there is a concern that traditional craftsmanship might become obsolete. I see this as an opportunity to tackle tasks that machines cannot replicate. It is a challenge that keeps me committed to the art of woodworking.
How would you define what you do?: I am an architect but I have ventured beyond the normal confines of my profession to focus on wooden designs of various sizes. I uncover the stories of the trees, and write new ones. With pride and joy, I lose myself for days as I hand-work my products.
What do you love most about your profession?: What I love most about my profession is its deep connection to traditional Turkish craftsmanship. Each piece I create is meticulously handcrafted, preserving our ancestors' rich heritage and techniques. By reviving these age-old practices, I would like to ensure that our cultural legacy continues to thrive and inspire future generations.
What does 'well made' mean to you?: I find it essential to draw inspiration from nature when working with wood. This involves transforming natural elements into designs that establish a tangible connection, inviting touch and evoking sensory experiences.

Ozge Caglayan is an expert artisan she began her career in 2013