Christoph Leuner

Woodworker

Puristic characters in wood

Christoph's design philosophy is to create simple and functional pieces
Over 50 objects appear in his HOLLOW-BODY series
His wife is a ceramicist and his artistic partner

Even before he could own a knife, Christoph Leuner found a way to work with wood. After high school, he decided to train as a carpenter at the Technical College for Wood Sculptors in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where he was deeply impressed from his very first visit. He returned there as a lecturer later in life. Christoph's woodworking skills were encouraged as much as his design interests at this college. He also met his most reliable artistic exchange partner here, the ceramicist Stephanie Borchardt, who became his wife. Christoph's series HOLLOW-BODY exemplifies the diversity of his skills. What began as a remembrance object for his daughter's baptism has evolved into an ensemble of over 50 objects, created over decades. He incorporates almost every type of woodworking technique into them and invents new techniques in the process. They all have in common Christoph's design philosophy, which is to create simple and functional items that can stand alone and behold their own enigmatic character.

Interview

How does your wife contribute to your work?: We met during the exciting years of learning our different skills in different places. Our visions of a purist simple life and the objects we appreciate have always been similar. The lively exchange I have with her about our work prompted me to decide against further academic design studies in favour of implementing what we reflected on together: making crafts as a way of life.
How are you connected to Garmisch-Partenkirchen?: I moved here only for education, but now this place has become my home. The college for woodcarving and joinery has a worldwide reputation and I taught there. Part of my social network and my studio are here, too. But I also feel a sense of belonging here due to the Alpine scenery and the long tradition of wood art.
In what ways does folk art interest you?: Folk art mostly follows function and shows a modest attitude. For me it can be a starting point for more individual expression. The language of form inspires me most when it comes to simple geometric or technical shapes. This intimate process of developing and making things offers the opportunity to reflect my own values with all the senses.
What does well made mean to you?: A well made piece of work exudes a vibrant, distinctive presence, in my opinion. There is a certain aura of enigma and mystery associated with it, which gives it a character of its own. Getting there is something I continue to explore.

Christoph Leuner is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1983