Patrick Rapp

HolzArt

Woodturner

Finding the art in wood

Patrick specialises in hand turning thin-walled objects in wood
His bowls can measure up to 90cms diameter
He mainly uses wood from his surroundings

In his freehand turned objects, Patrick Rapp seeks to bring out the beauty of very piece through simple design. He believes that very often what are normally viewed as the wood’s defects actually make an object a work of art. “They tell a story that we do not know but are allowed to see,” he explains. “It is up to me to recognise the hidden work of art and make it visible. It is interesting to give objects turned from fresh wood their final shape by warping them in the drying process. This is how wood becomes a co-designer of my objects.” His work includes bowls, hollow vessels, spheres, pens and pepper mills, which he either leaves in the natural colour of the wood or colours brightly, highlighting the wood grain and texture.

Interview

How did you start working with wood?: I trained as a carpenter and was self-employed for a while. Unfortunately, for physical reasons I became unable to work as a carpenter anymore, so I decided to attend a lathe course because I really missed working with wood.
Why did you choose woodturning?: I have always been interested in turning, but I never had time for it. During a basic course I took when I left my carpenter’s job I was gripped by the woodturner 'virus' and my fascination for this diverse craft has never let me go ever since.
What inspires you?: I am inspired by the beauty of wood itself. This work is creative, soothing and never boring, because there is always something new to discover and every piece of wood is unique. I love the craft itself, its versatility and the smell of the different woods.
How do you mix tradition and innovation?: Turning is one of the oldest crafts. Using the most traditional techniques of the trade, I bring out the beauty of wood in the best possible way, creating contemporary, simple and sleek designs that touch and inspire people.

Patrick Rapp is a master artisan: he began his career in 2006 and he started teaching in 2018