Judging

In my mid twenties I went to a woodturning display and decided I was going to  buy a lathe and start turning. Being self-taught there were many mistakes. I was drawn to the hollow vessel. I loved it's simplicity and the fact that hollow vessels are quite technically difficult to turn. In my work I try to create something that is naturally beautiful showcasing the raw material in its many forms. 

Simon is a full time turner based out of Sydney, Australia. He specialises in the more artistic side of turning, enjoying many unique commissions. German ring turning is one of the unique styles that Simon is known for but he also turns hollow forms, does carved embellishment and salad bowls.

Emma has been involved with the craft since she was 16. Now, she is the youngest Chair of the Register of Professional Turners in the UK. Emma is a popular demonstrator throughout the UK, Europe, America and Australia. As well as woodturning, Emma had an apprenticeship in wood carving and uses a variety of colouring techniques. 

Cindy’s work has been in exhibitions around the USA. She is an active member of the American Association of Woodturners, and demonstrates at national symposia and clubs. Through her videos, she shares her passion for woodturning with the entire community.

Guy discovered woodturning in 2016 at Hamilton Woodturners Club - this transformed his life. In 2018/19 he studied at the Escoulen School then returned to New Zealand to refine his craft, before settling in Carcassonne, France in 2024. Guy, now a board member of the Association of French Artistic Woodturning, works from his home.

Phil is known for his coloured vessels, with their clear beautiful shapes and flowing lines.  He uses bright contemporary colours to make the figure "pop" and the "hidden" figure can be seen. He has won awards and is invited to teach and demonstrate his techniques around the world.

A self-taught wood sculptor from Ireland. He uses Irish wood from sustainable resources.  His use of gold leaf with ebonised oak and ever evolving textures creates stunning pieces of wall art. Emmet Kane has also gone back and visited bleaching the oak.  He is excited with the challenge of making, creating and finding new ways of pushing his skill.

Mark’s explorations into multi-axis turning began as a student in the Furniture Design Program at Rhode Island School of Design in the mid 1970s. He taught in the Fine Woodworking Program at Bucks County Community College from 1981 and became professor emeritus in 2017. A maker, researcher, writer and demonstrator throughout the western world.

Woodturning started as a hobby in his mid-fifties as time spent on other commitments and work allowed. His love of the sea is reflected in many of his pieces, particularly the very thin-walled hollow forms. These are generally formed from timber won from storm damaged pohutukawa trees which can be seen lining the shores of many beaches.