Nick Arnull, Woodturner

Naomi Jones talks to Nick Arnull, a woodturner who uses colour and texture to create vibrant pieces.

Pyro Carved Candy Twist Trio; Nesting Boxes, both by Nick Arnull

ABOVE (left-right): Pyro Carved Candy Twist Trio, small £175, medium £350, large £475; two of three Nesting Boxes, £625 for the trio.

Have you always been creative?
Yes, I can recall designing my first studio at about the age of 10.

When did you choose wood as a medium?
During the mid 1990s: after taking time out from my business, I discovered the art of woodturning and the joy of making three-dimensional, tactile objects.

Who is your greatest influence?
Fellow wood artist, Jacques Vesery: he taught me the importance of scale relative to the marks being made; also, Del Stubbs for tool technique; and John Jordan for the simplicity of true form.

Where do you find inspiration?
My early background of art school and ceramics helps me create texture and colour; today, this is still the direction and the passion behind my work.

How do new ideas come to you?
Having an open mind with a clear eye allows ideas to form from the smallest of sparks; sometimes I wait until the technique evolves to allow its creation.

What motivates you?
The ability to create new works for exhibition; the advancement of customer deadlines; and on occasions, the ability to shock the conservative world of traditional woodturning.

Pierced Rim Bowl; Rock Crystal Rim, both by Nick Arnull

ABOVE (left-right): Pierced Rim Bowl, £175; Rock Crystal Rim, £275.

Is this a full-time occupation?
Yes, but it has many levels: restoration, reproduction, production, teaching, demonstrating and writing, as well as exploration.

Do you have your own studio?
Yes, and I built it myself. It’s situated in the rural countryside of Norfolk. I’m far enough from the main village and the general noise of everyday life; however, passing trade still finds me.

How do you spend your spare time?
My mind never switches off, so I have numerous hobbies: drawing, painting and cycling.

Who’s your biggest fan?
My wife (who’s also my biggest critic) and daughters.

Who do you most admire in the arts and crafts world?
Anyone who has the fortitude to give it a go, rather than just dream about it.

What advice would you pass on?
Walk your own path and work to the very best of your ability at all times, no matter what level you’re at; and always be proud of what you do.