Neil Whitelaw
Wood-worker based in Oughtibridge, Sheffield, making useful and beautiful things. Neil’s approach to making is to first forage and find wood - a collector of sorts - then craft something informed and inspired by the characteristics found within that piece. His home workshop is a treasure trove of wood, beautiful tools and the sound of the river in the background.
Self portrait of Neil in his Sheffield workshop. pictured with our 350ml tapered mug in charcoal
My job in three words are: Making beautiful useful wooden things … sorry 5 words.
A description of my studio would be… chaotic and a bit messy most of the time. Quite peaceful as it's sort of in the woods in Oughtibridge, but it's freezing in winter.
If I could work with one material it would be… Hawthorn is one of my favourite woods to work with. It has a history of healing and spirituality with the Celtic people which I am drawn to.
My wardrobe staple is… my recently purchased vintage dungarees!! Super toasty...
I’m currently reading… Handbook for Hard Times by Gelong Thubten
I find myself thinking a lot about… how divisive we have become and wanting to run away in a camper van.
One of my ‘desert islands discs’ would be Gimme Shelter, Rolling Stones.
The last thing I cooked was… a lovely mushroom, chilli and garlic spaghetti that I saw Gennaro make.
In my fridge right now you’ll find… many pickled things and some fermented. Iron bru, obviously.
The thing that most excites me right now is… my new beeswax mix for wood finishing. I realise that might sound a wee bit tragic…
I’m quite afraid of… facing up to my demons.
On my wish-list is… more adventures in the outdoors and different countries.
My message to the world is that… work more on common ground. Listen and have compassion.
We have collaborated with Neil on a special series of 11 lidded jars, which will be available for sale from 19:00 on Tuesday 28th November.
Neil will be exhibiting his work at Rivelinco at The Pavilion in Hillsborough Park on the 2nd December.
thewoodenthusiast.co.uk
@thewoodenenthusiast2
