Matthew Lovell

Matthew began woodturning in late 2003 having been given his first lathe as a surprise 40th birthday present by his wife. After a 3 day hands on course to learn how to present a piece of steel to a whizzing lump of wood without breaking his wrists, Matthew embarked on establishing his style which is to present the wood in its best shape to emphasise its grain and highlight its bark, sapwood and heartwood wherever possible ensuring that it can still be identified as a piece of wood. He refuses to use stains and colours and works with as wide a range of woods as possible to show off the natural beauty of each piece. English wood varieties are mainly from local woods in Derbyshire though some exotic species from sustainable sources are also used for their beautiful grain and colour. Many pieces start life with one purpose but their knots and soft and hard patches dictate what the piece finally appears as. Matthew creates a large variety of products including odd shapes, graters, cake stands, candlesticks, bowls and dishes, large platters and plates. Commissions have included a round box for long matches, a simple pot stand and a large mortar and pestle. Matthew can be found woodturning at Christmas Cottage, Church Street, Youlgrave DE45 1WL where he has his workshop and display room – access via the low door in the corner of the courtyard. Examples of his work can be found at: www.woodturningatchristmascottage.co.uk