Production

Production process – From idea to artwork

The journey of a piece of wood to a sculpture

Each of my artworks goes through a careful process that can take days or weeks.

Step 1: Idea & Concept

It all begins with an idea. Sometimes it's a special piece of wood whose grain tells a story. Sometimes it's an idea that demands the right material. Often it's a dialogue between the two.

I create rough sketches, but the true form usually only develops through working with the material. Wood is alive – it communicates with the artist and guides the process.

Step 2: Material selection

Choosing the right wood is crucial. I'm examining several pieces:

  • What is the grain pattern of the wood?
  • Are there any special features such as holes, cracks, or growths?
  • What color nuances does the wood offer?
  • Is the hardness appropriate for the planned project?

Sometimes I discard my original idea because the wood itself makes a better suggestion.

Step 3: Rough shaping

Using a chainsaw or band saw, I remove all excess material and work out the basic shape. At this stage, the sculpture still looks rough – but the direction is recognizable.

This step requires courage: every cut is final. That's why I work slowly and deliberately. Mistakes are almost impossible to correct.

Step 4: Fine-tuning by hand and tools

Now comes the actual sculpting. Using carving knives, chisels, rasps, and files, I work out the details:

  • Curves are refined
  • Edges are set or broken
  • Surfaces acquire texture
  • The sculpture gains character

This phase often takes the longest and requires the utmost concentration. Every move must be perfect, because mistakes are almost impossible to correct.

Step 5: Grinding & Surface Finishing

Sanding is a labor-intensive process. I start with coarse grit and work my way up to the finest sandpaper. With each grit, the wood becomes smoother, and the grain becomes more pronounced.

Depending on the desired surface finish:

  • Smoothly polished: For elegant, modern sculptures
  • Matt finish: For natural, organic works
  • Structured: For rustic, powerful objects

Step 6: Oiling & Waxing

Surface treatment is the final and perhaps most important step. I use only natural oils and waxes:

  1. First oil layer: Applied and penetrates deep into the wood.
  2. Drying time: Several hours to days
  3. Second oil layer: For deeper protection
  4. Polishing: Use a soft cloth for a silky shine.
  5. Optional wax: For particularly elegant surfaces

The oil makes the grain shine and protects the wood from moisture and dirt.

Step 7: Quality control & stamp

Before a piece leaves my workshop, I critically examine it:

  • Are all surfaces perfect?
  • Are there any sharp edges that need to be smoothed?
  • Is the balance achieved in freestanding sculptures?
  • Are all elements stable?

Only when I am completely satisfied will I put my stamp on it.

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