Production

Manufacturing Process – From Idea to Artwork

The Journey of a Piece of Wood to Sculpture

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

Step 1: Idea & Conception

Everything 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 both.

I create rough sketches, but the true form usually only develops during the work 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 inspect various pieces:

• How does the wood grain run?
• Are there any special features like holes, cracks, or growths?
• What color nuances does the wood offer?
• Does the hardness suit the planned project?

Sometimes I discard my original idea because the wood itself suggests a better one.

Step 3: Rough Shaping

With a chainsaw or band saw, I remove all superfluous material and create the basic form. At this stage, the sculpture still looks raw – but the direction is recognizable.

This step requires courage: every cut is final. That's why I work slowly and deliberately. Mistakes can hardly be corrected.

Step 4: Fine Work with Hand and Tool

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

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

This phase often takes the longest and requires the highest concentration. Every movement must be precise, as mistakes can hardly be corrected.

Step 5: Sanding & Surface Treatment

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 prominent.

Depending on the desired surface:

• Smoothly polished: For elegant, modern sculptures
• Matte sanded: For natural, organic works
• Textured: 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 coat: Applied and absorbed deep into the wood
2. Drying: Several hours to days
3. Second oil coat: For deeper protection
4. Polishing: With a soft cloth for a silky sheen
5. Optional wax: For particularly exquisite surfaces

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

Step 7: Quality Control & Stamping

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 right for freestanding sculptures?
• Are all elements stable?

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

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