Photo credits: Ram Keshav
Reha Salvi
Woodturner & Architect
I am a self - taught woodturner and artist based in Chennai, India. My journey into crafting contemporary and functional objects on the lathe began as a personal quest for a deeply satisfying hands-on experience, a branching out from my career as an architect and interior designer.
Drawn to the intimate connection between maker and material, I found solace and inspiration in the mesmerizing process of shaping wood on the lathe.
For me, woodturning is not just a craft—it's a form of meditation. The sensory experience of working with fresh timber, the rhythmic sound of tools meeting wood, and the graceful flight of shavings all contribute to a deeply immersive creative process. Each piece I create is born from a place of deep connection and mindfulness, as I strive to marry form and function in every project.
As a self-taught woodturner with no formal guidance, my journey has been one of constant experimentation with forms and finishes. Every piece I create is driven by a desire to improve my techniques, refine my designs, and become more efficient with each cut and detail. In a country where woodturning is often seen merely as a means to produce furniture parts and basic decor items, I am passionate about pushing this craft to its fullest potential and elevating it to an art form.
Woodturning: an art form
For me, woodturning is more than just shaping wood—it's a form of expression, a way to bring creativity and beauty to life. I want to challenge the traditional perceptions and show that woodturning can be much more than utilitarian. My goal is to introduce and nurture an artist culture within woodturning, to create pieces that are not just functional but also carry a story, evoke emotions, and inspire others.
The world of woodturning and the incredible woodturners across the globe inspire me deeply. Their work motivates me to excel, to strive for perfection with every turn of the lathe. The lack of comprehensive information and appreciation for woodturning in India only fuels my determination to bring a new artistic perspective to this craft.
Every time I step into my studio, surrounded by my tools and the raw, natural beauty of the wood, I am reminded of the incredible journey I'm on. I am grateful to the global woodturning community for their inspiration and support. Together, I believe we can reshape the perception of woodturning and celebrate it as the true art form it is.
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