Breaking Boundaries: How Working with Wood Transformed My Artistic Journey

Art is a journey that unfolds over time, reflecting both the artist’s skills and personal growth. When I became a full-time artist in 2021, I made three promises to myself: never quit, stay disciplined, and always push my limits. These commitments became my beacon, guiding me through moments of creativity that felt stuck and uninspired.

At first, painting on canvas was exhilarating. Each brushstroke was a new lesson learned. But as time rolled on, I began to feel boxed in by the limits of the canvas. The thrill of painting started to dull. I found myself asking, "What’s beyond the frame?"

What if I broke that boundary? What if I ventured into something that challenged me? These questions simmered in my mind until one day, I decided to take the leap.

Junior posing with his Abstract Art

The First Encounter with Wood

I’ll never forget my first experience working with wood. It was an early morning, around 6 a.m., when I began a new project. I became so immersed in the process that I didn’t stop until 8:30 p.m. I lost track of time, fully absorbed in my creation. For the first time in a long while, I felt a profound connection to my work, as if I had found a fresh sense of purpose.

This newfound curiosity ignited a passion within me that I hadn’t felt in years. The texture of the wood, its responsive nature, and the variety of tools I could use opened up endless possibilities. I realized I had discovered something remarkable—an avenue to express my creativity beyond my wildest imagination.

Embracing Abstract Forms

As the months flew by, I began to experiment with more abstract wood pieces. Each creation was a lesson in itself. Some pieces received admiration, while others sparked debate. One particular sculpture went viral, collecting over 1.4 million views across social media. The attention brought both praise and criticism, marking a turning point in my artistic journey.

I realized that in the world of art, if you don’t have detractors, you may not be creating something noteworthy. This insight empowered me to embrace my artistic voice, no matter what others thought. Working with wood evolved into a new language for me, allowing me to convey depth, movement, and emotion.

Junior posing with his abstract wood art

The Artistic Process

Creating with wood is both a challenge and a joy. Unlike painting, where adjusting colors is straightforward, woodworking demands precision and patience. Every cut and joint must be deliberate. This careful approach taught me the significance of discipline and detail.

Before I touch the wood, I often sketch my ideas. Planning is crucial, as it helps me visualize the end product and anticipate obstacles. Once I start, the wood often guides my work. Sometimes, the material itself dictates the final form, leading to unexpected but rewarding outcomes.

Finding My Voice

As I continued creating, I found my voice changing as well. Working with wood helped me understand my artistic identity. I explored themes of nature, growth, and transformation—much like my personal journey through this craft.

With every piece I crafted, I poured my experiences, struggles, and triumphs into my work. I learned to appreciate the imperfections in the wood—knots and grains became essential parts of the story I wanted to tell. This celebration of flaws mirrored my own journey, showing me that growth often springs from embracing challenges.

The Community of Woodworkers

One of the most fulfilling aspects of woodworking has been the vibrant community I discovered. Connecting with fellow artists and craftsmen opened new doors for collaboration and inspiration. Sharing techniques and experiences significantly enriched my practice.

Attending workshops and exhibitions allowed me to learn from seasoned woodworkers. Each interaction provided insights that sharpened my skills. The camaraderie within this community is strong; we all share a genuine love for creating and pushing the boundaries of our art.

Junior Creating Three Dimensional Art

The Impact of Social Media

In today's digital landscape, social media plays a substantial role in my artistic journey. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have expanded my audience and connected me with fellow artists and art lovers across the globe.

The feedback from my online community has been invaluable. It encourages me to keep experimenting and striving for improvement. However, I also face the pressure to continuously produce and share. Whenever it feels overwhelming, I remind myself to remain true to my artistic vision.

Looking Ahead in My Artistic Journey

As I gaze towards the future, I'm excited about the opportunities awaiting me. Working with wood has unlocked new creative paths, and I can't wait to explore its limits. I dream of creating larger installations that merge wood with metal, glass, and other materials, crafting immersive experiences for viewers.

I also hope to share my passion for woodworking with others. Teaching workshops and mentoring aspiring artists is important to me. I believe in cultivating the next generation of creatives and fostering their unique journeys.

Embracing New Horizons

Breaking boundaries is vital in any artist's path. It takes courage, curiosity, and a willingness to face the unknown. My experience with wood has reshaped my artistic practice, allowing me to grow in ways I never thought possible.

As I continue to push my limits and explore new horizons, I'm continually reminded of my promises made as a full-time artist. I will never quit, I will stay disciplined, and I will consistently challenge myself.

Working with wood has profoundly changed how I create and deepened my understanding of myself as an artist. I encourage anyone feeling confined by their medium to take that leap of faith. Explore what lies beyond the frame; you may uncover incredible discoveries waiting just for you.

Why I Started Working With Wood