jon minerich - wood turner

I have always enjoyed wood working since my introduction to the craft in junior high school. While I maintained my interest over the years, family and work kept me from having the time to create unique objects from wood. As I approached retirement in 2014, I finally found the time to enjoy my interest and woodturning became my hobby. Now it has become my obsession.

Woodturning is an ancient profession that has been around for over 6000 years! Some older wood turned objects have been found in the ancient pyramids in Egypt. Traditionally, the skill of making beautiful shapes from wood, has been handed down from Master to Apprentice. While formal apprenticeship programs aren’t common in the US any more, several years ago the American Association of Woodturners (AAW) was formed to fill this void by conducting seminars, classes, and conferences. I became a member and active participant. Today, I am the President of the Lighthouse Woodturners, which is the local AAW chapter serving the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. My goal is to pass on this ancient tradition to others.

Generally I produce one-of-a kind, turned, colored and textured wood art. I enjoy producing art based on classic designs. That said, exploring different techniques, shapes, colors, and ideas have turned this hobby into an obsession for me. As a young man, I grew up in the wilderness of Northern Minnesota, so my love of nature and a clean environment has been with me ever since I can remember. Today, I try to “do my part” by using repurposed wood whenever possible in all of my projects. On any given day, you may find me scrounging construction sites, landfills designated for trees, or stopping by homes asking for wood from storm damaged trees. Some of the wood I have found, is over 100 years old! As a result, my final projects may not be perfect, because the wood I use contains natural flaws. However, I believe these flaws add to the natural beauty of each piece.

I certainly hope that you enjoy looking at the pieces I have produced. Perhaps you will choose a piece to bring home and enjoy. If so, I and the many generations of ancient woodturners that have come before me, thank you!