Turning Competitions 2014

John Edwards receiving his first prize from the Lord Mayor Fiona Woolf, and the Master Col John Bridgeman

From the artistic to the incredible, the complex to the classic, The Turners Company held a unique one day exhibition, combining entries to the 2014 competitions of the Turners’ Company with curated collections of contemporary and historical woodturning.

There were around 200 items on display, making the exhibition one of the largest presentations of the ‘art and craft’ of woodturning ever held in London.

The curated display of contemporary works contained one exceptional piece from each of 25 leading UK and international woodturners.  Many pieces featured techniques such as painting, piercing, carving and pyrography.

To celebrate the election of Honorary Liveryman Turner, Alderman Fiona Woolf, as Lord Mayor of London, the Open Competition was held in her honour.  The theme was ‘The Square Mile’s energy to transform lives’, and reflected Fiona’s belief that the City of London has the energy and talent for innovation to meet the momentous challenges that face society.  It attracted some extraordinary and innovative entries.

The historical display was curated by the collector Stuart King, reflecting his interest in traditional and rural crafts.  The exhibits included both rare and domestic items, each the result of specialist knowledge and expertise.

The Competitions and Exhibitions were held in Apothecaries’ Hall, one of the oldest and most impressive Livery Halls in the City of London, dating back to 1672.

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