Turning Competitions 2018, Private View & Reception
26th November 2018The Worshipful Company of Turners is one of the oldest Livery Companies tracing its history back to the 12th Century. 200 years later, Edward III decreed that 'wooden measures, as well for wine as for ale' should be made by 'turnours' with marks of their own - and so, amongst other things, the medieval turners established the English 'pint' as an official measure. Thank you! The Company's Royal Charter was granted in 1604 by James I providing something of a link to our own First Company, which received its Royal Charter from King James 15 years later.
The Turners hold turning competitions every two years in association with the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain, the Society of Ornamental Turners and the Association of Pole Lathe Turners and Greenwood Workers. They attract entries from turners of all ages and skill. A special feature this year was the Master's Open Competition which marked the 100th anniversary of the Armistice where woodturners were asked to create works which reflect their personal style, techniques and response to the 1918 Armistice and the 100th anniversary.
Based on what we saw at the Private View, the craft of turning in the UK is clearly in rude health. The array and quality of the work presented was as impressive as it was varied including pieces of exceptional skill. There was even an entry by the Master Turner, David Batchelor, in the amateur category. Being a man of Kent, his piece represented a Kentish oast house.