Craig Lossing

“It is my challenge to find in each piece of wood, its unique pattern and exquisiteness given to it by nature, to enhance it, and ultimately to create a harmony between its intrinsic beauty and my human effots.” Craig Lossing

Medium: Wood

Method of Production: Woodturning A solid block of wood is mounted on a machine called a lathe which spins the wood. Hand-held tools are then used to shape the wood into the desired form. Pieces are then sanded and sealed with either an oil or wax finish. All work is completed solely by Craig.

Materials: Wood Craig utilizes wood from all over the world – Africa, India, Yucatan Peninsula, South America, etc. Each piece is selected for its outstanding color, grain pattern or iridescence. He especially enjoys using burls – the gnarly growths on the side of trees which contain a swirling eye pattern.

Educational Statement: The basic form of open faceplate (not spindle) woodturning is a bowl. A well made bowl will have a consistent wall thickness and no warping or cracks. Vases and containers are hollowed out from the small opening at the top using bent tools – Craig is essentially working blind. Hollow forms with side openings are the most difficult to accomplish as the tool could catch on the opening at any turn and be destroyed. Extremely thin or long pieces or components also require great skill. Some woods are toxic and need special care to work with them.

Craig Lossing is a professional woodturner whose award-winning work is sought after by fine galleries and knowledgeable collectors. His creations range from organix forms and visionary vessels to whimsical toys and functional objects. He is a recognized Master in his medium and offers his work to the public through acclaimed juried art fairs and select prestigious galleries. His work has been featured in numerous gallery showings and international arts publications. Craig shares his vast knowledgeable and creative techniques with others through hands-on workshops and lectures, and by writing “how-to” articles for national magazines.

Born and raised in Minnesota, Craig was naturally gifted with artistic talent and continued his studies in art at the University of Minnesota as well as the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. After claiming woodturning as his artistic means of self-expression, within a few years he mastered the medium and since 1985 has been a full-time self-supporting artist. Craig resides with his wife and three children in Lino Lakes, Minnesota.