Jo Burton Woodcarver

“Following a 35 year career in teaching I  left to become an sculptor. I had a life time love of this art form, and whilst I was teaching I studied woodcarving with an experienced carver called John. Once the decision was made to take up art professionally I  went on to train with internationally renowned master woodcarver Michael Painter.

I have a love for the unique warmth and character of carved wood, and have a passion for bringing out its natural beauty. Since then I have gained experience through completing a wide variety of traditional and contemporary woodcarvings and sculptures including signs, relief pieces, traditional woodcarving, I am happiest working on contemporary three dimensional sculptures.

I find inspiration in the natural world, emotions, British and Maori art, and I increasingly combine my ideas about these to produce my own unique, original pieces of contemporary sculpture.

My  sculptural works are hand carved using traditional techniques. I work in a wide variety of sustainably sources and repurposed woods such as lime, beech, yew and cherry. Works are finished with Danish oil and Beeswax to enhance the grain and bring out the depth of the natural colour of the wood. As such my collection is both beautiful and ecologically sound.

I have signs in local parks and gardens, and have sold my work in a number of local shops including The Barn in Heswall, Sea Grass in West Kirby, Stacks in West Kirby and have exhibited with Oxton Artists at the Williamson Art Gallery, Tate Aisle Gallery and with Wirral Open Studio Tour. I accept commissions and have completed a number over the years.

I am passionate about sharing traditional woodcarving techniques and I teach woodcarving to individuals or small groups from my workshop in Heswall.”

Jo will be based at the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum on the 1st of June from 10am until 4pm.