Will Pratt Sculptural Woodturning

William Pratt born and raised in Zimbabwe was apprenticed as a cabinet maker in fine furniture, he moved to NZ in 1989.

Will has always been passionate about woodturning and now prefers to work only with wet wood, specifically English Oak in NZ.

Trees that have fallen in storms, or been cut down for land development, many over 100 years old and are an important part of the history of Auckland.

Using only chainsaws, a lathe and a handful of chisels and tools William skilfully turns large raw pieces into refined vessels. The pieces are then put aside to dry, this is the time they release the stresses and tension of a century of growth resulting in unexpected movement and distortions, that's the magic that Will waits for as the tree decides it final form. He then adds texture through a range of processes and finishes, and the final result are pieces that are both beautifully tactile and leathery to the touch, this defies all logic of where they began.

Williams studio will showcase the transition between the unprocessed Oak, a vessel in progress & a selection of completed works for the Open studio Kaipatiki weekend.

Demonstration of your practice, View of works in progress, Work for sale.

Artist Info

Dates
Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 November 2026

Address
19 Verran Road
Birkenhead

Hidden down a driveway, right-of-way or shared access

Parking
Street Parking Available.

Accessibility
Not wheelchair Accessible
Steep driveway
Steps to entry

Family-friendly

Payment Options
Cash, Bank transfer

Contact Details
williambo.wr@gmail.com

Socials
Instagram