Josh Rasch

I create sculptural woodturned pieces that explore the contrast between natural materials and unexpected elements. My work begins with wood—often pieces with unusual grain, voids, bark inclusions, or other imperfections that give each form its own character. Rather than trying to hide those features, I use them as a starting point for the design. Epoxy allows me to take that idea further, combining wood with color, texture, and materials you wouldn’t normally associate with woodturning. Depending on the piece, that might include denim, yarn, pine cones, walnut or butternut shells, dried flowers, or other materials that catch my interest. I also create all-wood pieces where the grain, natural edge, surface treatment, or form becomes the focus. Much of my inspiration comes from pottery and sculptural vessel forms, but the process is driven by experimentation. I enjoy finding ways to combine traditional woodturning with contemporary materials and techniques to create one-of-a-kind decorative pieces that highlight both the natural character of the wood and the unexpected possibilities of what can be turned on a lathe.