Graham Hall

My early life was misspent in manufacturing management and engineering, with an international twist that took its toll on my health and distanced me from doing more fulfilling things.

Thankfully a new way opened when I moved to the Isle of Man more than 20 years ago and I embarked on a more rewarding path. Although I trained as an engineer, my real interest was in design and I began to work in wood.

Trees are phenomenal things, they have a true presence and enrich our lives. To make things from fallen trees is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate all that has been given.

I work on a lathe and use a wide range of carpentry and carving techniques along with pyrography, shot-blasting and colouring in order to get as wide a range of effects and finishes as I can.

I think that many people get a feeling of satisfaction and calm when they touch, feel or smell wood. To make things that are kept and treasured by others is one of the greatest gifts.