Unearthed sculptures are a collaboration between the artist and salvaged wood, leaning into the raw, natural details as a source of inspiration. Embracing the ‘imperfect’ to create forms that are more captivating, tactile, and real. Each piece is handcrafted using free-flow carving techniques, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Come ride the waves with me and see where this journey leads - possibilities are endless, direction limitless, and evolution unknown.
Each piece is handcrafted using free-flow carving techniques, this particular piece has been carved using salvaged Elm wood.
Carved from salvaged Japanese Red Cedar, these three sculptures are a play on scale forms to showcase the large logs they were carved from.
Free flowing caving textures ranging from raw to refined.
Bowtell finds inspiration in the wibbly-wobbly, flawed beauty of salvaged wood - each piece holding its own story.
Bowtell embraces the ‘imperfect’ to create forms that are more captivating, tactile, and real.
Reflections from the deep - inspired by the refraction of light.
How did you get into working with wood? Back in 2007, during my VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education), I had the chance to enroll in the Design & Technology elective. The enthusiasm of one particular teacher - especially their encouragement to get more women involved in the craft was inspiring, and it also sounded like fun! Even though I had no experience with tools or machinery (and they seemed rather terrifying), I’ve always been drawn to the creative side of life. It wasn’t long before the workshop became my favorite space. What inspires your creations? Anything and everything. I find inspiration in the wibbly-wobbly, flawed beauty of salvaged wood - each piece holding its own story. I aim to capture energy and emotion while honoring the land and trees. Experimenting with new tools and exploring their versatility excites me, as does creating in unconventional ways that highlight natural imperfections and textures. Sometimes, a random idea takes hold - especially when procrastinating something important - and those moments often lead to my best work. I love testing different finishing techniques across various timber species and making things I need or want rather than buying them. The intended setting of a piece, whether indoors or in an outdoor landscape, also influences my creative direction. Mistakes play a crucial role in my process - solving the problem of an accidental chunk removal can lead to unexpected, often better, results. And if not? Well, there’s always the firewood pile! Many of my projects evolve organically, making “winging it” one of my favorite creative methods. What would you tell your younger self starting out on your artistic journey? Don’t overthink it. Stop being a perfectionist. Trust your instincts. Enjoy the process. What is your favourite Arbortech tool and why? The Mini Carver! It carves so smoothly and ergonomically works better for me. Having the smaller attachment makes it easier to maneuver, and being lighter overall means I can carve for longer - at least until my fingers go numb and my wrists feel broken. (To be fair, I’ve been known to do 16-hour days when I’m in the zone.) I also love how the newer version features a push button at the back, eliminating the need for a screwdriver when switching from the carbide cutter to sanding discs or changing grits. A small change, but a big difference!
If you were a type of wood what would you be and why? Is this a trick question?! There are way too many variables to pick just one!! I have genuinely really tried to decide, but alas it has not been successful!
To learn more about Liz Bowtell, follow the links below.