From Pandemic Pivot to Sculptural Wood Art: How Oliver Chalk Built a Self Taught Wood Turning Career

Robin Johnson speaks with Oliver Chalk, a self taught wood turner who rebuilt his career during the pandemic by following curiosity rather than a fixed plan. Starting with climbing holds and basic tools, Oliver moved into large scale sculptural woodwork, developing his own techniques through repetition and failure. He explains why surface, texture, and emotional response drive his work, how investing in the right tools changed his trajectory, and why process matters more than outcome when building a creative career.Key Topics CoveredLearning wood turning without formal trainingBuilding skill through experimentation and repetitionImportance of investing in professional tools and maintaining themDeveloping a recognisable style through surface and textureWorking with large scale timber and physical challengesUsing natural materials for sustainability and longevityCreative philosophy focused on process and self expressionBalancing risk, safety, and creativity in the workshopWhy failure drives progress and skill developmentEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 Introduction to Oliver Chalk and his wood turning work00:46 Pandemic career shift and early experimentation02:11 Learning wood turning through trial and error06:57 Discovering surface texture and creative direction09:30 Investing in tools and committing to the craft10:10 Working with large scale timber and safety awareness18:09 Moving from turning to sculptural carving techniques22:49 Creative philosophy and finding purpose through making29:21 Creativity as problem solving and pushing limits34:23 Process over product and emotional connection to work39:27 Exhibitions, galleries, and building a career53:27 Advice on failure and continuous improvement