Tom Tungent

Woodworking for me began at a young age. In school I took every woodshop class I could. I continued as an adult and have been making projects in wood my entire life. My focus turned specifically to woodturning in 2002 and now that is my passion.

In the creative process, woodturning to me is similar to sculpting pottery, watching pieces emerge as wood is removed. The difference is that once the wood is removed you can’t reshape the piece except to make it smaller. Having studied ancient and classical pottery shapes I am usually drawn to the timeless classical shapes although I have created some modern pieces.

I enjoy teaching woodturning and it is as much fun for me as my students. I have taught people from eight years old to seventy. I have demonstrated woodturning professionally, at art shows and for the Arizona Woodturner's Association. I have participated in instructing students with the Carolina Mountain Woodturner's’ teaching program called the Turning Learning Center. I have written some articles which have been published in wood and woodturning magazines.

I primarily use woods local to Arizona that have interesting grain and pattern compositions. If I have a favorite wood it would have to be Mesquite. Close behind on that list are Acacia, Olive and African Sumac.

I try to incorporate the natural beauty of each piece’s unique, innate color characteristics. Recycling is an important part of my work, so I use wood that is going to landfills and give it new purpose. I do not use wood that is on an endangered species list. When using embellishments I do so with recycled materials such as used coffee grounds and brass shavings left over from making keys.

The lathes I currently own are a Powermatic 3520 and a JET Mini which I use for my demonstrations. Participating in Woodturner's Resource has been instrumental in expanding my technique and creativity. It is another way for me to learn and share what I have learned.

I am married, have three sons and a grandson. God has blessed me with time and ability to share woodturning with others. I also use woodturning as a way to mentor kids who haven’t had the best opportunities.

Tom Tunget
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1

Acacia Bark Vase
The bark split in this piece has a counter twist as it goes to the bottom.

2

Acacia Candlestick Trio with captive rings
7 1/2", 8 1/2", 9 1/2" tall. This is my nod to precision woodturning. When lined up and spaced evenly all the elements line up and appear as one.

3

Acacia Natural Edge Bowl
I like to make these type of bowls. Reminds me of potato chips!

4

Acacia Vase
This is my favorite shape for a vase. The grain flows like a waterfall over the edge

5

African Sumac Bowl
This very simple shape best displays the color and grain.

6

African Sumac Hollowform
A Southwestern style form with deep red colors and striking grain.

7

Apple Bowl
Curving the lip inward allows for easier removal of the contents, like candy.

8

Banksia Pod Winged Form
Not easy forms to complete but worth the efforts and very intriguing with the pod shapes

9

Carob Hollowform
A nice form to hold and the quilting of the grain makes it beautiful.

10

Cherry Burl Hollowform
This natural edge opening is in contrast to the smooth flow over the shoulder.

11

Chilean Mesquite Bowl
At 10 1/2" wide This bowl is great for popcorn and the undercut lip helps in getting good handfuls..

12

Mediterranean Olive Box
The striking grain of the Olive is set off by the darker steak of coffee ground fill.