FRANCISCO CLEMENTE

Francisco Clemente, born and raised in Huelva, Spain, traveled throughout Europe before he settled in the continental United States. Becoming a general contractor, he was able to begin working with his hands and helped build many custom houses in Las Vegas. After a successful vacation to Hawaii, he made it his new home.

His progression from general contractor to artist was a natural one. Following a client’s request for round posts for a four poster bed, he purchased a book on woodturning, a lathe, and taught himself new techniques. He began creating candle holders, then turned boxes that he would sell at local craft fairs, catching the attention of local galleries.

Always challenging himself to engage the media in different ways, he began stepping away from the confines of round forms and incorporated carving into his work. “The wood guides you—tells you what form it wants to be,” says Francisco. He appreciates the freedom that creating an abstract form provides, utilizing every piece of wood, every scrap, capturing the innate beauty and essence of Hawaii’s woods.

Francisco allows the logs to season and dry—often for years—which enables the colors and spalting to develop. He enjoys the challenge of working with different species of wood to create form and complements each with a finish that best suits the piece. Recently, Francisco began experimenting with surface textures, dyes, and color to bring life to plainly colored woods. “I am always looking for new or different ways to do my work—always in search of the ultimate expression,” says Francisco.

Follow Francisco on Facebook: facebook.com/fcwoodturning