More than just a piece of wood, it’s a work of art
Each piece is handcrafted with care to bring a unique story to life.
About me.
After a rewarding career of almost 40 years in the Canadian Military, followed by roles in private engineering and municipal government, I finally returned to my woodworking roots and discovered a passion for woodturning upon retirement.
From the moment I took my first lesson, I was captivated by the rich colours, textures, and scents of wood. Woodturning became a relaxing and fulfilling hobby, providing me a chance to create unique, tangible pieces in a relatively short amount of time - quite a change from the slow pace of bureaucracy. Soon after, this newfound passion led to the creation of Bob Testa Woodart.
All my projects are handmade in my workshop in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. I craft a variety of pieces, from functional items such as wooden bowls, vases, goblets, and baby rattles to purely artistic creations. Each piece is carefully crafted with great attention to detail and to the form and finish, ensuring that each piece is both beautiful to the eye and pleasant to the touch. I often enhance the woodturnings with texturing, carving, or by embedding coloured epoxy or natural stone, such as turquoise.
I use only non-toxic, food-safe finishes, making my work both environmentally friendly and safe. I predominantly use a range of Canadian and North American wood species, along with sustainably sourced and produced exotic woods for accents. Wood is my material of choice due to its unique characteristics and natural variations in appearance and character, which provide endless possibilities for creativity.
If you have any questions, or have a specific commission in mind, feel free to get in touch with me. Please be sure to include any details, requirements, or project ideas in your message.
Unique sculptures as family heirlooms, works of art
Combining wood, brass and epoxy to create stunning art
Minimal surface sculpture
When math becomes art
Some of my most challenging and intriguing projects have been the most rewarding and enjoyable. They have, at times, pushed me to learn new techniques and approaches to woodturning. I love finding new and exciting ways of creating lasting pieces of art. Regardless of the challenge, I enjoy working with custom clients to help them realize their vision. Allow me to create the work of art that graces your tabletop or office, and becomes a family heirloom that is cherished for generations.
Everyday Items As Functional Keepsakes.
I enjoy bringing craftsmanship and artisan flare to each and every handcrafted piece. Some of my most memorable projects have brought delight in moments of grief and others a moment of reflection at a time of celebration. Regardless of the occasion I enjoy working with my custom clients to bring their visions to life. Want something off the shelf? I have a small selection of pieces in my collection that can be found HERE.
Unique, one of a kind, items of all types
Anything from specially designed urns and “Olympic Rings” votive candle holders to crazy baseball bats, bowls within bowls and uniquely embellished bowls and platters can be created out of a single solid piece of wood that is turned on multiple axes on a lathe. The varieties and options are almost endless. If you have a “quirky” or somewhat different design in mind, let me know. I’d be happy to talk with you about it!
