George A. Olsen, Jr. might be considered a “late blooming artist.” He had pursued other careers, including excavating—artistry with a bulldozer! In 2004 he began to seriously study lathe turned wood working. Numerous hours, classes and experiments later, he found a niche for his artwork in local art galleries and specialty shops. George’s turned work was selected by jurors of the 2008 National Small Works Exhibit at the Arkell Museum in Canajoharie and the 2008 Cooperstown Art National Exhibition, Cooperstown Regional Show and Wilber Mansion Show in Oneonta, NY in the sculpture and fine arts categories.

Many of the pieces are functional art. Bowls are typically finished with walnut oil so they may safely be used for food. Most bowls are turned of native species, and are reflective of the size and shape of original section of wood, some with natural edges. A number of bowls have been crafted with segmented pieces: sectors of light and dark woods are carefully placed and adhered together creating graphic patterns. Several have been purchased as gifts internationally as unique representations of fine art of the Northeastern United States.

Unique pieces are fashioned of green wood. These items were turned, and as they dried they continued to move creating a one-of-a-kind work with the final touch added by Mother Nature. Offset and Celtic goblets with captive rings are indicative of George’s artful skill and talent for design.

George has fashioned unique peppermills and salt-and-peppermills of his own design that have been popular wedding gifts. Each mill is beautiful in form and design to be enjoyed by gourmets and casual cooks near and far. Wooden pens are available in a wide variety of woods and his distinctive bottle stoppers are wonderful, practical presents.

Custom lathe-turned pieces have been created of reclaimed or carefully preserved lumber. One admirer, after seeing his work in a shop, asked George to turn cherry bowls from her father’s boards. Each piece was nearly uniform in size yet unique, to be used as a special remembrance of her Dad.

Although many of George's works are created spontaneously, he warmly welcomes commissioned works.

George is the proud father of three adults and enjoys the delight of being “Poppa” to six grandkids. He and his wife & partner Theresa live in Richmondville, NY. She is adept at adding suggestions and occasional embellishments to his work.

Read a great article about George and his work in THE MOUNTAIN EAGLE.

© 2008-2010 George A. Olsen, Jr., GTO Woodturning
335 West Richmondville Road, Richmondville, NY 12149 • 518 294 6579
Design: Joanna Bateman Design