Nestled in the beautiful New England town of Walcha, Wood We Create is a unique woodturning gallery where creativity, craftsmanship and the natural beauty of Australian timber come together.
Established in 2013 by David and Fiona Barden, the gallery began on the Coffs Coast before relocating to Walcha. Today, it showcases David’s one-of-a-kind wood turned and carved creations, alongside selected works from other local artists.
David’s connection with timber began at just 10 years of age. His natural talent for woodwork developed throughout high school before leading him into a career in engineering patternmaking, a highly precise trade involving the creation of timber patterns and models. The skills and attention to detail developed through his trade later became the foundation for his professional woodturning career.
Around 80 per cent of the Wood We Create range is handcrafted on-site by David, with much of the work made from locally sourced and salvaged Australian timber. Rather than hiding the natural characteristics of each piece, David works with the individual grain, colour, texture and character of the timber to create practical homewares, distinctive artworks and sculptural pieces.
From beautifully crafted kitchen and household items to artistic creations designed to be treasured for generations, each piece is genuinely individual. The gallery also offers made-to-order work, allowing customers to collaborate with David to create something specifically suited to their needs or ideas.
A visit to Wood We Create is about more than simply browsing a gallery. Visitors can meet the artist, discover the stories behind the timber and gain an insight into the traditional skills and creative process involved in woodturning.
The gallery also features works from other local artists, including paintings, glass art and woollen and felted lampshades. An online store provides another way to explore the collection.
Wood We Create offers a memorable opportunity to discover handmade Australian timber pieces with a story of their own.
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