Richmond craftsman takes second place

In the National Woodworkers Association annual competition, Richmond-based craftsman Alwyn Goodwin showcased his impressive skills, earning a well-deserved second place in the Wall Art Category.

The online competition attracts both amateur and professional woodworkers from across New Zealand, with many of the pieces available for online purchase afterward.

Alwyn’s entry, ‘Erosion: The Rift Fault Line,’ draws inspiration from the recent dry summer, where cracked soils mirror the region’s geological struggles, as well as reflecting on the impact of earthquakes and the massive Alpine Fault.

The piece captures the tension between nature’s beauty and vulnerability and makes a powerful statement about the interplay of drought and tectonic activity.

Hand-carved over 50 hours from reclaimed cedar, the piece beautifully highlights the wood’s natural patterns and colours by using various wax finishes.

“This year saw record entries, with over 200 submissions across all categories, I was very happy to receive second place in the Wall Art Category,” Alwyn notes.

In his shed, surrounded by pear, elm, macrocarpa, and cedar, he shares the stories of each piece, honouring their past while creating new art.

“I only use reclaimed wood; I like to give it another life,” he adds.

Alwyn’s journey into woodworking began with a home renovation that sparked him to repurpose an old piece of Douglas fir.

With no prior experience or family background in woodworking, he boldly set out to create a kitchen table, later using offcuts to experiment with decorative wall art.

This process not only transformed the wood but also ignited a passion for craftsmanship that blends his culinary creativity as an employed chef with his newfound woodworking artistry.

“I enjoy the process of woodworking,” he says.

“The problem-solving and thought that goes into a piece. You get an idea in your head and give it a go and watch the evolution of the idea.”

Alwyn encourages aspiring woodworkers to dive in.

“You don’t need fancy tools. Just give it a go and see where it leads you.”