Ramsey moved from California to Kentucky “to get out of the ‘rat race’” and lived on a houseboat on Lake Cumberland. After a few very cold winters, “I discovered that there is not much R-value in a piece of plywood so I moved out of the houseboat and into my house.”

With limited outdoor activity in the winter months, Chris felt he needed a hobby that would help pass the time until summer returned. In 1998 his identical twin brother, David, presented him with a birthday gift, a small “starter” lathe, which sparked his interest. He now had the tool that, for three years in high school, he was forbidden to touch, and he soon became absorbed with the turning process. “After I bought a Oneway I spent every free moment in the shop. I was addicted.”

At that time, he owned a communications company (American Network Cable) which required that he spend many weekends and late nights away from his family. He would turn for hours at the lathe during the weekdays and found a great deal of enjoyment while turning.

He says, “In 2000 I made the decision that money was not everything and, with my gallery sales on a steady increase, made the jump from an unhappy owner of a company to a much happier full-time woodturner” a move he has never regretted.

Chris says of one aspect of turning, “Although I was most interested in turning wooden hats early in my career, it was not as fulfilling because you know exactly what the shape is going to be before you begin turning. The only real surprise is what the wood grain will offer. I came to particularly enjoy turning fresh cut or ‘green’ thin-wall natural edge pieces. To relax the mind and allow the creative process of exploring shapes, designs and new possibilities previously envisioned is extremely rewarding. There is a wonderful surprise every time.”

Ramsey’s work can be found in numerous galleries, craft shops, in permanent collections of museums and private collections. He has exhibited in the United States, the Far East and Europe.

Ramsey is a popular and much-sought-after demonstrator and leads workshops for turning clubs and has been featured at various regional symposiums. He welcomes the opportunity to share his knowledge and skills with others. He is a member of the American Association of Woodturners, The Southern Highlands Craft Guild and the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program.

To view more of Chris Ramsey’s work, please visit his website at http://www.knot-head.com and he welcomes emails at artist@knot-head.com.