Last week Sculpture students were treated to an on-campus workshop with members of the Gulf Coast Woodturners Association (GCWA). The volunteer group transformed the rotunda of Hildebrand Athletic Center into a temporary woodshop, complete with ten lathes, and guided participants in crafting custom ballpoint pens. Students acquired new skills, created a unique product all their own, and were inspired by the generosity and passion of their instructors.
The workshop began with each student working one-on-one on a lathe with a woodturner to shape two wood blocks (or “blanks”) into the pen’s barrel and cap. Students were encouraged to consider both the aesthetics and ergonomics of their designs. They were also invited to add decorative touches, like using a wire to burn decorative bands into the wood. The creative freedom was well-received. Sophie Santana ’28 shared afterward, “I loved being able to customize my pen!”
After the wood pieces were shaped, sanded, and polished, they were assembled into a pen using a spring-loaded press, and an ink cartridge was inserted. “It was really awesome to see it all come together,” said Sofia Stubinski ’28. The completed project gave students a sense of pride. Reid Johnson ’25 commented, “I am excited to use a pen for my classes that I know I made.”
In addition to making a pen, students formed personal connections. “My favorite part was talking to my instructor about his experience in woodworking,” reflected Will Giesler ’26. Similarly, Sasha Reed ’27 “liked learning about my instructor. He told me that he gives his woodturnings as Christmas gifts.” In addition to describing their work, the woodturners brought some of their projects and set up a display that showed the possibilities for the craft.
Sculpture teacher Lauren Cunningham organized the workshop to give her students a hands-on introduction to woodturning. “I was excited for students to get a taste of this art form with the GCWA members. They are knowledgeable, patient teachers, and so enthusiastic about their craft.” Indeed, the woodturners’ enthusiasm proved to be contagious. Brandon Mulvehill ’26 remarked, “Woodturning is very addicting, since it is so satisfying to do. This experience has made me want to turn wood again!”