What is this?

Throughout the month of January, Artisan Crafts Month, I will be posting interviews with artisans who have made a difference on dA either through their own artisan crafts, or the effort they put into the community (and it's usually a combination of the two!)

This is the interview with ^Myana, Woodworking expert.

First, a little about ^Myana.

Having been taught at one of Sweden's finest school in cabinetmaking, Myana has been a driving force in the woodworking world. She has been doing woodworking for about 7 years, and over those years she has discovered that you should always take pride in what you create.

The Interview

Life on dA.

Q: How has your artwork changed since you joined dA?

A: I can't really say that my woodwork has changed that much. I submit either my own woodwork, which is designed and done by me, or I submit what I do for my job, designed by an architect.
Although, I've been photographing a lot more since I've joined dA and I try to improve my skills on that field.


Q: Being a gallery director for Artisan Crafts, has your view of Artisan Crafts changed? How so?

A: Just in more awe of all the talent out there!


Q: How have you seen Artisan Crafts grow since you joined dA?

A: Hell yeah! It has grown tremendosly since I joined - from beeing almost non existant to having two GD:s to keep track of things in an ever growing artisan crafts community. More artisans, more features, more contests, more clubs, more tutorials, we've even got our own forum now!!


Q: What AC projects are you involved with on dA?

A: As a Gallery Director I feature DD's, post news and try to pimp AC as much as I can. I handle miscats, plan new events, try to help and educate what belongs in the gallery and what doesn't. I try to listen to the community what they want, try to get more people involved and make the community thrive.

I also started *ArtisanCraft - a club for all artisans two years ago. When I became Gallery Director I had to step down from the admin role, but I'm still staff there.

Life through ART.

Q: When did you start woodworking?

A: About seven years ago


Q: How has your style changed from when you started, to where you are now?

A: I'm better?!
It's hard for me to tell exactly how or if it even has changed! I've always wanted to build functional furnitures that have a sleek/minimal design.


Q: What techniques do you use in creating your artwork?

A: oh my... sawing, veneering, routing, planing, sanding, glueing and lots and lots more, but those are the only english word I know!!


Q: Are there any tips you can share regarding Woodworking?

A: jeez, I'm guessing you mean some general tips?
First, craft safe, learn how to use tools and machines.
Learn how to sharpen your knife and cissels, cutting in wood with dull tools isn't fun at all!
If you really want to learn woodwork - educate yourself! Either by reading or attending some evening course.

For specific tips, just contact me and I'll be glad to try to help out!


Q: What is the one fundamental thing you keep in mind when creating your artwork?

A: I want to build furnitures that will last lifetimes - both in design and in craftmanship.


Q: Where do you draw inspiration for your woodworking pieces?

A: Everything and nothing.

The Future.

Q: What do you think the future is for Artisan Crafts on dA?

A: Kick ass! The community will keep on growing and creating wonderful, inspiring, awesome crafts to share with each other.


Q: What would you like to see in the future for Artisan Crafts?

A: Helpful artisans who care about the community.


Q: What are your goals for the future through your artwork?

A: I have dreams of one day selling my own furnitures, for someone to buy both my design and craftmanship.

Closing thoughts.

Q: Are there any last thoughts you would like to say here?

A: Keep on crafting! Get involved! Have fun!
And don't hesitate to contact me about anything!!


Q: And finally, which Tutorials would you recommend for other woodworking artists to use?

A: I haven't seen many woodworking tutorials on AC and none that I have tried for myself and can recommend.






Thank you for taking the time to read this interview with ^Myana, and a special thank you to her for participating! Please stay tuned for more!