Philip Moulthrop

Philip Moulthrop initially studied Law before deciding to follow in his father Ed Moulthrop's footsteps and became a turned wood artist. His father is a significant maker from the first generation turners in the US. These early makers left a rich inheritance of innovative design and technical expertise, which helped develop the more personal languages of the intermixed styles of today's American woodturners.

Moulthrop’s ‘Bundled Mosaic’ is a signature vessel form by the artist. These vessels are famous for the pioneering composite technique used when making them and are exquisitely patterned and rich in dramatic colour. The ends of wood are bundled together, suspended in resin and then turned on the lathe. As in all of Moulthrop’s work, his process results in stunning and vivid surface qualities. Curator Janice Blackburn notes that Moulthrop ‘likes to use a wide variety of wood types. His ‘turnings’ are simple shapes, almost painterly lines that bring out the grain and surface patterns reminiscent of the subtle decorative effects of Murano Glass.’

Moulthrop substantiates Blackburn’s observations, by commenting that ‘I think of my woodturning as a way to reveal the beauty and texture which is inherent in the wood. The wood that I use, though not considered to be exotic, possesses a richness in the grain and figure which is too often overlooked. I create pieces using simple shapes and forms, which best display the colours and patterns inherent in the wood. Smooth curved surfaces, the lack of carving, and surface embellishments accentuate the natural wood rather than competing with it.’

Moulthrop lives and works in Georgia, U.S.A. He is a leading International wood artist and his work is included in the Museum of Art and Design, New York; The White House Collection of American Craft, Washington; High Museum of Art, Atlanta; The Olympic Museum, Switzerland; Craft and Folk Art Museum, Los Angeles; the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington; The American Craft Museum, New York and Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles.

Philip Moulthrop's e-catalogue of available works including prices