The 2024 Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize was an exceptional year for entries. Not only did the competition attract the most entries to date, many new entrants courageously entered the prize for the very first time.
This year, the winning piece under the ‘Sculpture’ category was ‘Flow’ by Keith Savage. Keith is in the early stages of his woodworking career, so taking out first place in one of the prize categories was a meaningful achievement for the up and coming woodworker.
‘Flow’ elegantly captures the fluidity of a wooden ribbon winding into a bowl, only to be effortlessly released and drawn back into the form, embodying a seamless flow of movement and harmony.
The piece was carved from a single block of Australian Red Cedar, and was crafted in a way that intended it to look as though it had been “bent” or “formed”.
We took some time to speak with Keith about his winning piece and how he got into woodworking below.
Keith Savage with his sculpture ‘Flow’ at the 2024 Maleny Wood Expo
Tell us a little bit about your journey into woodworking and where you are at now in your practice?
I’ve always wanted to take up something to do with woodworking as a hobby – especially with an eye towards retirement. One day, I stumbled across Robert Howard’s website and was immediately captivated by his sculptures. I tried to sign up for a spot on one his weekly classes but they were all full, it was only a couple of years later when COVID struck and some interstate students had to drop out that I managed to get a spot – one silver lining of the lockdown.
So, since August 2020 I’ve been attending Roberts’ classes weekly but I still feel like a beginner. There’s just so much to explore and learn about this craft. Thankfully, I’m in great hands, and I’ve still got a few years to go before retirement to build up my skills (and tools!!).
Tell us a bit about how you work with sustainable materials, how you source these, and what inspired you to choose the timber that you did as part of the 2024 competition.
For the 2024 competition, I chose my favourite timber – Australian Red Cedar – it’s a beautiful timber to carve, with a stunning figure that never fails to impress. The piece I used came from a storm damaged tree which was over 600 years old and had been stored by the farmer for over 3 decades.
I was drawn to the history and character of this timber – its age, its journey, and its natural beauty. It felt like the perfect material for this project, connecting my work to the environment and its story.
How did it feel to be the winner under the ‘Sculpture’ category?
I was incredibly honoured to be shortlisted as a finalist and have the opportunity to showcase my work at the expo.
Winning first prize in my category was even more rewarding – it felt like a meaningful affirmation that all the time and effort I’ve invested into carving is leading me in the right direction.
Are you working on any exciting projects at the moment?
I’m still very much in the early stages of my woodworking journey and constantly experimenting with new techniques.
Since this year’s win I’ve tried my hand at joinery and cabinet making, while continuing to integrate carving into the process (you can check out some photos on Instagram).
I’ve also recently finished making a walking stick for my fathers 80th birthday which was a very special and personal project for myself.
How can people get in touch with you, or follow your work?
People can find me on Instagram
Entries now open for the 2025 Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize
Thinking of entering a special piece to showcase your skill and unique expression?
Entries are currently open for the 2025 Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize.
This year’s theme is ‘Whimsy in Wood’ where creativity knows no bounds!
For more information visit the link below
The Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize is proudly sponsored by Sunshine Coast Council
The 2024 ‘Sculpture’ category was sponsored by Queensland Water and Land Carers and Barung Landcare
The Maleny Wood Expo is a proud initiative of Barung Landcare