About.
Wood Carving London is a partnership between Jim Patrick and Tom Buchanan, specialising in traditional and contemporary wood carving for a whole manner of applications from restoration and reproduction to bespoke art pieces.
The pair met while studying Historic Wood Carving and Gilding at City & Guilds of London Art School, and now share a workshop in charming Peacock Yard in south London. Grinling Gibbons scholars, the pair absorbed not only a variety of practical skills, but a wide knowledge of western art history. Trained in technical drawing and modelling from life, traditional moulding and casting techniques, reproduction carving in numerous styles and timbers, gilding and lettering, the team is fully equipped for all manner of projects.
They both share a passion for fine craftsmanship and the tradition of woodworking, and each bring their own particular strengths to the team.
Jim’s journey to wood carving came from a strong foundation in drawing and design. Having gained a degree in illustration from Camberwell College of Arts in 2011, Jim spent four years as a scenic artist and prop-maker, acquiring a diverse range of skills from poly-carving to complex mould-making. It was here that his passion for sculpting took hold, and the decision to retrain and study the traditional skills of a historic craftsman. With his diverse skill-set and a compulsive attention to detail, Jim takes great pride in the continued practise of this heritage craft while bringing a contemporary focus.
Tom has a degree in ornamental wood carving and gilding. He has over 20 years experience in woodworking having managed his own company fabricating bespoke flooring and furniture. More recently he decided to challenge his skill set and indulge his passion, enrolling at City & Guilds London Art School where he secured notable commissions and received recognition in the Grinling Gibbons Emerging Carvers Competition. He teaches carving at the National Saturday Club, is an ambassador for the Carhartt clothing company, and holds an ongoing artist residency with a boutique gallery in the Cotswolds that showcases and sells his work.