Thread: recession or what

Wow, sh.t, think I might pump a few out and put on line, that is a whole lot better than I have seen anywhere else much.

Even if you do not sell, it is a way to get your work and your name in front of a potential market. It is a bit shocking to see prices of the big name turners' work.

Amazing classified as Art no taxes to pay from sales so pure profit......although if in a gallery anywhere 30% commission to 100/300% tagged on top is the norm.

See I was right there is money to be made from woodturning, just not in Australia

Originally Posted by China

See I was right there is money to be made from woodturning, just not in Australia

Yuo're not Wrong Mate.
Cheers Tony.

...believe me guys, it's the same in America a tough racket in which to do turning as a living.

..

.believe me guys, it's the same in America a tough racket in which to do turning as a living.

I believe you Ed, but down under we don't have public appreciation of turned wooden product as art. There would very few if any real collectors and probably no museums of art getting involved.

What you might get for a piece in the US of A would probably sell here for far less maybe cover cost of materials etc very little consideration is given for time and or design.

Proportionately here I would say we have fewer pro turners and most would gain their living from overseas work or commissions

After years driving tours and visiting many a gallery I agree with Hughie.
Although there are some galleries now taking more wood art on mostly sculpture such as up on the Mid North Coast of NSW (underfoot's recent/current exhibition) some specialised wood turners more from Uni Arts or industrial degree backgrounds.

Originally Posted by China

See I was right there is money to be made from woodturning, just not in Australia

Very hard to got those prices in NZ as well
Robbie

Who said money grows on trees? its the sweat and craftsmanship that costs . 10 cents Bob

Right Hughie...I get the point your making. Over the years the battle was getting the public educated as to just what goes into making a bowl or hollow vessel. The sticker price was always a shock, then that's the time to let the prospective buyer know that it's not just a wooden bowl, but also all the blood, sweat, and tears that go into the piece...you know, the 10% inspiration - 90% perspiration bit.

Its generally said here that we are 20 years behind the USA .But I am encouraged by Issatrees success any a country venue, over $1000 for the days takings.

I have had offers from furniture stores to show and sell as part of their display. This often more about their display than actively trying sell my stuff.
The up side the commission is often small 20-30% as opposed to galleries who often want 50% or more. Although this is anecdotal on my part, never got around to dropping into one.

You do have a bunch of great turners in Australia and NZ. They frequently post on the WoW site. Dunno if they are making any $$, but are doing beautiful work. My sales in Wimberley, Texas just about cover the cost of sandpaper and the odd can of lacquer.

Originally Posted by wheelinround

Amazing classified as Art no taxes to pay from sales so pure profit......although if in a gallery anywhere 30% commission to 100/300% tagged on top is the norm.

In Australia you have a $55,000 tax free bracket before you have to pay tax. Art isn't tax free, I'm afraid.