Meet Greg Gallegos

Today we’d like to introduce you to Greg Gallegos.  

Hi Greg, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
In 2008 I left my job at AT & T to pursue turning full time. I had always had a passion for turning and had bought a lathe and was doing it as a hobby when I decided to make the leap and go into business for myself. It was one of the best things I have ever done. My love for wood turning, my creativity really took off. I was experimenting with different embellishment techniques, turning different shapes, and networking with some of the people that I had looked up to for so long. I did small trade shows at first, got my website going, and started getting my work out there. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There have been some struggles along the way. Going into business for myself and pursuing turning full-time meant I never took a break, which I love but also know breaks are much needed. When I started full-time, my children were younger so it was nice I could create my own schedule but also meant I would put in hours at maybe odd times. When they were younger, I wasn’t able to go to too many shows or do classes, so I focused on creating more of an online presence and perfecting my photography skills. As they have gotten older, I am able do more demos, retreats, symposiums, and so forth. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Woodturning is not something new, but what sets me apart from the others is my take, my approach, and my creativity with what I create. I take local, reclaimed hardwoods and turn them into beautiful pieces of art. I use exotic woods and burl as well. I love taking wood that would be seen by others as no good and turn it into something breathtaking that you wouldn’t think otherwise. I love playing with different embellishment styles, painting, bleaching, and carving wood. I love getting ideas for different pieces and trying different techniques. Many people love the podlets or wooden flowers I have made, I wouldn’t say I’m known for them, but that is absolutely a piece that is very requested when I’m teaching classes. I have a very distinct style, and you can tell my work apart from others. My pieces may vary in shape, size, embellishment, etc. but they all can be recognized as my work. Every day I am proud to create art that moves people, excites them, and I’m proud to be a part of the woodturning community. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.Naturalselectionstudio.com
• Instagram: Naturalselectionstudio
• Facebook: Naturalselectionstudio

Image Credits
Greg Gallegos