Zhou Jiehao & Zhai Yujia

Chinese Wood Carver

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’Technique and craftsmanship are inherently part of the creation process. To truly appreciate a piece, you need to connect with the way it’s made; only then can you fully experience its charm.‘ — Zhou Jiehao

 

Jiehao’s journey into woodworking was an unexpected twist—one that grew out of his original training in industrial design. He first took up woodworking to deepen his understanding of furniture design, but his instructor quickly saw his natural talent and invited him to apprentice. This change set him on a new path, leading to years of teaching and perfecting his craft, while developing a distinctive style in woodturning.

Today, Jiehao collaborates with his partner, Zhai Yujia, also a product designer, to breathe new life into functional woodware, adding creativity, surprise, and a touch of humor to everyday objects.

 

For Jiehao and Yujia, woodturning is thrilling and dynamic—unpredictable in a way that’s a world apart from the precision of traditional furniture-making. They’ve crafted their own unique approach, using eccentric (off-center) turning to create forms that feel fluid and alive. Each piece is shaped by rotating axes and shifts, giving their work a natural energy and flow, inviting viewers to imagine it spinning, revealing new sides at every angle. In their everyday lives, Jiehao and Yujia prioritize functionality. They believe practical objects should be durable, intuitive, and a joy to use. Testing and refining each piece to meet these standards, they blend craftsmanship with purpose, infusing everyday items with intention and artistry.