Wood turner Thomas Ludlam began his career as an artist in the third grade. Instead of doing math on the worksheets that his teacher passed out in class, he drew pictures. Throughout high school and college, he branched out into watercolors, figure drawing and ceramics. Eventually, his talent for design led to a career in fine cabinetry and furniture making.

Thomas became interested in bowl turning 7 years ago in Hawaii where a master practitioner of the art form, Larry Zeidman, became a mentor. With Zeidman’s encouragement and the gift of a lathe from Thomas' father he began turning wood.

Thomas started by experimenting with exotic woods from Hawaii. In recent years he has come to appreciate the cornucopia of local woods from the Marin county landscape. From black acacia to spalted silver maple, these woods are beautifully diversified in both color and texture. Thus each bowl is a one-of-a-kind art piece.

Thomas appreciates the challenges that his work presents and the fact that there are no limitations on the forms his bowls may take. What began as a hobby has become a passion that consumes much of his time and creative energy. The lathe, he says, “whispers to me.”

Born, raised and educated in southern California, he continues to be in demand as a furniture designer and cabinetmaker whose work is showcased in many Bay Area homes and businesses.

Thomas Ludlam
P.O. Box 2223
Sausalito, CA 94966
415-990-9991