Artist Spotlight: Chuck Holt – Woodturner at Rotary Botanical Gardens’ Gift Shop

When you step into the Cottage Garden Gallery Gift Shop at Rotary Botanical Gardens, you’ll find an array of beautiful and functional creations made by local artists. One of those talented makers is Chuck Holt, a skilled woodturner whose work has been a visitor favorite for the past four to five years.

Chuck Holt, Artist

Chuck’s collection includes hollow forms, lidded bowls, cutting boards, wine bottle holders, and charcuterie boards. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted, often incorporating knots and burls to highlight the wood’s natural beauty and texture. His finishes are rooted in traditional craftsmanship, such as using French polish—a classic method of wood preservation—and even techniques like dissolving pine sap in denatured alcohol for a rich, durable finish.

Many of Chuck’s bowls are purely decorative, while others can be put to work in the kitchen, like those designed for bread making. His cutting and charcuterie boards are both beautiful and functional, designed to serve guests with style. Chuck even provides tips for care, recommending a wax coating before first use, hand-washing with mild soap, and occasional oiling to maintain the natural luster.

Chuck Holt, A Maker at Heart

When asked about his creative process, Chuck shares that his favorite part is working with his hands and watching raw wood transform into something beautiful and useful. He laughs about turning a five-pound block of wood into a finished piece while leaving four pounds of wood shavings behind on the floor. For Chuck, the process itself is deeply rewarding: “It’s relaxing and fun to see a creation from a natural product, to make pieces of wood into something interesting.”

A Longstanding Artist in the Gallery

Chuck first became part of the Gallery Gift Shop when he heard the Gardens were looking for artists to replace a few who had retired. Since then, his one-of-a-kind pieces have been enjoyed by visitors who appreciate both the artistry and the craftsmanship behind every work.

See His Work in Person

Chuck’s work makes a wonderful addition to any home—or a thoughtful gift for someone special. Be sure to stop by the Cottage Garden Gallery during your next visit to Rotary Botanical Gardens in Janesville, Wisconsin, to explore his latest creations.