Episode 7: Ambidexterity: A Circuitous Route to Chair Making with Duncan Ellinwood

Check out the delicately beautiful work of Duncan Ellinwood on:  Substack  Bluesky  YouTube    Summary In this engaging conversation, Kat and Kacey are joined by Duncan Ellinwood to explore the intersections of baking, woodworking, and community. Duncan shares his journey from baking to chair making, emphasizing the importance of ambidexterity in both crafts. The discussion delves into the evolution of Duncan's woodworking style, the significance of community in creative processes, and the challenges and benefits of navigating social media as a craftsman. The trio reflects on their personal experiences and the value of lateral movement in career paths, ultimately celebrating the connections formed through shared passions. In this conversation, Kat, Duncan, and Kacey explore the themes of community, personal goals, and the balance between career and personal life. They discuss the importance of grounding oneself in local communities, navigating career transitions, and defining success beyond external validation. The conversation also touches on the significance of family relationships, the beauty of ordinary life, and the creative process of documenting work through video making.   Takeaways Community engagement enhances creativity and problem-solving in crafts. Duncan's chair designs draw inspiration from historical forms and personal experimentation. The transition from social media to in-person community can be fulfilling. Lateral career movements can bring valuable skills to new fields. The importance of understanding raw materials in crafting processes. Mistakes in woodworking can lead to personal growth and learning. Social media can create a false sense of validation for creators. Building connections with others in the craft community is essential for growth. It's easy to get lost in external validation. Community helps ground personal goals. Family and relationships are vital to personal happiness. Finding beauty in the ordinary enriches life. The creative process can be as valuable as the end product. Documenting work can enhance appreciation for the craft. Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at [email protected].    Important Links: -Follow Us on Instagram -  -Follow Us on Bluesky -  - Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website - https://www.playingpossumcollective.com - Sign up for our newsletter! - https://www.playingpossumcollective.com/subscribe   Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!     Check out the Possums' individual creative endeavours. See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work!  See Jamey Hudnall’s work!