Phil Cottell writes. “In 1997, I retired from my work in forestry research and development, and our family moved from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. There, the notion of woodturning gradually emerged (something I had last done in high school, but remembered enjoying). 
And, combined with carving, colouring and pyrography, this interest developed into a sort of avocation. My objective became to transform mainly found local woods into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects — vessels like bowls and vases, platters, plaques — and to achieve, on occasion, things of some artistic beauty.”
“Over the past 12 years, I’ve attended many seminars and courses, gaining insights from some of the world’s premiere woodturning artists. I have also participated regularly in Community Arts Council events (Studio Tours, Sidney Fine Arts Show) on the Saanich Peninsula, and for five successive years had pieces accepted for the Sooke Fine Arts Show.”
“Most of my raw material is salvaged from locally grown native tree species (e.g., maple, yew, arbutus, Garry Oak, Alder, Red and Yellow cedar, Douglas-fir, hemlock). 
The Wood Recovery Program of the Vancouver Island Woodworkers Guild, of which I’m a member, has been a reliable source. One of my memorable mentors said “Turn what grows in your back yard!” — so that’s what I tend to do. ”
“The Island Woodturners Guild, and smaller local woodturner groups, have been of immeasurable support for materials, tools, techniques –and inspiration. While most of my activity is solitary, I enjoy collaborative projects with Parksville woodcarver Barri Hearn, and with Coast Salish artist Chris Paul of Tsartlip. Barri carves delicate wildlife/nature themes on my turned bowls, platters and wall plaques. Chris draws traditional and contemporary Salish spindle whorl designs on discs that I prepare; we then carve them together.”
“In 2008, our family moved from North Saanich to Brentwood Bay, where I built a dedicated workshop/studio. It’s operational, although not yet fully organized, and is a pleasant, productive space to inhabit.”
“I’ve greatly enjoyed the relationship with Nigel and Sue Hayes at Side Street Studio since the time it opened under their ownership, and look forward to being part of their new venture at their second location in Victoria.”
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