Overview: Mike Sorge is an American woodturner based in Middlebrook, Virginia, known for his innovative and dynamic designs. His work combines natural forms with artistic precision, drawing inspiration from multicultural studies and timeless wisdom to create elegant, uplifting craftsmanship.
Full Bio:
Mike Sorge began his journey into woodturning in the fall of 2009 after a career in national sales and marketing. Following a weekend introductory class, Mike fell in love with the craft and established a lathe studio in his home. He joined the Central Ohio Woodturners (COW) and produced over 1,000 bowls in his first year, experimenting with bold winged shapes and natural edge forms.
Mike’s unique approach to turning larger, unconventional forms quickly gained attention. After demonstrating his methods at COW, seasoned woodturners expressed both amazement and concern for the risks involved in his creative techniques. Their feedback encouraged Mike to refine his craft further, earning him recognition as a leader in the woodturning community. His work embodies Napoleon Hill’s philosophy: “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.”
Now based in Middlebrook, Virginia, Mike has been invited to teach and demonstrate his methods at chapter clubs of the American Association of Woodturners. He focuses on sharing the technical and safety aspects of turning large winged forms, such as his signature "Big Air" designs, inspiring both novice and experienced woodturners.
Mike’s design philosophy is deeply influenced by multicultural studies, drawing on ancient and contemporary wisdom to inform his work. He channels these inspirations into timeless, innovative forms that uplift and energize viewers, exploring concepts that resonate across cultures and generations.
Through his artistry, Mike Sorge continues to push the boundaries of woodturning, creating pieces that are both functional and profoundly inspiring.