knock on wood

the timeless significance of
wood in human culture

Throughout history, wood has held a special place in our lives. It is more than a mere practical material; it symbolizes tradition and history, acts as a link between humans and nature, and serves as a canvas for craftsmanship that helps us rediscover our fundamental selves.

Even in our language, we uphold the tradition of “knocking on wood” to invoke good luck and ward off misfortune. This age-old ritual reflects the profound respect and bond that humans have with wood, recognizing it as a symbol of protection and positivity.

The relationship between people and wood is deeply rooted in our existence. From ancient times to the present, wood has been used in a wide variety of applications, from providing shelter and transportation to being a canvas for art and music, as well as for crafting paper and designing furniture, among countless other uses. Wood connects us to the natural world, providing warmth and security and inspiring us to create beautiful, ritual and useful objects.

As emphasized by our panel of speakers during our ‘Wood Matters’ discussion, working with wood by hand brings us closer to our inner selves. Touching wood provides a unique sensory experience that helps us truly understand it as a material. But it doesn’t stop there. Artist Cengiz Hartmann mentioned the German word ‘begreifen’, which means both “to touch” and “to understand” – a way of thinking with the hands. Cengiz highlighted how wood can connect us with our essence, our inner being, and provide us with fundamental understanding.

When we shape, carve, or work with wood using our own hands, we can step away from distractions and reconnect with our core selves. The hands-on experience of working with wood engages our senses and brings a sense of satisfaction, which is essential in our fast-paced lives. Manual woodworking becomes the ultimate mindfulness practice, offering a serene refuge from the hustle and bustle of the digital age.

In summary, wood’s timeless significance in human culture cannot be overstated. As we continue to knock on wood for good luck and find solace in crafting with wood, let us not forget the profound relationship we share with this remarkable living material – a bridge that connects us to the essence defining our collective human identity.

talk: wood matters

woodworking as a means to reconnect with our origins

Speakers

Anders Lunderskov
Cengiz Hartmann
Didi NG Wing Yin
Emmanuel Babled

Moderator

Veerle Devos

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