Inspiring the Next Generation of Woodturning Craftsmen
February 14th – February 16th, 2025, Lakeland FL
This annual event is dedicated to sharing and promoting the art and craft of woodturning by holding multiple informative workshops, exhibits from renowned woodturners and an extensive expo of vendors.
This year the Florida Woodturning Symposium, in conjunction with the RP Funding Center, will add a field trip to the symposium for students from the Construction Academies of the Polk County School System. Construction Academy students from Bartow, Tenoroc, Ft. Meade and Roosevelt high schools will attend a demonstration, visit the instant gallery of turned art and tour the vendor area. At these schools, students receive hands-on experience in construction, gaining precision and problem-solving skills directly applicable to real-world careers. Academy students regularly compete and win at state and national construction competitions. At the end of their studies, students take certification tests from the Home Builders Institute.
Woodturning is more than a craft; it is also an art form. It can offer students a creative outlet, allowing them to express artistic ideas while developing fine motor skills and attention to detail. Woodturning encourages innovation and craftsmanship, teaching patience and the value of working with one’s hands. These experiences help foster a sense of accomplishment and self-expression, making woodturning an ideal avenue for students seeking both artistic expression and personal growth.
The Florida Woodturners in conjunction with Polk County schools and the RP Funding Center want to promote the art of woodturning as a skill for all ages. The symposium is an opportunity to expose and increase interest in woodturning. As with any craft, woodturning provides a wealth of benefits for the youth that are interested, both in the short and long term. Of the four high schools planning to attend, the probable number of participants will be between 75 to 85 students.
The 2025 symposium promises to be a transformative educational opportunity that empowers the current and next generation of creators, makers, and artisans.
The following demonstrators will be there:
2025 Lineup
National Demonstrators
Kip Christensen
Phil Irons
Seri Robinson
Donna Zils – Banfield
Regional Demonstrators
Regional Demonstrators
James McClure
Ron Browning
Bill Dalton
Don Geiger
SHOW HOURS
Friday, Feb. 14th: 8am – 7pm
Saturday, Feb. 15th: 8am – 7pm
Sunday, Feb, 16th: 7am – 3pm
Please confirm show dates and times before attending.
Show cost
$50 – $250
Show location
RP FUNDING CENTER
701 W Lime St
Lakeland FL 33815
Venue website: https://rpfundingcenter.com