The bowls, vases, and furniture pieces that Roger Olson creates from box elder (Manitoba maple), mayday, cherry, local poplar, and other woods reflect his deep enjoyment of working with his hands.

From the graceful lines of a spalted maple vase to the finely crafted design of a cherry and poplar table, Olson's work showcases both his craftsmanship and imagination. Classic forms of bowls and vases resonate most with him. While there is really nothing new in terms of shape—since it’s all been done before—certain forms always return because they are timeless and aesthetically pleasing. He strives to present these enduring forms in his work.

Collections:

Governor General of Canada Collection

G7 2025 (Kananaskis) Leaders’ Gifts

Private collections:  Hong Kong, United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, France, Italy, Japan, Ireland, the United States, and across Canada.

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Roger Olson is a master wood artist and cabinetmaker based in Southern Alberta. With nearly five decades of experience and a carpentry apprenticeship from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), he brings an exceptional level of skill and intuition to his craft. Beginning with woodworking conferences and tool shows in Western Canada, his career has evolved to include solo exhibitions and international recognition. His work is featured in private and public collections across the globe, including the Governor General of Canada’s Collection and the G7 2025 (Kananaskis) Leaders’ Gifts. Olson continues to create from his studio, where each piece is both a study in precision and a testament to his lifelong engagement with wood.

Roger collects and cures wood for years, with a particular focus on species native to Alberta such as Box Elder (Manitoba Maple) and Poplar. While the size, shape, and grain of the wood dictate the piece's inherent form, Roger often manipulates it in various ways to bring his unique vision to life. Many decisions are made during the turning process. Sometimes, stepping back from the lathe and taking a long look at a piece helps him discern what feels right or wrong. Even an eighth of an inch can make all the difference. He trusts his eye, knowing that new expressions often arise from challenging original ideas.

Roger had solo exhibitions at the Lethbridge Public Library and at the Galt Museum, Lethbridge (2008) and two solo exhibitions at the Willock & Sax Gallery (2001, 2006) as well as being the Gallery’s feature artist in August 2019. Early in his art practice Olson took part in Woodturning Conferences across Western Canada and the Alberta Woodworking & Tool Shows, where his work was exhibited and received high honors.

The artist lives in Southern Alberta and has worked with wood for close to 50 years.  He is a cabinetmaker by trade stemming from a four-year apprenticeship degree in carpentry from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).  He began woodturning by attending workshops given by Dr. Jim Farr.