Michael Yarbrough (LTC, USAR, Retired) is a self-taught wood craftsman and turner. His interest in woodturning began in 2008 while stationed in the Middle East. Michael’s Dad gave Michael his first wood lathe and his degree in engineering helped Michael realize the artistic potential of wood.
Curiosity with the beauty of wood and turning became a passion. With the varieties of wood available, every project turns itself into a one of a kind treasure. The grains, the colors, and the imperfections of the wood create a work of art. Over the years, Michael has refined his technique, and sought new and more interesting artistic possibilities in wood.
Michael’s turning is a great stress reliever and allows him to artistically translate a common work piece into the sense of natural beauty encountered in day-to-day life. The seamless expression of the inner spirit through outward form is the goal for each piece.
Michael received his Mechanical Engineering Degree from Southern Polytechnic University in Marietta, GA. He later received an Under Graduate Degree in Economics and Accounting from the University of Alabama-Birmingham. Michael’s upper level education included Command and General Staff College from the United States Army and his MBA from Webster University. He was employed by Southern Liquid Natural Gas for thirty-one years and served in the United States Army Reserve forty-two years.
Michael is a member of Lowcountry Turners in Savannah, Ga. He lives in Bloomingdale, GA with his lovely wife, Joan, of forty-two years. They have two married children and four grand children.