Check Out Ken Choronzuk’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ken Choronzuk.

Hi Ken, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have been a professional photographer for the better part of 40 years. I studied photography and art at “The American Academy of Art” in Chicago. I graduated in 1986 and had the good fortune to begin a successful commercial photography career that started in Chicago and continued with my move to Phoenix. In 1992, I returned to Chicago where I married my wife, Maria. Shortly after, the industry shifted, and I lost my studio job. As a result, I started working for a carpenter friend doing some general house remodeling. This sparked my woodworking interest. I began building fireplace mantels on commission. With this, I invested in new tools and expanded my knowledge. The numerous commissions over the years have allowed me to build a shop that I am very proud of, even if it does reside in a two-car garage. While small, it’s very efficient and I have made room to grow as evident with my recently purchased CNC. I’ve always been interested in technology and learning to operate this high-end tool was a fun challenge. My commitment to learning has propelled me to improve my process and grow my skills. While mostly self taught, I rely heavily on my artistic background to create my projects for myself or others. I love the design process and working with clients.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While the path has not been a smooth one, I’ve enjoyed the experiences of my efforts. Financial struggles as an artist have been a reality. Unfortunately the job market does not seem to value the creatives or their departments. But I have invested in my continued education by trial and error working out solutions to ideas along the way. The successes in learning new skills, whether it be a new tool or software have been rewarding. And, as a result, I’ve expanded my toolbox of skills, and created a wealth of experience while developing my one-of-kind custom pieces.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a photographer and woodworker, but not always in that order. In my woodworking life I will take on any type of new challenge. In fact I love projects that require me to think of creative solutions. I am best known for my cabinetry, anything from new and complete kitchen designs to small custom pieces. But, I am most proud of and what sets me apart from others — my design ability. I absolutely love the design process and I believe that stems from my art background and schooling. I see a lot of woodworking pieces out there that do not really celebrate the design and while they may be crafted very well they don’t really catch your eye in an artistic way.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I do not hesitate to try different techniques or take on new challenges, but I wouldn’t call myself a risk taker. I’ve always wanted to have the ability to jump head first into a new full-time profession of cabinet and furniture making. But instead I’ve played it safe by having a dual career as both woodworker and photographer. I truly admire people that are fearless and will make that jump into something new. We need more of those people in this world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kenchoronzuk.com/woodworking
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creative_woodworking_
• Other: https://www.creativewoodworking.us

Image Credits
Sophia Choronzuk (portrait)
Ken Choronzuk (body of work)