Changing Lives One Wood Chip at a Time!
Step into the world of Ernesto Aquino, where each turn of the lathe unveils stories of valor and transformation.
Recent Masterpieces
Delve into our gallery of recent works. Each piece, from pens crafted from historic battleship teak to bowls shaped from the heart of curly maple, narrates a journey of resilience and artistry.
The Heart of Warrior Oak
Our Story
Warrior Oak Woodturning, founded by Ernesto Aquino, a decorated Marine, is more than a brand—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of transformation. Ernesto’s journey began with his return from Afghanistan in 2012, leading him to discover the therapeutic power of woodturning.
The San Diego Woodturners’ Turn Around for Veterans Program was a pivotal point in his journey, shaping not just wood, but his path to recovery.
WoW embodies this spirit, transforming military scrap and reclaimed woods into pieces of history, art, and healing.
Ernesto Aquino
The Artist Behind the Craft
Ernesto Aquino’s story is one of courage, both on the battlefield and in the face of personal challenges. While on his fifth combat deployment, Ernesto was medevacked back to the U.S., where he found solace in the art of woodturning.
His approach is intuitive and respectful; he ‘lets the wood talk’, allowing each piece to shape its destiny, much like his own journey. Ernesto’s work is deeply personal, often using historic materials like World War II-era woods and teak from battleships, infusing each creation with a piece of history.
Extending beyond the lathe—Ernesto is passionate about sharing his craft with fellow veterans, offering a pathway to recovery and artistic expression.
In the Artist's Words
Discover the insights and wisdom of Ernesto Aquino. Here, Ernesto shares his reflections on overcoming challenges, the art of creation, and the healing journey of woodturning.
