His talent first caught public attention when he was seen carving a massive tree trunk into a custom chair destined for an eco-lodge. The intricate workmanship demonstrated his ability to turn raw timber into functional works of art.
A university degree is often seen as a gateway to office employment, but for Peter Picasso, it became a tool to refine a passion he had nurtured long before graduating. Today, the graphics design and animation graduate is earning recognition for transforming hardwood into bespoke furniture and artistic wood pieces.
Picasso recently completed an eight-seater dining table crafted entirely from mahogany timber after three weeks of detailed carpentry work. The custom-made piece reflects a growing demand for durable, handcrafted furniture as more customers seek locally made products over mass-produced alternatives.
His journey into professional carpentry began shortly after completing his university education. Rather than pursuing a conventional office career, Picasso returned to what he describes as his first love—working with wood.
“I had always wanted to be a carpenter,” he said, explaining that his graphics design background helps him create unique wood products by combining creativity with traditional craftsmanship.
His talent first caught public attention when he was seen carving a massive tree trunk into a custom chair destined for an eco-lodge. The intricate workmanship demonstrated his ability to turn raw timber into functional works of art.
Since then, Picasso has continued to expand his portfolio. One of his early commissioned pieces featured the words “KEEP HOPE ALIVE” carved into wood. The artwork attracted widespread admiration on social media and led to additional commissions, including a large wooden school badge inscribed with the motto “I SERVE.”
Those projects helped establish his reputation as a skilled artisan capable of producing tailor-made furniture, decorative pieces and custom wood installations.
For his latest project, the client, Spokesperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Julius Muchunguzi visited Picasso’s workshop opposite Kebba Express Hotel along Entebbe Road with sample photographs and specific design preferences. The request was for a solid mahogany dining table that would showcase the strength, beauty and durability of Uganda’s hardwood, rather than lightweight plywood alternatives.
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Muchunguzi has posted on his X handle saying that “Over the following three weeks, the project took shape through careful measuring, carving, sanding and finishing until the final product was ready for delivery.”
The success of Picasso’s business highlights the growing importance of vocational and technical skills in Uganda’s economy. As demand for customised furniture continues to rise, skilled artisans are creating sustainable livelihoods while adding value to locally available timber.
For customers seeking tailor-made wooden furniture or bespoke wood products, Peter Picasso can be contacted on +256 705 157266 (WhatsApp) or +256 782 166835.
