Carving Kindness

John Pillman exemplifies how a hobby can become a passion, and a passion can seamlessly blend into a life of artistic expression and community contribution. John’s journey from a high-powered executive to a dedicated woodworker is a testament to the enriching power of art.

An engineer with an MBA, John moved to Greenwood in 1996 for his work with Velux, a global skylight manufacturer with 16,000 employees, headquartered in Denmark. When he retired as President and CEO of Velux in 2019, John began to spend more time on a more hands-on pursuit: woodworking.

Introduced to the craft by his father, a pattern maker, John had dabbled in woodworking as a stress-relieving hobby throughout his career. Settling into retirement, John found joy in creating wooden toys for his grandchildren and rediscovering his sometimes hobby.

“I’m not an artist,” John humbly insists, yet his creations speak to a deep artistic sensibility. Most of his ideas come to him while he relaxes by the waterfront, sitting in a swing with a cigar and a glass of wine, savoring the tranquil moments. 

John’s work is not confined to his own enjoyment. An active member of the Greenwood Woodworkers Guild for three years, John’s pieces have been shown and sold at the Earth Into Art Exhibition, held at the Arts Center of Greenwood annually in the Spring. His contributions to charitable causes highlight his commitment to giving back to the community. For the annual “Festival of Trees” hospice fundraiser, he crafts handmade wooden Christmas ornaments, contributing to the decoration of 36 trees. 

He also participates in the Empty Bowls fundraiser for the Greenwood Soup Kitchen Ministry, creating and donating wooden bowls. Over the past 15 years, Empty Bowls has contributed more than $400,000 to feeding hungry neighbors in Greenwood, raising more than $41,000 in 2023 alone. The organization works with Greenwood Area Studio Potters and Greenwood County Medical Alliance, as well as local businesses like Main & Maxwell.

One of his most notable projects is a custom-made table for Flynn’s on Maxwell Uptown Wine and Beer. A popular local spot for live music and spirits, Flynn’s needed seating designed specifically for patrons who use wheelchairs, and John eagerly took on the task.

John’s life in Greenwood extends beyond his woodworking. He has served as president of several key organizations, including the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, the Self Regional Healthcare’s Board of Trustees, and the board of Lander University, also known for its role in community arts. These efforts have allowed him to contribute significantly to the betterment of the community he loves.

Now, John also serves on the board of the Arts Center of Greenwood, a role that aligns perfectly with his passion for the arts and his commitment to community service. He deeply appreciates the work of the Arts Center, recognizing it as a valuable asset to Greenwood, offering fine exhibit areas and enriching the cultural life of the town. In fact, his daughter chose the Arts Center as the venue for her wedding, a testament to its expanded use as a community space.

John’s wife, a talented quilter, shares his love for the arts. Their home includes three rooms dedicated to her quilts, showcasing the intricate art form. Together, they enjoy a life steeped in creativity, relaxation on the waterfront and love of fine wines.

Greenwood, with its Southern charm and strong sense of community, is the perfect backdrop for John’s endeavors. Despite his professional accomplishments, John remains rooted in humility and generosity, always looking for ways to uplift those around him. His story is an example of how the arts can be woven into the very fabric of life, transforming not just the creator but the entire community.

His work, though he modestly calls it a hobby, continues to inspire and bring people together, proving that true artistry lies in the heart and the impact it makes on others.