Michal Fratrič is a graduate of the department of wood shaping and carving at the School of Industrial Arts in Bratislava. While studying, he also attended the studio of Peter Strassner in Devín, gradually acquiring not only practical but above all artistic knowledge. The correct authorities and models left an indelible mark on the young student during his adolescence, laying a solid foundation for his work. Already during his studies, he encountered solitary sculptural objects and seating. And he continues to develop this direction in his own work.

Among his solitary creations, we find seating of various zoomorphic shapes and forms. By using simple construction principles – joining the seat and four legs – he creates distinctive and artistically original works, often referring to imaginative animal creatures. When working with wood, he strives to explore even more archaic ways of joining wood, such as so-called self-locking joints, without the use of adhesives or screws, evoking time-tested principles. His work also displays a very sensitive approach to the material itself. With admirable respect, he adapts his designs to the natural characteristics of wood, but in the final form of the product, his own artistic expression “triumphs” over the material. He mostly obtains wood from acquaintances in gardens and orchards. These are mainly fruit trees such as plum, cherry, or pear, but his products made from walnut and linden wood are also well-known. The trace of the tool is evident and readable on many of his products. He uses “non-motorized” tools (axe, two-handed knife, spoon knife, plane, rasp, hand saw), but also modern “motorized” tools like a chainsaw. Surfaces bearing the mark of the tool alternate with clean, perfectly sanded surfaces in the final piece. For surface finishing, he uses natural oil, which emphasizes the natural grain of the wood and enhances the beauty of the material. Especially the technique of wood charring allows for interesting textures and contrasts.

In 2018, he also participated in a design competition focused on craftsmanship, Kruhy na vode. He won 3rd place for a wooden bench named Dvojhlavec, confirming his ability to transcend the boundaries of traditional production with the necessary respect and sensitivity.

In 2021, he was awarded the title Master of Folk Artistic Crafts. His work can be seen not only in the ÚĽUV stores, but also in public spaces through works from symposiums he has participated in. He also collaborates with ÚĽUV as a lecturer in Regional Craft Centers.