Spring In The Studio
There is so much energy in the spring time as we welcome warmer weather and see new plants, flowers and budding trees. We have had a year of isolation and lockdown with Covid 19 but there is hope as numbers decrease and vaccines become widely available.
Our studio hasn’t been open to the public except for curbside pickup but I have been busy in the workshop. I used my time wisely as I sorted through my burls and stock of wood. I had pleasant surprises when I uncovered hidden beautiful burls in my studio. I also found a large number of cherry blanks and turned many sizes of salad bowls. This selection gives choices of a small salad bowl for one or a large salad for a gathering of family and friends. It’s been a hard year but one with time to be creative and productive.
A number of people have come by for hand-turned pieces and I was able to set up a table outside, with distance and masks so they could safely choose one. I also had cottagers bring me burls from downed trees on their property and I turned very special bowls that will remain in the family.
Last week I took a number of bowls, platters and tables to the Algonquin Art Centre and I am happy to tell you, they will open on June 14th. The art gallery was closed in 2020 so this is wonderful news. The theme of this year’s exhibit is “The Spirit of the Group of Seven” and they explore and celebrate the spirit that moved the famous artists to find inspiration in Algonquin Park. I hope you will drive into the park to experience nature and enjoy this fabulous gallery.
I am also participating in the 1st Annual Huntsville Art Crawl. This self-guided tour of downtown Huntsville features local artists, galleries and businesses with demos and interactive experiences. My work will be displayed in The Wooden Penny. The fate of our Artists of the Limberlost Studio Tour is still in question as there is still no clear direction about indoor events.
Our year of isolation has made us even more aware of the value of natural art in our lives and we have had calls about wedding gifts, retirement presents, housewarming gifts and a bowl for Father’s Day. I encourage you to call me at 705-635-3190 if you would like to purchase a bowl, platter or table. We can arrange an appointment for you to visit or ship you the piece of your choice.
This disctinctive Maple Burl Bowl has a rough raw edge, complex figuring and bark inclusions. 11” round x 2.75” deep, $250.
I discussed how this bowl was made in a video for the Huntsville Art Crawl. The video will be shown with my art at The Wooden Penny at 84 Main Street E, Huntsville.
“Shimmering Pool” a Yellow Birch Burl Bowl is part of the “Spirit of the Group of Seven” exhibit at the Algonquin Art Centre. $400 13 x 11.5 x 3.25 deep
