Artist Statement:
Wood turning has opened many doors for me and has allowed me to meet some incredible people from all over the world. I have never considered myself to be an artist, but with the encouragement from some, and challenges from others, I have reached levels in wood turning that I never thought I would.
My current work focuses on the genre of Basket Illusion, where I am working with wood, and pyrography and color to emulate the woven baskets of the Native cultures. I look at their designs for inspiration but bring my own heart and soul into my designs. I also get ideas for designs from patterns in nature in the world around us.
I do still turn a lot of hollow form pieces, primarily using wood that has natural voids or other imperfections. I think those flaws add some challenge to the turning process, add some mystery to the turning.
Demo Info:
We'll meet at Brian Benson's shop at 2815 Anza Ave, Davis, CA on Saturday, October 4th at 9:30 am sharp. Registration is $ 25 for Nor-Cal Members and $ 35 for non-members. All are welcome. Please bring your own chair and lunch (there are no facilities nearby).
For those who are interested, there will be a hands-on class the next day, October 5th for six Nor-Cal members in Sacramento. See details here.
