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Merging - AAW Annual Member Exhibition

AAW Gallery of Wood Art September 1-December 23, 2015

Merging is the organization’s 28th annual exhibition, and includes work by established and emerging artists in the woodturning field. Each artist created work specifically for this exhibition, following the theme of ‘merging’, which they were free to interpret for themselves. The theme was chosen to reflect the spirit of the city of Pittsburgh, the host city of the organization’s 29th annual international symposium. (The AAW Symposium drew more than 1,400 woodturners of all levels, as well as collectors and curators, for three days of intensive demonstrations, panels discussions, exhibitions and auctions.)
Artists in the exhibition created work exploring themes of confluence, the merging of past and present, the relationship of inner and outer forms, marriage and family, among others.
Although one might expect a sculpture show, the exhibition includes a variety of art forms. Artist Betty Scarpino carved a wood block on the lathe, which she then used to create a starkly graceful blind-embossed print. Another, Ashley Harwood, created a stunning art necklace reflecting the merging qualities of marriage.
Although the works range widely in subject matter and form, all were created at least in part on the lathe, a machine with roots reaching back to ancient Egypt. Like a pottery wheel, the lathe spins a material (usually wood) at high speeds while it is shaped by the artist or craftsperson with hand tools. After being turned, some pieces are carved, burned or scorched, colored or bleached. Woodturning’s origins are in the creation of practical objects, but like ceramics it is a field of great potential, growth, and diversity. Many major museums have established wood art collections, and both individuals and corporations are increasingly embracing wood sculptural objects for their warmth and beauty.

AAW Gallery of Wood Art | 222 Landmark Center | 75 5th St W | St. Paul, MN 55102 | 651.484.9094