THE OHIO CRAFT MUSEUM

Showcases Turned Wood Forms by Masters of the Medium and their Guests
January 31–March 28, 2010 

(Columbus, Ohio)— On view January 31–March 28, 2010, the Ohio Craft Museum’s upcoming exhibition, “Be Our Guest: A Progressive Invitational,” will showcase turned wood forms by 15 established artists and their “guests”—30 emerging artists from across the country. Featured artists include Christian Burchard, Ron Fleming, Binh Pho, Betty Scarpino, Mark Sfirri and Jacques Vesery.

Invited by master artist John Jordan, New York artist Ed Kelle discovered woodturning after more than ten years of painting and graphic design. “Nothing compares to the experience of taking a piece of wood and watching a shape develop while revealing the secrets nature has hidden in its grain,” Kelle noted. “Every piece is a new adventure and an opportunity to produce a one-of-a-kind object…. Each day at the lathe is an exciting adventure, as I push myself to develop my art further and explore new directions, while drawing on the knowledge base of all my previous life experiences.”

Please note: The opening reception will take place Sunday, February 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. At 3 p.m., participating artists J. Paul Fennell and Andi Wolfe will present a gallery talk. “Valentine Mobiles,” a Hand in Hand parent/child workshop, will also be held during the opening at the museum. From 1 to 3 p.m., children and their favorite adult will use paper hearts, string and wire to create fun kinetic sculptures to hang at home. Led by Tracy Rieger, the workshop is offered free of charge with support from Arlington Bank. Pre-registration is required. Telephone (614) 486-4402.

On Sunday, March 7, from 1 to 3 p.m., Rieger will present “Mokume Gane,” a CraftView Afternoon workshop, during which adults and teens will learn the Japanese technique of layering sheets of polymer clay to create a faux wood pendant. Fee: $12; ODC members, $10; includes materials. Space is limited. Telephone (614) 486-4402 to register.

The Ohio Craft Museum receives ongoing funding from the Ohio Arts Council, the Greater Columbus Arts Council and the Columbus Foundation. The museum is located at 1665 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43212. Hours are Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; and Saturday–Sunday, 1–4 p.m., during exhibitions only. Admission and parking are free. For further information, telephone (614) 486-4402; or see our website at www.ohiocraft.org.