Monday, August 16, 2010

Art for Thought: MCFA Presents Woodworking Demo by local craftsman, Ed Beard, this Thursday

“You find craft in art, but not always art in craft” is local craftsman Ed Beard’s mantra. Ed was born in Washington County MD, and raised in Florida. Today, he and his wife Pat, live in Greencastle - where they have a workshop together.

Ed mainly focuses on wood as a medium. “I find beauty in the woods and the wood grain,” he explains. He holds a BA from University of Florida, and learned Shaker box making from John Wilson (the accepted expert in the woodworking field).

Shaker boxes can best be described as bent-wood "pantry boxes." They were historically used to store teas, eggs and other household items. The usefulness of these boxes appealed to the Shakers and they adopted the style. Careful and graceful construction results in work that is both useful and beautiful.

Mr. Beard has been creating Shaker boxes for over 10 years. He describes the process: “I cut strips of wood, steam them and then bend them around molds which I’ve made. The bands are held together with copper tacks and the tops and bottoms are held with wooden pegs.” It is a skill that takes time to develop.

Ed sells his work at art shows and galleries, and while he does not offer lessons to adults, he does occasional work with kids in wood.

MCFA invites you to see a demonstration of Shaker Box making Thursday, August 19, at 7:00 p.m. in the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Basement located at 8 Linden Avenue, Mercersburg.

The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.

Next Art For Thought Demonstration:
Thursday, September 16, featuring Watercolor with Laura Shindle.

No comments: