I have was enveigled, into doing a crafts show this December. OK, it was more of an email, and I’ve been bored, so I’ll trot off for a day of standing behind a table hustling spoons, cutting boards, small signs, bowls, and whatever I think might fit on a single table.
So big alert, as a carver, I am something of a specialist doing nautical work. I prefer carving large ship portraits, carved copies of Antonio Jacobson portraits, hoop trays with sloops, and catboats sailing on calm seas. That’s my real love. It’s also honestly where both the challenge and money are.
But, the critical word shows up again; I get a lot of pleasure working with the hollows, sweeps, and curves that come from making attractive spoons and handsome little carved bowls. There is no stigma in enjoying more than one creative activity. In truth, I think it’s a great way to keep creatively fresh. You can become fatigued even while doing something you love.
The spoon and bowl are very forgiving. You are not tied to a prototype, and you can play with the medium within limits offered by the woodblock. Not so the Town Class sloop, Sandpiper, or portrait of a 1900’s steam yacht.
If offered a wishbone to choose, I could not choose one or the other. So I’d go in a third direction. I’ve always envied those who can do human figures and portraits. Of course, only a few of us can do everything, but that should not stop us from wishing, trying, and experimenting. Those are the basis for our next steps in our craft.
Just keep moving. It does not matter how slow you go as long as you do not stop.
Sounds cool, all the best for a successful show!
Looking good!