In 2005
I founded the Wisconsin Gourd Society. As President it has
been my
charter to encourage artists to try this new canvas, to educate
the public on the use
of gourds in art and music and to teach new artists techniques
particularly unique
to art on gourds.
Because
gourds come in various sizes and shapes, painting or creating
sculptures with them offers a special challenge to even the
most experienced artists. Painting or pyrography in the
round requires a different way of looking at placing flat
images (i.e., taken from photos) on a canvas. Creating sculptures
takes some innovation to attach
pieces, none of which are ever flat. Even simple coiling can
be a challenge. I teach
artists how to look at the canvas in a new light, to see and
create the third dimension.
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So many
people are heading back to naturals and gourds are
one of natures most versatile gifts. While most often
used in our country for art, in many cultures they are
prized for musical instruments and functional daily items like
bowls and cups. In our
diverse society in Wisconsin gourds are being used more and
more for these items.
I am a self-taught gourd artisan. My primary use for gourds
is in making musical instruments, but much of the sideline art
that I do is sculptural and functional. I tend to incorporate
items found in nature, rocks, plant pods, natural dyes in most
of my pieces. I teach gourd art at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
in Madison, Shake Rag Alley in Mineral Point, Whispering Woodlands
in Verona and offer monthly and one-on-one classes on our farm
in Blue Mounds.
Terri
will be demonstrating carving, stain/color and coiling techniques
throughout the weekend. Visitors will be encouraged to participate.
The Gourd Girl | 2099 County
Road E, Blue Mounds, WI 53517 | 608-437-1944
thegourdgirl@yahoo.com

Images © Terri Schmit |
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