This year marks the 18th year that the Big Island Woodturners have been displaying their art at an annual exhibit. I have attended the last nine, and each year, think, “Well, they have outdone themselves again.” Wrong. The pieces continue to get more creative and jaw-dropping.
Woodturning is the art of creating wooden objects on a lathe. The wood is moving while a tool is used to cut and shape it.
“We’re having a good turnout again at the exhibit,” said Gene Short, a longtime member. I loved Short’s whimsical “Cyclops Hangover,” turned from Norfolk Pine. “It’s fun to see what the people respond to,” he added as attendees gathered around the displays.
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It is hard to believe the pieces are all turned from wood, such as Alex Franceschini’s “Red Moon” (in Lychee, Mango, and Norfolk Pine) or Doug Keown’s “A Little Fishy” (Jacaranda/Inks). Some are so beautiful and delicate, you would swear they were made from glass or ceramic. I was also charmed by this year’s displays of miniatures.
While some pieces had practical uses (bowls, lamps, pens), others were sheer art; some were a great mix of both.
Woods used ranged from Koa, Norfolk Pine, Tamarind, Lychee, Hau, and Mango, but that list is just a sampling.
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The club collects no dues – the only requirement is participation.
Catalogs are available for those wishing to purchase; there is also an online auction.
On Saturdays, demonstrations are held, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
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The Big Island Woodturners 18th Annual Exhibition will be held at the Wailoa Center in Hilo through March 31. Exhibit opens at 8:30 a.m. and runs until 4:30 p.m. (closed Sundays). Free.
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