I just got home from attending the AAW’s annual symposium in Minnesota. This was my first time attending the national meeting, and it was a great event to meet and connect with other turners who I have only known online. I was inspired by the work that I saw in the Instant Gallery, the number of women in attendance and the welcoming and supportive community that the AAW fosters in its members. With everything that I saw, and the demos I attended, I came away with a more expansive view of what can be made with wood on a lathe, from functional objects to fine art forms.
Some presentations were about technical skills and others were about creative pursuits. I got something out of each one I attended, either box making tips or creative uses of copper applied to wood turnings. We all have different motivations for practicing this craft and I appreciate how the organization welcomes everyone to come together and learn from each other. It’s a very positive atmosphere. I should have taken more pictures.
On Saturday, my cousin met up with me and I took her around the trade show floor. With no exposure to this craft, it was a lot of fun for me to introduce her to the woodturning world. We even each got to make a pen! Ironically, I had never made a pen on the lathe before and for my cousin, it was a great first project. 10/10 would recommend.
View:
Turning 20 at Brookfield Craft Center, May 3rd - July 6th, 2025
Making Matters at Peters Valley, June 14th - August 3rd, 2025
The exhibition catalog is available for purchase through Blurb.
Shop:
Etsy - acornwoodshop
Rivertown General in Dobbs Ferry
Peters Valley Gallery and Shop in Layton, NJ
Brookfield Craft Center Gallery Shop in Brookfield, CT
Learn:
July 18th - Turn a Wooden Bud Vase at Brookfield Craft Center