There’s Wood in Them Trees: The Art of Jay Hostetler

On exhibit in the Glass Display Cases from Tuesday, January 4th thru Saturday, January 29th.

"I am a lifelong resident of Athens County and I have been a woodworker most of my life. It was during my childhood that C.L. Williams, a local lumberyard owner, would return from Florida with a load of wood for my dad. To my seven-year-old self, these "Cypress Knees” looked like trees, so I took my place next to my father, a carver, and for the next few years carved trees.  For a long while, I forgot about tree carving or turning, until my partner sent me an email with pictures of some small decorative tree turnings. It was her way of leading me back to my love of woodturning, which I had neglected for many years. It worked; I began turning small trees and have found a sense of satisfaction and pleasure that comes from transforming a piece of wood into a tactile and visual object. In creating these small trees, I have found enjoyment in merging the simplicity of design with the ability to use all types of wood.  My show provides a small sampling of the many species of trees you’ll find in the Appalachian Forest, other countries, and some local vines and shrubs. I endeavor to showcase the beauty and variety of woods and trees. If these make you smile, I feel that’s enough, especially in the current world we live in." -- Jay Hostetler

Exhibit reception: Tuesday, January 11th, 6-7pm. Refreshments courtesy of the Friends of the Athens Public Library.