This marquetry class in Georgia was held at a rather unique woodworking store, called Peachtree Woodworking Supply Inc. It has an online presence, an outlet for selling quality tools and supplies for the novice to experienced woodworker. A roomy and well laid out classroom, with a media center that worked very well. The owners support the local club and promote the use of the classroom for demonstrations and seminars, much like the one I conducted. The astonishing thing I have noticed over the years that the students seem to progress faster, creating better designs and doing more complex and projects that you will see in the following pics. I do not think it is because I am doing anything really different, other than distilling the technique down, focusing on the people that need the most guidance, but everybody seems to get it, and it shows. The expectations are higher the more I teach, both from student in regards to the teacher, as well as from teacher to student. The rough belt sanding of the finished veneer is quite fun, sort of like carving with dynamite. It goes quickly, and we only suffered one burn-through, that we were able to fix. All in all, it went well, and I have yet again made more competition for myself, a seemingly a favorite pastime of mine.
Here is a nice note from a student that said it all form his perspective…
Hello Paul,
Thank you very much for all your efforts (both in preparation and from 8-5 each day!) in putting together a wonderful learning experience for us at the GWA Marquetry class in Atlanta. I feel as though I’ve passed through a portal into a new world. All the promise I hoped for leading up to the class was realized by the end of the week. Going forward, I feel very confident I will truly elevate my work to the level I dream it can be.
My biggest impression from the class was the space to complete two panels. The first panel – one to break the ice and just get going – was incredibly liberating for me. It’s informing to sit and watch DVDs, but pushed to use that knowledge in class was the kick in the pants I needed. My second attempt of the portrait of my great-grandfather turned into a design exercise which has prompted lots of contemplation. I think about the complexity of Silas’ faces (which my second panel failed to emulate) and contrast that complexity with a vision of simplicity and efficiency I strive for in my work. I see the distance I have yet to travel, but I’m excited to head there by learning how to render a portrait with an elegance of my own. Stay tuned for updates.
Again- thanks much for a great week, for “filling the gaps” of questions prompted by the DVDs, and for demonstrably caring about your students’ progress.
Best,
e
