Over 150 art patrons and friends attended the opening of the World of Wood Exhibit, Sunday, February 29, at the Jordan River Art Center, 301 Main St., East Jordan. The exhibiting artists were in attendance and each commented about their works. Guests were encouraged to question the artists.

Overall photo of gallery patrons listening to Glen McCune describing construction of his King Island Kayak.

The uniqueness of the exhibit is in the diversity among the artist and their own use of wood. Each artist’s work is par excellent in design and craftsmanship. Each artist used a variety of woods in their specialty.

Glenn McCune’s projects were large, carved in pine, as example, “The Door,” ten feet tall with a high relief carved life sized deer. He also has on exhibition a King Island Kayak type canoe of Mahogany, Redwood, White Ash, and Bone. In direct contrast are the small movable mechanical machine parts, and machine models - all precision made by Richard Barnett. Bill Koucky’s forte is making stringed instruments. The fine Cello of Spruce and European Maple is a completed form, while there are many parts of the violin demonstrating the process of making the instrument. The “Mani Birdhouse” by multi-axis turning, four feet tall, is one of Gary Weirermiller’s objects that shows his expertise in turning wood. An entire corner of the gallery houses Ron Abfalter’s collection of fine furniture, including a chair, a screen, a wall hanging, a floor lamp and several tables. Also, an unique Pagoda bench of Antrim Co. Cherry created by Russ Courtright. There are sculptural carved objects of women forms by Walter Midener and André Poineau, yet each very different in interpretation. Finally, the carved puppets, 54 in all , by the late Edward Swoboda kept the docents busy during the opening turning the crank shaft demonstrating the movement of all at the same time.

The exhibiting artists: Left to Right, Glenn McCune, André Poineau, Russ Courtright, Ron Abfalter, Gary Weiermiller, Richard Barnett, Bill Koucky.

Refreshments were served by the Board of Directors with the Curator Peggy Midener, serving as Hostess. The exhibit will be open from 1-4 daily through March 27. For other times, and group and school tours call the Center, 231 536 3385 or Jane Diller, 231 582 6399. For other information, call Peggy Midener, 231 536 2117.

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