29th Annual Artistry in Wood

 Main Gallery

November 18 – January 7, 2018

For twenty-nine years, the Museums of Sonoma County and the Sonoma County Woodworkers Association (SCWA) have collaborated to present Artistry in Wood, a major showcase of fine regional craftsmanship. Over the years, Artistry in Wood has evolved from a modest exhibition featuring the work of local woodworkers, into something greater. While firmly grounded in Sonoma County, Artistry in Wood has developed a broader, regional reputation, drawing participants from Sacramento, Mendocino County, San Diego, and other areas of California. It has become one of the most respected annual exhibitions of woodwork in the state.

The exhibition reflects the legacy of arts and crafts on California’s north coast, as well as the local resonance between wood and the landscape. The work in the exhibition shows strong historical and regional influences, such as the distinctive style and philosophy exemplified by the woodworking program at the College of the Redwoods in Fort Bragg, led for many years by James Krenov. Instructors and students from that program have made frequent appearances in the exhibition, both as judges and exhibitors. Beyond the more traditional forms of furniture and classic objects, Artistry in Wood is also known for work that pushes the boundaries of wood as an artistic medium.

The exhibition is evaluated by expert judges for the Best of Show as well as awards of merit. The judges for this year’s exhibition are Brian Condran, Kevin Fryer, and Josh Salesin all of whom are well known in the woodworking community. All entries are juried by the SCWA Guild.

This Exhibition is sponsored in part by the Sonoma County Woodworkers Association, Wine Country Woodturners, and the Krenov Foundation.