Artist Kristin LeVier is a former molecular biologist who creates work at the intersection of art, nature and science to remind us of our connection to the breathtaking spectacle of the natural world. Her organic carved and bent wood sculpture embodies an ethereal sense of motion. She spoke about her work in a TEDx talk on The Art of Science and in a PBS short feature. Her work has been exhibited widely and featured in books and magazines such as American Craft and American Woodturner. She teaches craft and design at symposia and craft schools including Anderson Ranch, Arrowmont and the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship. Her studio is nestled among stunning rolling hills in Moscow, Idaho.
Adding Sculptural Elements to Your Turnings
Learn methods for seamlessly adding sculptural elements to your turnings using simple joinery and carving techniques. Kristin will demonstrate how she creates curved appendages that emerge from turned objects and makes secure attachments for the leaves and feathers that wrap around her pieces. We’ll touch on design and modeling methods that allow you to create your most successful sculptural work.
Bending Wood Without Steam: Introduction to Compressed Hardwood
Compressed hardwood is regular hardwood that has undergone a treatment involving steam and compression, allowing it to be bent by hand while at room temperature. This amazing wood can be turned or added to woodturned objects to stunning effect. Kristin has been using compressed wood for 15 years and shares a trove of techniques and lessons learned.
Introduction to Micromotor Power Carving
If you’ve been curious about power carving but didn’t know where to start or what to buy, this session is for you. Topics covered will include: safety, types of carving, micromotor units (available brands, how to use), carving burrs, wood choices, and technique.
