The award winner: Walnut vessel with crushed mussel shell inlay.
Last fall Julie happened upon the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship’s call for entries for Maine Wood 2024, their once-every-two-year show to recognize Maine makers from all genres in artistic woodworking. The school’s Messler Gallery has exhibitions of faculty and student work throughout the year, but this is the show local makers wait two long years for and can only hope that their work is selected to be included on the list of just 24 exhibitors.
Okay, long story short: Julie submitted photos of her latest piece (she didn’t think it was worthy enough—now way, no how), she was notified that her piece was selected (I had to help her up from the floor), and her piece won TWO AWARDS at the opening reception (she’s still grinning ear to ear). She was recognized as “Best New Maker” by the show’s guest jurors and reception-goers submitted names in a ballot box and selected her piece as a co-winner (a tie) for the “People’s Choice” award. Out of eight awards presented, Julie held two of them in her hands. We had a great time meeting and chatting with so many interesting people. Congrats to all the exhibitors!
Just a few of the other amazing entries.