We have some amazing art pieces made out of wood in the Biddin’ for the Seven online auction.
I have been waiting since October to share three pieces created by retired biologist and woodturner Keith Welsh. He donated them for the Out of the Box auction last fall, but we received them a bit too late to include, so I’ve been hanging on to them and admiring them ever since. I really can’t decide which one I like the most. What do you think?
Brown Mallee
Brown Mallee is an Australian burl wood. The dish is 8″ in diameter. Woodturning artist Keith Welsh’s intent is to highlight the nature of wood by taking fallen trees that would normally be burned or thrown away and turn them into art.
New Orleans Pride
New Orleans Pride shows the influence of the French in the culture of Louisiana represented by a fleur-de-lis – also the symbol of the New Orleans Saints. The painted and intricately carved wooden vase is 7″ tall and 3.75″ in diameter.
I have a big appreciation for New Orleans after spending some time in the area after Hurricane Katrina. I think it’s perfect that this piece was a collaborative effort by several artists lending their personal touches to make this vase delicate and strong at the same time.
Out of Africa
The cheery wood used to make this sturdy 8.25″ tall and 5.5″ diameter wooden vase by Keith Welsh is almost mesmerizing. The animals depicted on the vase are the perfect compliment to the natural grain of the wood.
Handpainted Barstool 1
Have I mentioned that we have some amazingly talented volunteers?! This 29″ saddle style wood barstool was hand painted by volunteer Stephanie Perciful.
Not only does Stephanie have a natural artistic gift, she has a gift of throwing some of the most squeak-inducing parties for the chimpanzees at the sanctuary. Burrito loves her for it. The fun bonus to this beautiful barstool is Stephanie included a hidden chimpanzee somewhere in the design. I can’t wait to see guests at Sippin’ for the Seven looking for the chimp! This is one of two barstools by Stephanie that will be available for bidding.
Nine Lives – A Child’s Rocking Chair
I love that artist Jana Clark entitled this 29″ child-size wooden rocking chair “Nine Lives.” Most of my most treasured possessions had multiple lives before ending up with me. Jana was able to bring this little rocking chair back to life while maintaining its storied past.
The artist Jana and her husband Bill are good friends with Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest founder Keith LaChappelle and early financial supporters of Keith’s dream to create a home for rescued chimpanzees.
Even if you’re not able to attend Sippin’ for the Seven next Saturday to see all of the amazing art pieces in person, you can register for the online auction and bid til your heart’s content from March 24-26th. Good luck!
